Meet Yan Chang

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

Hi Yan, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Business ownership has been an enriching journey for me. While I’m uncertain of the tangible returns, the experience I’ve gained is invaluable. Learning how to solve problems in entrepreneurship is crucial. Starting a business reveals just how challenging it is to persist until success. There are countless moments when giving up seems tempting, but persistence is key to achieving success. Fortunately, I have a partner who progresses alongside me. My startup partner has been a tremendous source of help and support. We encourage each other during tough times, which has been incredibly rewarding. We are helping each other grow.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The most meaningful aspect of my art to me is the materials. I’m a huge fan of materials, as I love presenting my works in different mediums and thoroughly enjoy the process of exploration. If I had to focus on a single medium, it would be challenging, but the freedom to experiment with various materials excites me. Through this exploration, I hope to find my soul medium.

My journey to where I am today has been cumulative. I still remember the talented seniors I met when I started in the industry. Their proficiency inspired me, and I fantasized about reaching their level. Back then, all I could do was move forward and explore steadily. Realizing now that I can help others brings me great relief and satisfaction. There are no shortcuts on this path; it requires consistent effort. However, the value gained at the end is immeasurable. Seeing that my work can now give meaning to others fills me with genuine happiness.

Along the way, I’ve painted until my hands were too sore to lift a brush and faced repeated failures while exploring new materials. From the initial confusion, I now approach creative challenges with a clear sense of purpose. It’s amazing to feel like you’ve suddenly matured and can embark on your journey independently. Life is like a game where you advance to the next level, sometimes facing it alone and confronting many unknowns. But don’t be afraid; you’ll always find a way. Embrace the unknown future and enjoy the solitude.

I am passionate about sharing stories and aspire to share them with the world. When you slow down and truly feel the world, you become overwhelmed by its power. Try closing your eyes to smell the flowers; you’ll realize the beauty of that moment. Whether in living or creating, the most important thing is to feel the power the world gives us. This power is invisible yet incredibly strong. I cherish all the experiences and realizations the world has brought me because they have made me a more complete person.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Although America is not where I was born, it holds a special place in my heart. I would love to give people a tour of Los Angeles, a city that might be seen by some as dirty and unsafe but represents a significant phase of my life.

As a tour guide in LA, I would definitely take visitors to the various flea markets, my favorite part of the city. You never know what you’ll find at a flea market, and it’s one of my main sources of inspiration. The thrill of discovering something new and the power it gives you when you want to learn more about it is unmatched.

For food, Highland Park is a fantastic neighborhood. It’s vibrant and full of passionate people. One of my favorite restaurants there is Joy, a Taiwanese-style eatery. Every visit excites me as it showcases the diversity and possibilities of the area.

The Row is another favorite neighborhood of mine. It embodies the lifestyle I envision for my future—artsy and beautiful. It’s like a fountain of inspired art, full of surprises. As a coffee enthusiast, the cafes around Art District always draw me in, like a powerful magnet. MARU is my favorite; their coffee is as dangerous and glamorous as LA itself. They also have a hidden entrance to a store with designer clothing brands, allowing you to shop while enjoying your coffee. I can’t think of anything more delightful than that.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My beginning drawing teacher has been a significant guidepost in my life. I have been learning Chinese painting since I was six years old, and my teacher has profoundly influenced my entire painting career. His encouraging teaching style helped me realize that everyone has their own uniqueness and shining points. He always shared stories with us in his special way, gradually influencing me.

I remember wanting to give up at one point, but he comforted me, saying, “If you’re tired, we can take a break. But if you no longer feel happy when you pick up the brush, then it’s not too late to consider giving up.” Miraculously, I was just tired, because I still feel an overwhelming sense of pride when I paint.

The impact he has had on me is beyond words. Today, we are both so proud of each other. More than a teacher, he is my most important friend.

Website: https://ychang192c9e.myportfolio.com/work

Instagram: ychang26miranda (https://www.instagram.com/ychang26miranda?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr)

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miranda-chang-136a5b294/ 

Image Credits
Page 1-2 Hand-embroidery “Secrets of Sea Otters” 2024 Page 3 Poster design “French New Wave Film Festival” 2024 Page 4-5 Illustration work “Mexico Travel Poster”2023 Page 6 Illustration work “Homeland of Yaks” 2023 Page 7 Illustration work “The Life of Iris” 2024 Page 8 Handmade “Mind Control” 2022