Meet Qianying Zhu | Jewlery Designer & Atrist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Qianying Zhu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi qianying, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I chose to pursue an artistic career because it’s been a constant passion that has evolved with me throughout my life.
My name is Qianying Zhu, and I also go by Rachel. I studied jewelry design for my undergrad and metalsmithing for my master study, but my journey with art started much earlier. Growing up in an art-loving family, I was influenced by my grandfather, a well-known painter. Thanks to him, I developed a love for drawing and crafts early on.
As a child, I’d take a sketchbook with me on family hiking trips, capturing scenes from nature. I also spent hours happily molding clay and creating with modeling materials. Back then, my biggest dream was to design and build a little world filled with tiny monster characters of my own. Alongside my grandfather, I learned about traditional Chinese art forms—like ceramics, seal carving, and the art of Zisha pottery—which helped me develop an appreciation for craftsmanship and attention to detail. In middle school, I discovered handmade jewelry and began experimenting with creating my own pieces, which ultimately led me toward choosing this as my field.
By the time I graduated high school, I was sure that jewelry design was what I wanted to pursue, so I went on to study it at the Savannah College of Art and Design. Afterward, I continued my education at Cranbrook Academy of Art to deepen my skills in metalworking and expand my understanding of artistic concepts.
I’m incredibly grateful for the support my family has given me in following this path, allowing me to turn my passion into a fulfilling career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art journey has been a personal transformation, guiding me from a place of uncertainty to one of contentment and creative exploration. For a long time, I struggled with restlessness and self-doubt, constantly seeking an ideal future version of myself that felt unreachable. I’d often change my style and compare my work to others, never feeling fully satisfied. This internal conflict drained my energy and blurred my focus on the present.
But as I committed to creating art, I experienced a powerful shift. Designing jewelry, sketching, and experimenting with materials became ways for me to slow down, reflect, and immerse myself in the details of life. When I’m in that creative flow, all the inner noise fades, and I feel deeply connected to the world around me. The act of making art became like a meditation, helping me find joy in the present instead of worrying about the future or dwelling on insecurities. It’s through this process that I learned to embrace life’s imperfections and see beauty in the unexpected.
Jewelry design, in particular, has become my way to express these moments of calm, joy, and self-discovery. I aim to capture that warmth and positivity in each piece, so when others encounter my work, they, too, can feel that sense of connection.
My brand, Zoo Zoo Jewelry, is inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese zodiac, which I reinterpret in fresh, playful ways to make it relatable for a modern audience. Moving from China to the U.S. in my teens, I’ve experienced a blend of cultures, which I love bringing into my designs. The zodiac became a natural fit, with its symbolism in time, identity, and transformation.
Through Zoo Zoo Jewelry, I’m also embracing the chance to bridge cultural connections and bring elements of Chinese heritage, like the zodiac, into the world of fashion jewelry. In 2024, I launched a new collection focused on a modernized zodiac and pearls, and I’m currently working on a 2025 line that will blend zodiac symbols with jade, honoring tradition while adding a contemporary flair.
The journey has been challenging, but it’s taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of staying true to my creative vision. Each piece I create is a part of my story, reflecting my growth, my cultural experiences, and my passion for making art that resonates with others. Through my work, I hope to share these meaningful connections and inspire others to find beauty in life’s small moments, just as I have.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Since I recently visited my friend near Los Angeles, one place I’d absolutely recommend is Runyon Canyon. As someone who loves hiking and the outdoors, Runyon Canyon is the perfect spot to recharge and get a different perspective on the city. It’s not only a popular trail but also offers some of the best views of LA and a great chance to soak up the California sunshine.
I recommend starting with an early hike to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise over the city. The main loop offers an incredible view of downtown LA, the Hollywood Sign, and even the ocean on a clear day. The morning light really makes the whole landscape glow and gives you a sense of calm above the city.
Once we’ve completed the loop, we could head to a nearby cafe in West Hollywood for a well-deserved brunch. There are tons of health-focused spots where we could grab something fresh and energizing.
Runyon Canyon offers a mix of natural beauty and classic LA vibes, making it one of my favorite spots for recharging and escaping the hustle. It’s the perfect way to reconnect with nature.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a huge shoutout to my family, who have always supported my passion for art without any hesitation. They’ve encouraged me through every step of my journey, and their belief in me has been my strongest foundation. I also owe so much to my high school art teacher, who not only saw potential in me but also nurtured it. She encouraged me constantly and offered invaluable guidance when I was figuring out my college path, helping me see where I could go with my art.
My gratitude extends to my college professors as well. They taught me so many foundational techniques in metalworking, giving me the skills and confidence I needed to grow as a jewelry designer. And, of course, I’m incredibly grateful to my graduate mentor for the insights and guidance they’ve provided. Each of these people has shaped my journey and helped me become who I am today, and I couldn’t have reached this point without their encouragement, knowledge, and support.

Website: https://www.qyzhu-jewelry.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/qyz_zhu/

Image Credits
Qianying Zhu