Meet Yuxiao Mu | Interdisciplinary Artist

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

Hi Yuxiao, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic career because of a passion for art that began early, inspired by my father, an architect. Growing up in the house he designed, I was captivated by the seamless blend of creativity and precision. As a child, I would sit by his side, immersed in the world of architectural design software, crafting my own imaginary houses. This early experience of creating something uniquely my own was transformative, sparking a deep love for art that has guided my journey ever since.

Being completely absorbed in the creative process was exhilarating, and it instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of art to convey emotion and narrative. This deep connection to art, combined with the excitement of creating and expressing myself through various mediums, made pursuing an artistic career a natural and fulfilling choice for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Absolutely, I’d be happy to share more about my art and the journey that brought me to where I am today. After graduating from a professional art high school where I honed my skills in sketching and painting, I pursued my dream further by attending LuXun Academy of Fine Arts in Shenyang, China. This pivotal step allowed me to delve into a variety of artistic mediums. Although my major was Photography, I also explored printmaking, public art, and sculpture. The exposure to these diverse forms expanded my understanding of art and helped me find what truly resonated with me.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Moving to the United States to pursue an MFA at MassArt in Boston was a significant challenge. Adapting to a new culture and educational system required me to step out of my comfort zone. However, these experiences were invaluable in broadening my perspective and enriching my artistic vision. Each challenge I faced became a lesson in resilience and adaptability, pushing me to embrace new opportunities even when they seemed daunting. What sets my work apart is the blend of disciplined training and eclectic artistic exploration. From there, I found my way of being a teacher in higher education. Each challenge I faced became a lesson in resilience and adaptability, pushing me to embrace new opportunities even when they seemed daunting.

My art practice is deeply intertwined with my teaching. I’ve taught various courses such as Inside the Camera, which dives into analog photography, and Visual Language, focusing on composition, color, and contemporary art-making across different media, and Time, which centers on video, sound, animation, and bookmaking, with themes exploring memory and truth in imagery.

Being both an artist and an educator has been incredibly fulfilling. Teaching inspires my art, and my creative practice continually enriches my teaching. This symbiotic relationship allows me to contribute meaningfully to both fields and stay constantly inspired and engaged. Through my journey, I’ve learned that embracing change and challenging myself are crucial for growth. I hope to inspire others with my story, demonstrating that persistence and passion can lead to incredible personal and professional development.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
LA is such an awesome place to visit with its fantastic art scene and vibrant cultural life. One of my favorite places in LA is the Getty Center, which offers incredible art collections, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens—it’s a perfect spot to get inspired. Beyond this, I would highly recommend The Broad Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), and the Arts District where you can discover the local street art, galleries, and incredible food. A day at Santa Monica Beach is essential, especially to enjoy the sunset at the Santa Monica Pier, offering a breathtaking end to the day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a shoutout to several incredible influences in my journey as an artist. First and foremost, I owe a great deal of my success to the instructors at MassArt during my MFA program. They were not only generous with their time and knowledge, but they also provided invaluable guidance and inspiration. Their expertise and passion for art deeply influenced my development and pushed me to explore new creative boundaries. In addition to the faculty, the supportive environment fostered by my peers at MassArt was instrumental in my growth. Collaborating and exchanging ideas with such a talented and diverse group of individuals enriched my learning experience and fueled my artistic practice. We challenged each other, celebrated each other’s successes, and provided constructive feedback that was crucial for our collective growth.

Furthermore, I’d like to extend my gratitude to the broader artistic community and organizations that have supported my journey. Participating in workshops, attending exhibitions, and engaging with fellow artists and mentors outside of MassArt have all contributed to my development as an artist. Their encouragement and the vibrant exchange of ideas have been pivotal in shaping my artistic vision.

Overall, my journey has been profoundly influenced by the incredible support system around me, and I am deeply grateful for all the encouragement, mentorship, and inspiration I’ve received along the way.

Website: https://muyuxiao.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/x.ppmu/