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

Hi Jingyao, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Hey, this is Jing and I’m a model based in Los Angeles. The reason I started modeling is quite simple—it has always been my dream. I believe every piece of clothing or artwork has its soul, and I find joy in discovering that soul and expressing it silently in front of the camera, using myself as a medium. Pursuing a career where I can bring ideas to life and connect with others through visual storytelling felt like a natural path. Therefore, my work always reflects my inner passion and strives to showcase diversity, break traditional boundaries, better represent inclusivity, and inspire others in the process.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Unlike robots, human beings are born with a soul and passion. Daily work should not, and cannot, stop us from enjoying life. As I’ve mentioned before, my art, particularly in the context of modeling, is about embodying the essence of each piece I wear and conveying the narrative behind it. What distinguishes me from others is my profound connection to the garments and the stories they tell. I see myself as a medium through which designers’ visions come to life, allowing the clothes to communicate their unique qualities.

I take pride in my ability to adapt and bring diverse styles to life, whether it’s high fashion or everyday wear. In a world shaped by modern civilization, there’s always a dynamic and intricate collision between humanity, nature, and fashion. This clash, much like a canvas, reveals the multifaceted values of human society. Each encounter with seasoned professionals in the fashion industry, as well as the moments of resonance with various outfits and settings, has not only deepened my self-awareness but also broadened my understanding of the industry, challenging me to push my limits and explore new creative directions.

Getting to where I am today has been far from easy. I’ve faced numerous challenges, including self-doubt and the competitive nature of the modeling industry. During my college years, my major was entirely unrelated to fashion. After graduation, driven by passion and a desire to fulfill my dreams, I embarked on this journey alone, starting from the bottom. I continuously learned, improved, and embraced these obstacles as opportunities for growth. Surrounding myself with supportive mentors and relentlessly refining my skills have been crucial.

One of the most important lessons learned is the value of resilience. Maintaining a strong sense of self and staying true to one’s vision, even in the face of rejection, is crucial. The belief in authenticity and diversity drives the work, aiming to inspire others by showcasing that every individual has unique beauty and a story worth telling. Ultimately, the goal is to create a space where everyone feels represented and valued.

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?
If my best friend were visiting Southern California, I would create the perfect itinerary that balances culture, nature, and adventure to make the most of their trip.

Being a big fan of museums, we would start at the Getty Center to admire the incredible art collections, stunning Roman architecture, and beautiful gardens. Next, I would take them to the Natural History Museum to explore various treasures, from dinosaur fossils to gems. Finally, we’d visit Griffith Observatory to gaze at the stars and enjoy breathtaking views of Los Angeles.

Borrowing a line from Tupac’s “California Love,” “It’s all good from Diego to the Bay,” we can’t forget about San Diego. We would explore the USS Midway Museum, strolling through this historic aircraft carrier to appreciate the allure of naval history, complete with hands-on exhibits that bring it to life. For a change of pace, we’d wake up early to visit La Jolla’s Seal Beach, where we could watch the sunrise and see the seals playfully lounging by the shore—an ideal start to the day. Last but not least, we’d embark on a road trip up the Pacific Coast Highway to Yosemite, where we can escape the city and leave our worries behind in the mountains. Alternatively, if we’re in the mood for some desert vibes, we could head to Joshua Tree for a night under the stars—nothing more relaxing than that!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been fortunate to have an amazing network of support throughout my modeling journey. First, I would definitely give credit to my mother, who always encouraged me to pursue my passions and never doubted my potential. Additionally, the designers, photographers, and directors I’ve worked with, have played a big role in shaping my path. Much like the song ‘High Hopes,’ I’ve always aimed high and stayed determined, and without the support of those around me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’m incredibly grateful for everything on this journey.

Instagram: Jing__arson

Image Credits
Escape Plan – @halwphoto @sarahlee.stylist
Drowing&Growing – @ofstudio.cecilia @shu.zhang @janna_chang
Bamboo – Liu Fang Vision
Alexis Monsanto Runway Show- @alexismonsanto @phantomegg @markgunter
Fashion Shoot – @alannagilbertphoto
David Tupaz Runway Show- @Davidtupaz @patrickcox
Valdrin Sahiti Runway Show- @valdrinsahiti @williamleespixels

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