We had the good fortune of connecting with Wenting (katherine) Yang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Wenting (Katherine), how does your business help the community?
Coming from a conservation background, I intend to use my artworks to inspire people about how they could be part of the global initiative in biodiversity conservation. In many countries, the link between environmental policy-making and local advocacy and community initiatives is often broken. People are not aware of how biodiversity is related to their lives. By portraiting wildlife using illustrations, particularly those people may encounter in their communities, I engage with communities in helping people appreciate the beauty within nature, and trigger more spontaneous actions in protecting these natural treasures.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
There are many artists who draw animals, but very few draw with the intent to use art as a tool for biodiversity advocacy. My passion for wildlife conservation began with all the animated films I watched as a child. Therefore I know that art, by bringing out the most beautiful and intriguing side of wildlife, could have a powerful influence on people in terms of how they approach wildlife in their daily lives. This constitutes the most important idea of my art: We need to protect wildlife not only because they are ecologically valuable, but also just because of the sheer beauty each species uniquely possesses. This is a very long journey in getting people to notice how these species inherently and beautifully differ from each other, and how they all are part of nature’s diversity, but I won’t hesitate.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As an animal lover, my place to go would definitely be the LA Zoo. This place is great for a casual walk, but also perfect if you want to spend an entire day learning about all the different wildlife around the world. I’ve gone to the Zoo three times and still learned something new every time I went there. LA Zoo is also doing superb conservation works, especially with the California Condor. They are very good at engaging with visitors as well, and it is very interesting to hear some behind-the-scenes stories of some of their most beloved animals.

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 am very thankful to my parents and friends who have offered me constant support, not only financially but also mentally. What I do is still a niche area and not many people have tapped into that space before. Therefore I’m grateful for their support as I continue down this journey.

Website: https://katherineyang.portfolio.site/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wenting-yang-1105/

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