Meet Mingxin Cheng | Graphic Designer & Illustrator & Animator

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

Hi Mingxin, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Growing up in Shanghai, China, I was profoundly influenced by my grandfather, an optimistic man who gave me all his love. His encouragement allowed me to explore various forms of self-expression, be it through words, music, or drawings.

Music, in particular, played a pivotal role in inspiring my art. The abstract nature of musical expression allowed me to delve into the depths of my emotions and feelings, teaching me to perceive the world in a profoundly sensory way. I believe that we are born as blank pages, and it’s the people we surround ourselves with, the relationships we forge, the adventures we embark upon, and the memories we create that shape the diverse points of views.

Life is far from a smooth path. It’s riddled with challenges, uncertainties, and a multitude of emotions. Art, for me, serves as a powerful outlet to shout out these emotions and feelings that might otherwise remain unexpressed. Through my creative pursuits, I have found a medium to articulate the complexities of the human experience, capturing the myriad of perspectives we gain by looking through different windows into the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a reflection of the depths of human emotions and the intricacies of the human experience. In today’s fast-paced digital world, it’s easy to admire breathtaking artwork online without understanding the time, effort, and soul poured into each piece. The accessibility of beautiful artwork has, in a way, intensified my self-doubt. I often questioned whether my work was good enough or unique enough, comparing myself to others in the ever-expanding digital landscape.

However, over the years of my artistic journey, I’ve learned to embrace these negative feelings – the self-doubt, the loneliness, the anxiety, and the fear. Instead of letting them consume me, I channel these emotions into my artwork. One of my animation short tells the 52-hertz whale, the world’s loneliest whale, exploring the depths of the sea in search of understanding, much like individuals navigating their own emotional depths.

I’ve come to realize that my art is not about outshining others in a non-existent competition. It’s about narrating a unique story in my own words and from my own perspective. Through my work, I aim to connect with those who experience similar feelings, letting them know they are not alone.

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.
I love exploring the diverse neighborhoods of NYC, each with its unique charm. For a memorable day out, let’s venture into the vintage fashion stores of East Village. We can have a blast trying on different hats and sharing laughs. Afterwards, we can immerse ourselves in the artistic wonders of Chelsea, engaging in deep conversations about the meanings behind abstract paintings in the art galleries.

On a relaxing weekend, there’s nothing better than heading to Madison Square Park’s dog park. I love watch furry friends play and socialize while unwinding on a bench with a steaming cup of coffee and a good book – the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon.

And speaking of unique experiences, my absolute favorite spot in NYC is the Museum of Moving Image in Astoria, Queens. It’s a treasure trove of cinematic history, revealing the secrets behind filmmaking and animation. Visiting this museum is like stepping into the heart of creativity, where you can learn everything there is to know about the evolution of moving images. It’s a must-see for anyone passionate about the magic of film and animation.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate to my beloved grandfather whoinfluence on my artistic life cannot be overstated. Despite losing his legs in a life-altering accident when he was just in his 20s, he remained the most optimistic and kindest person I have ever known. His unwavering support, love, and encouragement formed the foundation upon which my creative spirit blossomed.

My parents were incredibly busy during my childhood. It was my grandfather who stepped in as my primary caregiver. In my young eyes, he was a hero, capable of fixing anything broken and crafting tools to aid in our daily lives. He believed that everything has its value. He transformed abandoned wood boards into sturdy pushcarts and repurposed sheets of used paper, printed on one side, into sketchbooks for me to doodle and explore my creativity. He taught me to see the beauty in the world, appreciate the intricacies of nature, understand the depth of relationships, and explore the nuances of emotions.

I owe so much of who I am today to him. My artistic journey is a tribute to his legacy, and I am forever grateful for the foundation he provided and the inspiration he continues to be in my life.

Website: https://www.mingxin-cheng.com

Instagram: @mx.c_design

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mingxin-cheng-bba786193/

Other: Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/mingxincheng