Life & Work with Collin. Xueqing Yin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Collin. Xueqing Yin.

Hi Collin. Xueqing, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Born in Nanchang, I am a writer and director currently residing in Los Angeles, having previously called New York City my home until 2021. My journey into the world of storytelling began at a young age when my mother encouraged me to read numerous biography books, urging me to recite the tales of figures such as the poetic Li Bai and the pioneering scientist Marie Curie. Little did I know that these early encounters with literature would lay the foundation for my lifelong passion for words and their profound ability to evoke emotions and conjure vivid mental images.

As I cultivated a daily habit of immersing myself in imaginative realms, daydreaming became second nature to me. My fascination with storytelling soon extended to the world of cinema. I initially discovered the magic of film through channels like CCTV6 in China and later, the immersive experience of the movie theater. Countless hours were spent with friends in darkened theaters, where we absorbed a vast array of cinematic stories.

.During my tenure in the MFA Photo and Video program at the School of Visual Arts, I delved into art theories and embraced new media. It was here that I fell head over heels for contemporary art, opening the door to a world where creativity knows no bounds. My immersion in contemporary art not only expanded my horizons but also deepened my interest in storytelling within the medium of film. I developed a keen appreciation for films that pushed boundaries and challenged conventions. Both as an audience member and a director, I gradually came to understand the profound impact that fleeting moments could have on people, far surpassing the significance of a neatly tied-up narrative.

In essence, my journey has been a tapestry of literary inspiration, cinematic fascination, and an unquenchable thirst for artistic exploration. It is within these realms that I find my purpose and passion as a writer and director.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It took me a while to realize that my greatest passion was filmmaking. I had a few years where I lost focus and simply enjoyed the artistic scene in galleries and exhibitions. But It wasn’t a struggle; it was a lot of fun.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
“A White Plastic Bag” (2018): An experimental documentary that traces the journey of a plastic bag through Times Square.

“Fiction About Country C” (2019): A family documentary that follows my mother’s journey as she attempts to have her second child through IVF in China.

“In the Garden” (2020): A documentary that explores the lives of background actors at Xiangshan Film Studio.

“HUA” (2022): Inspired by the hate crimes targeting Asian people during the pandemic, this film delves into the complexities of this issue.

“My Mom’s Best Friend” (2024, currently in post-production): This film tells the story of a young dancer grappling with an unplanned pregnancy, guided by a spirited little girl on a transformative journey.

In addition to my film work, I’ve been working on an ongoing film photography series called “Negative Daydream” since 2017.

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I recently completed my Improv 101 class at the UCB theater, and I must say it was a truly reinvigorating experience. It has deepened my understanding of performance and the art of improvisation. I highly recommend attending an improv show, especially when you’re going through a rough patch in life—it can be remarkably uplifting!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.xueqingyin.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/callingyin_art/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collin-yin-9a600017a/