Photographer: Fernando Rodriguez

1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?

I wouldn't say there is a significant life experience that shaped my artistic vision, but growing up, I'm a very sensitive and observative person. I like to track down the little details happening around us that people don't usually notice, or I often enlarge my senses and emotions that I can actually transfer to my art.

2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?

I once collaborated with my boyfriend Jason, who specializes in 3D animation, to create this short teaser video for my SS23 "Woman Blossoms" collection. The goal of this teaser was to set the mood and atmosphere for the collection, gradually introducing my audience to the story. The result was a resounding success, especially in this era where 3D elements like CLO or 3D modeling are making their mark in the fashion industry. It's exciting to see the sparks between these elements and how 3D elements are making changes in the fashion industry. You can explore more of his works on Instagram: @jiacheng_art.

3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?

The "Denim" and "Metamorphosis" project that I worked on while studying abroad at Central Saint Martins in 2023 was challenging for me because, first of all, I feel like they have a completely different thinking system in design compared to America's, which is the system I've been growing up in and being used to. Second of all, denim is the most unrelatable fabric to me; I don't know why it always feels so distant and unapproachable. But eventually, the tutor pushed me to go outside of my comfort zone, so I ended up adding a little twist to this traditional and ordinary fabric. I created two denim bridal looks, including techniques like denim tie-dying, laser cutting on the denim veil, draped denim skirt, and even a sexy sculptural denim look with only recycled denim straps without any outside or non-sustainable materials like wires.

4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?

What makes my art stand out is the distinct experience it aims to create for my audience. Whether it's the unconventional textures, innovative use of materials, intriguing visions, or the atmosphere that the final outcomes carry, I always strive to offer a complete experience that allows my audience to fully engage their senses. I believe that fashion is not just about looking stunning and visually pleasing, but an experience that invites people to feel, touch, and completely immerse themselves in the stories of collections that designers tell.

5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you've set for your artistic career in the coming years?

My artistic fashion career goal is to create something new and fresh. Despite the challenges of an industry where countless designers have already established and released millions and billions of ideas, I still very much want to strengthen my creativity and put out something that people would probably comment, "Wow, this is new, and I like it".

But realistically, my ultimate goal is to establish a successful label, and I want people worldwide to recognize and appreciate my work. In the meantime, I also want to collaborate with many talented artists, not just celebrities but also people who significantly influence the world.

6. How did you discover Mob and what made you choose us? <3

I initially discovered Mob because a few stylists pulled garments from my previous collections, and they ended up featured in the Mob journal; since then, I've been following on social media for quite a while. I chose Mob because it is such a nicely curated platform that features so many amazing emerging designers' works, and it’s also very interesting to see how everyone with their team came out with such amazing and distinct fashion content. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my work with such a valued audience.