We had the good fortune of connecting with Luying Wang and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Luying, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because of my unwavering passion for storytelling and my deep desire to connect with people on an emotional level. From a young age, I found solace and inspiration in the world of cinema and the power of visual storytelling. I was captivated by the ability of films to transport audiences to different worlds, evoke a range of emotions, and spark meaningful conversations. As I embarked on my filmmaking journey, I realized the immense potential of storytelling as a medium for social change and advocacy. I wanted to use my creativity to shed light on the lives and experiences of underrepresented communities, giving a voice to those whose stories might otherwise remain untold. My commitment to portraying diverse perspectives, especially from a female point of view, fueled my determination to pursue a career in filmmaking.
It is my unwavering passion for crafting authentic, thought-provoking narratives that motivates me to continue on this artistic path, using cinema as a powerful tool to bring diverse stories to life and make a lasting difference.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Certainly, I’d be delighted to share more about my artistic journey and what sets me apart in this vibrant world of filmmaking. What truly sets my work apart is my steadfast commitment to portraying diverse and authentic stories from a unique female perspective. I believe that every voice deserves to be heard, and I’ve made it my mission to shine a light on narratives that often go unnoticed. I take pride in crafting emotionally resonant characters who come alive on screen. From the elderly Chinese immigrant in “Drifting Boat” to the PTSD-stricken female soldier in “Where the Flowers Bloom” and the young woman finding healing in “When Wind Meets Cloud,” each character represents a different facet of the human experience.
My path to this point has been both challenging and deeply fulfilling. I’ve encountered obstacles that tested my resolve, but each setback fueled my determination to grow. Collaborating with a passionate team has been instrumental in overcoming challenges and pushing creative boundaries. I’ve learned that setbacks are stepping stones to progress and that resilience is key to success in this industry.
My story revolves around the transformative power of storytelling. I want the world to know that my films aren’t just entertainment; they’re catalysts for change. By exploring the human experience and challenging societal norms, I aim to inspire empathy, bridge cultures, and spark meaningful conversations. As I continue on this journey, my goal is to create films that leave a lasting impact, pushing the boundaries of cinema while amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Since we are in golden California, I’ll certainly take my bestie to the beach to enjoy the sunset and catch some waves while surfing. I’ll also introduce them to the studio where I work and take them hiking in the surrounding area.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely, diving into this journey, there are several individuals and sources of inspiration that have played pivotal roles in shaping my path as a filmmaker. First and foremost, I want to dedicate this shoutout to my family. Their unwavering support and belief in my creative aspirations have been the cornerstone of my journey. From the very beginning, they encouraged me to pursue my passion and stood by me through the highs and lows of this challenging industry.
As I journeyed through my academic years at Chapman Dodge College, I was fortunate to be surrounded by a passionate community of fellow filmmakers. It was during this time that I met my mentor, Thomas Harris, whose guidance throughout my formative years helped shape my artistic vision and refine my skills as a director. Additionally, I had the privilege of connecting with my go-to Cinematographer, Haobang Geng, whose remarkable talent consistently pushes me to elevate my craft and think beyond boundaries.
Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm11310001/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wangluyinghome/