This Marketer's Pottery Is a Love Letter to Chinese Culture

“Every Chinese kid knows the classic blue and white Qinghua patterns, or the traditional lidded tea mugs their grandmother used to sip from. Memories of these grace my childhood, yet I used to think these looked so antiquated,” Zhu said. “But as I got older, I developed a new appreciation for those shapes and patterns.”

Zhu’s reconnection with her heritage followed her move to Los Angeles, which brought on significant lifestyle changes that paved the way for her creative calling. Moving away from the hustle and bustle of New York, she found the time and freedom to pursue life outside of her role as director of entertainment marketing strategy at NBCUniversal.

As is the case for many first-generation Americans, the benchmark for success in Zhu’s upbringing was always based on career and financial stability. Creative pursuits are often deemed impractical. In Chinese culture specifically, Zhu said she has noticed an emphasis on becoming doctors and lawyers. Zhu initially created multiple lists of pros and cons about personal branding and entrepreneurship before convincing herself to take a leap of faith.

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“I eventually realized how crucial it was for me to be proud of my art,” she said, “because I recognized what many AAPI artists out there also had to overcome just to call themselves an artist: years of conditioning, insecurities and generational trauma.”

The history of Chinese ceramics stretches back centuries, something that Zhu works hard to honor in her art. Her goal is to help people feel love and inspiration through her unique pieces. Mission accomplished—her art completely sold out almost immediately at a ceramics showcase in New York’s Chinatown in December. The cherry on top was her mother’s pride and excitement as she shared the news.

To ensure her passion-turned-business venture stays fulfilling, Zhu is focused on creating art and strengthening her skills, versus meeting deadlines and product demand. That’s why she prioritizes art shows and launches meaningful projects, such as the Lunar New Year collection she recently worked on. She engages with Zhuology followers on social media rather than pushing sales or reach. It’s similar to her approach at art shows, where she has meaningful conversations with those in attendance.

“I want my ceramics to show others that art can be impactful, representation is vital, and we do deserve to be here,” she said.