Rising Stars: Meet Jingwen Felix Qiang

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jingwen Felix Qiang.

Hi Jingwen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today. 
I began my journey as a fine art photography and video art student at Bryn Mawr and Haverford Colleges. It was in my first photography class with William Earle Williams that I fell in love with storytelling through imagery, exploring the depths of humanity and life. 

After graduation, I took a detour into the world of venture capital firms in China, driven partly by my Asian upbringing and the pursuit of what seemed like the perfect job. However, after two years, I realized my passion lay in building things from the ground up, a sentiment that resonated deeply with my enduring love for art. 

Understanding that filmmaking requires both creativity and technical prowess, I pursued a Master’s in Computer Science at the University of Pennsylvania to strengthen my technical skills. This decision led me to my current role as a Software Engineering Lead at Amazon Web Services, where I’ve spent three years pioneering the next generation of film technology. 

However, my pursuit of creativity never waned. Concurrently, I’ve been working on my narrative short film, “Calexico,” sponsored by Film Independent and currently in post-production. Collaborating with talented individuals, including our executive producer, Jennie Lew Tugend, known for producing iconic films like the “Free Willy Trilogy” and “Lethal Weapon,” has been an enriching experience. 

We are actively seeking finishing funds to bring “Calexico” to fruition, a project that embodies my belief in marrying technology with a gentle heart for humanity, fostering innovation while staying true to the essence of storytelling. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, that’s for sure. One significant hurdle has been reconciling my Asian upbringing with my career aspirations. In many Asian households, there’s a strong emphasis on stability and pursuing what’s deemed a “perfect” job. Convincing my family that my path as a software engineer can coexist harmoniously with my passion for filmmaking has been a nuanced process, requiring compromise and understanding from both sides. 

Another notable struggle has been navigating the complexities of immigration. As a foreigner, the journey comes with its own set of obstacles. From job applications to securing opportunities, the additional layers of scrutiny and the occasional rejection solely based on immigrant status have been part of the reality. It’s been a lesson in resilience and determination, requiring me to go above and beyond to prove my worth. 

Despite these challenges, I’ve remained steadfast in my pursuit of my dreams, understanding that every setback is a steppingstone toward growth and progress. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a visual artist and technologist who thrives on creating compelling images, both still and in motion. My journey began with a significant recognition at the age of 19, when I received an accolade from the International Photography Awards (IPA). Since then, I’ve been dedicated to crafting visually captivating works that resonate with audiences worldwide. My photography has graced numerous exhibitions across the globe, showcasing the power of storytelling through imagery. 

In addition to photography, I’ve ventured into the realm of filmmaking. My latest project, “Calexico,” supported by Film Independent, is currently in post-production, marking another milestone in my creative journey. 

What sets me apart? I’d say it’s my unique blend of technical expertise and creative vision. Among creatives, I bring a strong technical acumen to the table, while in the tech world, I’m recognized for my unparalleled creativity. It’s this fusion of art and technology that defines my work and sets me apart from others in the field. 

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Curiosity is at the heart of everything I do. I’m the type of person who’s always eager to explore new avenues, even if it means sitting in on a class at 90. There’s a world of knowledge out there, and I believe there’s always something to learn in every aspect of life. This insatiable curiosity fuels my constant quest for growth and understanding. 

Moreover, I never stop learning. It’s this willingness to continually expand my knowledge base that enables me to quickly adapt to new challenges and environments. Whether it’s in filmmaking or other creative endeavors, this ability to absorb and apply new knowledge has been instrumental in my success. 

Contact Info:

• Website: felixqiang.com/art
• Instagram: felixseye
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jingwen-qiang/