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

Hi Jing, how do you think about risk?
To take a risk is to take a chance – a chance for transformation, for breakthrough.

In 2013, I made the decision to bring my art practice beyond the borders of my home country. It meant stepping out of my comfort zone and into the unknown. That risk reshaped my career, shifted my mindset, and opened up entirely new ways of thinking and making. I wouldn’t be who I am, nor would my work be what it is today, without that leap.

In the studio, I continue to embrace risk as part of my process. During graduate school, I stepped away from a familiar and mature body of figurative work to explore abstraction. I let go of linear methods – working from sketches, designs, or prototypes – and began handbuilding each piece part by part, without a blueprint. Once I have gathered enough components, I assemble them intuitively, allowing form and structure to emerge organically – often resulting in something that moves beyond my imagination.

For me, risk isn’t just a decision – it’s a way of working, a way of growing. It leads me somewhere unexpected, and often, somewhere deeply meaningful.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I think what makes my work different is that it never loses touch with where I come from. I often revisit my own culture and identity – drawing inspiration from the landscape of my hometown Guilin, from traditional Chinese scholar’s rocks, and from my early experiences practicing Chinese ink painting and calligraphy. Looking back, I don’t think I would’ve developed this perspective without the experience of studying and living abroad. I’m proud to stay honest in my practice. Being away gave me the distance to reflect on my background and truly revalue the scenery and traditions I once took for granted.

The journey definitely hasn’t always been easy. What helped me get through was staying open and optimistic. That openness – to change, to reflection, to uncertainty – has allowed me to keep growing, both as a person and as an artist.

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?
I’d definitely take them to the Mint Museum Uptown in Charlotte. It has beautiful architecture, a calm atmosphere, and an impressive collection of art. After soaking in the museum, we’d grab coffee nearby and chat. If the weather’s nice, we’d take a walk through Freedom Park to unwind. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the day!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a big shoutout to my husband, ChengOu Yu. He’s also an amazing ceramic artist, and we met back in undergrad in China. Since then, we’ve been through so much together – studying in different countries, navigating all kinds of life changes. In my career, he’s always been the one supporting me the most – emotionally, creatively, and in so many other ways. I honestly couldn’t have done it without him.

Website: https://www.jinghuangceramics.com

Instagram: jing_ceramics

Image Credits
Jing Huang and ChengOu Yu

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