Meet Yin Zhang | Artist & Oya Oya founder & Fashion Designer

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

Hi Yin, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As an artist with a fashion design background, I have been immersed in the realm of self-made entrepreneurs throughout my upbringing. The allure of forging my own path has always coursed through my veins. In fact, my father’s business of oud incense further fueled my entrepreneurial spirit and kindled my creative fire.

Initially, I yearned to explore ventures beyond the confines of fashion, seeking solace from the perpetual waves of self-doubt and existential turmoil that often besieged me. It was during an extraordinary sojourn on the Tibetan Plateau in Gansu that destiny interwoven my path with that of Sherap Gatso, a former lama monk at Labrang and a skilled artisan of incense. This fortuitous encounter marked the inception of the captivating Oya Oya journey.

Each day, I lit incense, drawing solace from its ethereal tendrils that wafted through the air. Yet, I found myself plagued by allergic rhinitis, a condition that intensified when exposed to chemically-laden incense pervading the market. However, Gatso’s meticulously crafted offerings proved to be a balm for my senses, allowing me to breathe freely and revel in their aromatic embrace.

Contemplating the prevailing market landscape, I discerned a tendency to romanticize and exoticize numerous East Asian products. In the case of Tibetan offerings, the focus often gravitated towards the mystique of the Himalayas and other enchanting facets. It became apparent to me that we needed to dispel these fantasies and redirect our attention towards the essence that truly defines a culture—the people who breathe life into its vibrant tapestry.

Upon profound introspection, I recognized that profound emotional undercurrents propelled my aspirations. Rooted in a Buddhist family, incense held an integral place in our communal gatherings, invoking a palpable sense of warmth and nostalgia. It is this very sentiment that now inspires me to share these evocative experiences with a broader audience, infusing their lives with a blend of inquisitiveness, playfulness, and boundless excitement.

Picture, if you will, the moment when you unlock a treasure chest, its lid swinging open to reveal an abundance of surprises that transcend the boundaries of imagination. As the flame dances upon the incense, an enchanting metamorphosis unfolds—a gateway to the sprawling grasslands, where yaks roam freely, and the tantalizing aroma of tea brewed on a traditional Tibetan stove permeates the air, stirring your senses.

Derived from a spirited word in the rich tapestry of the Tibetan language, Oya Oya gracefully tumbles from the lips of those who seek the joyous interplay of connections. It encapsulates a whimsical harmony—an exaltation of agreement that reverberates with an irresistible pulse of positive energy, resonating deeply within the hearts of all who encounter it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Rather than confining myself in the role of a designer,

I identify myself as a multi-disciplinary artist employing fibre material and structures as my medium.

Through my work, I often attempts to reflect, breakdown, and visualize abstract, non-tangible concepts such as spirituality, ritualistic behaviours, and the ephemeral human-nature experience. Via each of my art pieces, I propose personal questions of discussion and share with audiences my process of self-discovering.

Oya Oya and my artwork intertwine in a seamless tapestry of interconnectedness. It is a small beginning to a bigger project. I can’t wait to see what comes next!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
for LA, I will bring them to République for brunch, and Lalibela for Ethiopian food for dinner. for New York (since live here, I have many more options), I will bring them to Marea for their Octopus Fusilli, Carne Mare has the best garlic bread, and Artichoke Pizza. Hunan Slurp is my all time favorite Chinese restaurant. Ash box is another hidden gem in greenpoint, they change their menu every day.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Special thanks to Sherap Gatso, Ann He, Simon Du, and Feng for all the help and guidance on my journey.

Website: www.yinyouci.com

Instagram: yinyinyouci

Other: Brand Instagram: oyaoya.yaya

Image Credits
Tianqi Liao Honglin Cai Simon Du