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

Hi Zhaoyue, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work-life balance is a dynamic concept that evolves in alignment with my current objectives. It adapts and changes over time to accommodate different priorities. I’ve discovered effective stress management techniques through incremental steps and cultivating a positive mindset. Utilizing tools like to-do lists has become an indispensable strategy as I navigate the demands of my current life, which includes pursuing a graduate degree and nurturing my art career.

Remaining receptive to support from others and maintaining flexibility are key aspects of my approach to achieving a sustainable work-life equilibrium. This adaptability allows me to strike the right balance between my academic pursuits and artistic endeavors while safeguarding my overall well-being.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My academic background is in interior architecture, and the pandemic brought about a significant transformation in my life. I had been working in the field of architecture for many years, and I also had experience as a product designer. My passion for crafting by hand had always been a part of me. However, during the pandemic, I made the decision to delve into the world of ceramics.

I relocated to Jingdezhen, renowned as the “porcelain capital,” and was utterly captivated by the intricate techniques and production processes involved in ceramics. Initially, I turned to art as a form of therapy, drawing upon my spatial design background to express myself in three dimensions. Once I started working with clay, I never looked back.

Becoming a ceramist came with its fair share of challenges, demanding ongoing learning and practice over an extended period. Through this journey, I learned the importance of striking a balance between the demands of my craft and the needs of my body.

During my time in Jingdezhen, I had the privilege of immersing myself in the ceramic community and participating in art exhibitions. I discovered that art possesses the remarkable ability to heal and bring joy to people, regardless of its format. I continue on this path, feeling incredibly fortunate to have found a creative career, with the aspiration of working as an artist being my lifelong goal.

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?
Of course I will bring them to my home studio and have a wonderful time with clay. Then I would love to take my friends to museums and markets. I want to bring them to craft contemporary, and Amoca for ceramic trips. I would also take them to the rose bowl flea market, and other weekend markets. I would love to hangout around art districts, and little Tokyo. Also in LA there are so many different foods you can try, I would definitely get tacos from food trucks for my friends, and also bring them to the beach, I would say maybe Santa Monica and Venice for bike ride, and Torrance for hike.

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?
Upon returning to Los Angeles, I actively sought a sense of belonging and connection within the city. I’d like to give a special shoutout to Throw Clay LA pottery workshop, which has truly become like a warm and welcoming family for those passionate about working with clay. The workshop’s clean and inviting interior creates an atmosphere of pure joy, making every moment spent there as a member truly delightful.

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-zhaoyue-chen/

Other: https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/53da1134b4c4d61de7eb72f2?xhsshare=CopyLink&appuid=53da1134b4c4d61de7eb72f2&apptime=1698019067

Image Credits
throw clay studio at dtla

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