Meet Jin Xia

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jin Xia.

Hi Jin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Born and raised in Hangzhou, southeastern China, I started drawing since young. After high school, I left my hometown and went to study abroad at Washington University in St. Louis. Even though the Communication Design program covers a wide range of topics, I always feel passionate about editorial illustrations. After college, I spent two years finishing my MFA degree in Illustration Practice at the Maryland Institute College of Art. When I left grad school, I moved to New York City and worked as a full-time designer during the day while taking editorial illustration commissions in my free time.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My biggest struggle is too much self-questioning. There was a time when I compared myself with other established artists and got afraid to publish my work online. My self-doubt became a vicious cycle that nearly kills creativity. I think it’s important for creatives to believe in themselves and their work. Along my creative journey, I was truly grateful to meet some incredible mentors and friends. I gradually learn to build up my confidence by talking with friends, meditating, and focusing on what I am doing at the moment.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an in-house designer by day and a freelance illustrator in my free time. I specialize in editorial illustrations, producing images for newspapers and magazines. Different from other illustrators with a consistent visual style, I am more of a generalist with a problem-solving mind. I enjoy solving visual challenges, and I am always willing to experiment with new styles.

What makes you happy?
I am a foodie so I love exploring great restaurants in New York City!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jinxiaart.com/
• Instagram: @jin_xia_art

Image Credits
Copyright © Jin Xia, 2022