We had the good fortune of connecting with Maxine YuLing Zhou and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maxine YuLing, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
For me, being artistic or pursuing a creative career infuses my life with vitality. I believe that our world, the spaces we inhabit, greatly benefit from good aesthetics and art. Elevated aesthetics can enhance life’s joy and quality. For instance, after moving into a small apartment, I found that beautiful furniture and paintings make my living space more exquisite and comfortable. Similarly, as an advertising designer, I aspire for my imaginative ideas to effectively convey the essence of products to the public. Art is essential to life, and I am passionate about creating it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a young girl, my parents often discovered me engrossed in sketching on a pad of paper late into the night. Concerned, they’d inquire, “What’s troubling you?” I’d glance up guiltily, but in truth, nothing was amiss; I simply reveled in every moment of drawing, never wishing to pause.

My passion for drawing stemmed from its ability to connect me with the world around me. I’d often sit in serene contemplation, watching the sun dip below the horizon. Whenever I encountered something captivating or poignant, I’d painstakingly sketch it, aiming to capture even the tiniest of nuances. Observing the lives of others fascinated me deeply; just recently, I found myself capturing the tender scene of a marriage proposal. These practices of observation and sketching form the bedrock of both my work and my life, as I strive not only to entertain viewers but to evoke emotions and tell stories through my creations.

My creative process follows a somewhat conventional path. Initially, I let ideas bounce around in my mind, honing in on one that resonates. Occasionally, I draw inspiration from the works of esteemed artists like Yayoi Kusama, known for her innovative fusion of geometric patterns and natural environments. Once I’ve settled on a compelling concept, I ask myself probing questions: “What message do I wish to convey? Will this be a standalone piece, or should I expand it into a series?” Armed with clarity, I gather my materials and begin the transformative journey of bringing the images from my mind into tangible form. Finally, as I near completion, I open myself to feedback from others, selectively incorporating suggestions into my work while maintaining the integrity of my vision. Each piece is deeply personal, a reflection of my innermost thoughts and emotions.

As a 3D animator and illustrator, I bring a diverse array of skills and experiences to the creative table. Through my art, I endeavor to craft captivating visual narratives that transport viewers to distant realms and ignite their imaginations.

In my role as a 3D animator, I am tasked with breathing life into visual concepts for various projects. This demands a blend of technical prowess and creative flair as I translate the vision of directors or creative teams into immersive three-dimensional representations. Proficient in software tools like Autodesk Maya and Blender, I am adept at creating dynamic animations that captivate audiences and enhance storytelling.

As an illustrator, my goal remains unchanged: to create artwork that not only tells a story but also captures the essence of the subject matter. Whether working in digital, traditional, or mixed media, I approach each piece with a deep sense of curiosity and a passion for storytelling.

Through my work as both a 3D animator and illustrator, I have cultivated a strong sense of visual storytelling and an ability to bring ideas to life in a visually compelling manner. I am committed to pushing the boundaries of my craft, continually seeking out new techniques and approaches to expand my skill set and tackle new challenges. I am excited to continue growing and evolving as an artist in these dynamic fields.

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.
My favorite spot in the city is the vibrant Chelsea area of New York. Nestled within its bustling streets lies a gem that never fails to captivate me: the Chelsea Market. Stepping into this vintage-looking, artsy market feels like entering a portal to a bygone era, where creativity thrives in every corner. From quaint arts and crafts stalls to gourmet food vendors, the market buzzes with an eclectic energy that is both invigorating and inspiring.

Adjacent to the market stands the Whitney Museum of American Art, a beacon of creativity and innovation. With its thought-provoking exhibitions and diverse collections, the museum offers a window into the rich tapestry of American artistic expression.

But perhaps what I love most about the Chelsea area is its proximity to the enchanting Little Island. Tucked away along the Hudson River, this whimsical oasis invites visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature’s embrace. Strolling along its winding pathways, surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views of the city skyline, is a tranquil experience like no other.

And what better way to conclude a day of exploration than with a sweet treat? Just a stone’s throw away from Little Island lies Aubi and Ramsa, an alcohol-infused ice cream bar that serves up delectable frozen delights with a twist. Indulging in a scoop of their signature flavors while basking in the serene beauty of Little Island is the perfect finale to a day spent indulging in art, culture, and culinary delights in the heart of Chelsea.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my parents, whose unwavering support has been my anchor throughout this journey. Their belief in me has been a constant source of strength and confidence, allowing me to reach where I am today. I am deeply grateful for their endless encouragement and love, which mean the world to me and have been the foundation of my achievements.

Additionally, I want to extend my gratitude to all the animals in the world. They bring so much beauty and inspiration into our lives. A special shoutout goes to my dog, Picasso, who has been a profound source of inspiration for my art. His playful spirit, unconditional love, and unique personality have fueled my creativity and filled my days with happiness. He is truly my muse, and I owe much of my artistic expression to the joy he brings into my life.

In essence, both my parents and my dog have been instrumental in my journey, and I am incredibly thankful for their presence and influence.

Website: https://maxineyulingzhou.com

Instagram: maxineyulingzhou

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/yuling-zhou-471473182

Other: Email : maxinezhou515@gmail.com

Image Credits
/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.