Today we’d like to introduce you to Yu Zhang.
Hi Yu, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born in China and have had a keen insight into art since I was a child. Thinking and creating have never left my life. The experience of performing at university allowed me to reinterpret art from a different perspective and served as the starting point for my entry into the film industry. It also led me to step foot in the land of Hollywood. The graduate program in producing, as well as professional training as a writer, further intensified my artistic creativity and provided a deeper understanding of the correlation between literature, film, and art.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Creation is inspired by life and elevated above life – these two aspects complement each other. However, finding the balance between them is also a challenge for me.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My works explore the existential loneliness of individuals in the world and the importance of one’s awareness of death in the search for an authentic self that transcends desires and breaks free from social systems and conventional norms. The stories I tell from a female perspective, excavate the relationship between the physical and the spiritual in emotions and the limitations and unpredictability of emotions, thus highlighting the importance of female spiritual independence. A poignant romanticism to express my thoughts, capturing my feelings and the world around me.
Writing has been a powerful medium for me to express my creativity and skills through certification by the Writers Guild of America Writers training at Writers Boot Camp. My literary works have been publishing multiple prose works in renowned literary magazines in China and have deeply resonated with and provoked reflection from readers. Additionally, my abilities as a screenwriter have shone through in my contributions to film projects, lending a unique voice to the narratives I help shape.
Alongside my writing prowess, I also occupy a position in other roles within the film industry. I have produced films “Interface,” “Lipstick,” and many others, and I worked on the AFI films “Love Dust,” “Crab Dance,” “Dumplings & Tortellini,” and several others. In addition, my experience in directing and acting always helps me develop an appreciation for the artistic side of productions. Once participated in the stage play “Leftover Girl” and “Secret Love in Peach Blossom Land.”, starring short film “Breaking Dawn” won an award at Asian World Film Festival, Rochester International Film Festival Honorable Mention, screed at Kansas City Film Festival, Julien Dubuque International Film Festival. My short film “Someone in Time” has been screened in numerous international film festivals, including Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival, The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival, the Chinese American Film Festival, and many others. My short documentary “Art Beyond Survival” has been selected LA Documentary Film Festival. In addition, my art film, “The Cure,” was chosen for LA Shorts International Film Festival, finalist at USA Film Festival, and Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival Semifinalist.
Further showcasing my creative vision. My oil paintings employ the form of classical Impressionism and describe melancholic personal existentialism of femininity. My work exhibitions include “Going Forward in the Light” 2022 Chinese Contemporary Art Exhibition. Notably, I participated in the 2nd Chinese and Foreign Artists Fine Arts, Calligraphy, and Art Exhibition an exceptional award and second prize. I always believe the essence lies in the thoughts conveyed and the emotions recorded through any form of artistic expression,
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
The city is filled with people from different countries, and the diversity of cultures allows me to constantly learn and understand other cultures, which is my favorite part. However, it is also my least favorite part; in a diverse living environment, some people inevitably view others based on their race and cultural differences.
Contact Info:
- Website: ellaanjm.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellaanjm/?r=nametag
