Meet Shangxiao Qiu | Filmmaker & Content Creator

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

Hi Shangxiao, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always seen myself as a leader, even from my school days. Whenever a group was uncertain or directionless, I naturally stepped up to connect, guide, and support others. This instinct to lead has been a consistent thread throughout my life. After gaining substantial experience working with professional companies and major brands, I felt that I had not only accumulated the necessary skills but also built a strong network of resources.
I reached a point where the constraints of traditional roles no longer aligned with my vision. I was ready to break free from those limitations and create my own path. Starting my own business was a natural progression—a step towards establishing my own rules and leading with the confidence I’ve always had in myself. It was time to take charge of my destiny and fully embrace the leadership role that I’ve always felt was my calling.

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.
What sets my art apart is the deep personal connection I infuse into every project I undertake as a filmmaker. Whether I’m directing, shooting, or creating visuals, I always draw from my life experiences to give each piece a soul of its own. I don’t just follow the rules; I blend in my unique understanding of color, the textures that have left an imprint on me, and the emotions I’ve experienced. When I create, I resonate deeply with the process, embedding a part of myself in the work and allowing the work to leave a lasting impact on me as well.

My journey is rooted in my personal story. At the age of 16, I left my hometown and came to America to study abroad. It was far from easy, but those challenges taught me to think outside the box and to take risks in pursuit of something greater. That spirit of boldness is woven into the fabric of my career and my company, shaping me into an artist who isn’t afraid to break the mold and reveal my true self through my work.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way have been invaluable. I’ve come to understand the importance of resilience, the power of taking risks, and the necessity of staying true to oneself. My art is a reflection of these principles, and I hope it inspires others to embrace their own unique journeys with the same courage and authenticity.

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?
Like me, my best friend appreciates the feeling of truly living in a place, as if we were locals in another parallel universe. So, rather than hitting the typical tourist spots, I’d curate an experience that immerses us in the authentic local vibe.

We’d start our mornings with leisurely brunches at hidden gems known for their fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere where the locals linger over coffee. These are the kinds of places where you can really feel the rhythm of the city, enjoying a slow start to the day while soaking in the surroundings.

Afternoons would be spent at must-visit cafés—local favorites with great coffee and an even better vibe. It’s the type of place where time seems to slow down, allowing us to catch up on life, surrounded by the hum of everyday conversations and the warmth of the community.

As the day winds down, we’d head to the coast, but not to the crowded beaches. Instead, we’d find those quiet stretches of sand where locals go to unwind. Here, we could relax, watch the sky change colors as the sun sets, and maybe even join in some impromptu dancing under the moonlight, if the mood strikes.

Throughout the week, we’d explore the city’s lesser-known spots—charming neighborhoods, hidden art galleries, and perhaps a local farmer’s market where we could pick up fresh produce and chat with the vendors. Evenings would be spent in low-key bars where the locals go, enjoying craft cocktails and live music that feels intimate and personal.

The focus would be on experiencing the everyday life of the locals—living, eating, and exploring as they do. This kind of itinerary creates lasting memories and a deeper connection to the place, making our time together truly special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a special shoutout to The Ride of a Lifetime by Disney CEO Bob Iger. This book has played a profoundly impactful role in my life, especially as I navigate through a transformative phase and make significant life decisions. Unlike many autobiographies, Bob Iger’s story is particularly relatable to me because he dedicates a substantial portion to his life before becoming CEO, detailing his journey from a humble position at a television station to leading one of the world’s most iconic companies.

The lessons in the book—about thinking ahead, envisioning the big picture, trusting your instincts, and always treating people with sincerity—have deeply resonated with me. These principles align closely with my approach to both my personal and professional life. Iger’s insights have been a guiding force, inspiring me as I connect with industry leaders, make pivotal decisions, and craft a strategic life plan. It’s more than just a book; it’s a source of wisdom that has reinforced the importance of foresight, integrity, and authentic leadership in my journey.

Website: https://www.lukasqiu.art

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukas.qiu/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shangxiao-qiu-a9b96822b