We had the good fortune of connecting with Xueting Li and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Xueting, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
From a very young age, my fascination with animation and video game art exposed me to the beauty worldwide. As I delved into the artwork of others, I discovered the profound ability of art to express and transcend personal sentiments. Consequently, during my teenage years, I embarked on the journey of learning to sketch, as it provided a means to authentically depict my inner thoughts. It is my unwavering passion for this art form that keeps me engaged in the creative industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
At present, my primary focus is 3D modeling and lighting. I will also work in various projects in 2D animation. I aim to merge diverse art styles and forms, emphasizing creating a captivating atmosphere. My journey in the animation field has not been smooth, and it took me quite a while, even during my time in graduate school, to decide whether I wanted to pursue a career related to 3D animation. The decision itself was a source of ongoing struggle, as shifting my studies’ direction would mean starting over from scratch. However, as I mentioned, I realized that my previous studies were not in vain. Instead, they provided me with some artistic aesthetics, making me more intuitive in art.
To all students pursuing a career in this field, I would advise that if you cannot determine your career direction right away, it is best to focus on what currently brings you the most enjoyment. This innate drive will propel you toward acquiring knowledge in other areas as you progress.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Georgia Aquarium and the Atlanta Botanical Garden rank as my top and most visited places in Atlanta. Atlanta is a bustling city, so I feel like I need some time for myself to take in the calm and natural atmosphere. I’ll look for creative inspiration in these places, relax in the Botanical Garden by closing my eyes and feeling the breeze. If my friend wants to feel the energy of the city, I’ll guide her through the streets of Midtown. All in all, Atlanta is a place where you can feel the atmosphere of the city but also the beauty of nature at all times.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I deeply appreciate my parents for their unwavering support. During times when I felt lost and had nowhere to turn, they consistently stood by my side. Pursuing an art education in China comes with significant challenges, and without the support of my parents, I would never have been able to get a better opportunity to learn more.

Website: https://tingsartspace.wixsite.com/design

Instagram: ijustwannakissmybed

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xuetingli0807/

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