KEJUN LIU
Meet Kejun Liu, a budding artist and model whose creative journey began amidst academic pressures in China. Discovered her passion for modeling and makeup in college, Kejun draws inspiration from Monet to convey emotions tied to global events. Join us as she discusses the role of art and fashion in society, balancing diverse interests, and her aspirations for the future.
How would you describe your creative journey and what led you to pursue art and modeling?
In my family, almost everyone is doing something related art and fashion. I didn’t like art when I was a child because in China, children are encouraged to pursue an excellent GPA. I started to understand art in college as an international student. I enjoy doing modeling because I love doing makeup and I have a lot of clothes, I want to capture myself in different styles.
Can you tell us about a significant moment in your life that had a major impact on your artistic expression or career choices?
I’m still an undergraduate student and modeling is one of my hobbies. I wanted to be a pilot who owns an enterprise and sometimes help people to counter terrorism when I was young. Thanks to my supportive family, I started to learn flying at 14 and after I got my private license, I am now paying to learn fighting jet. My family also funded my first company when I was 17, part of the projects are about international humanitarian assistance to people who are suffering from extremism. So I have time to do discover the beauty of art. But there is something significant, I experienced a terrorist attack in Paris when I was there to hold a private art show. I then painted the scene with eyeshadow and nail colors, everyone was deeply touched by the emotion inside the painting and someone asked if I can sell it to him.
As an artist, what do you find most rewarding and challenging about your creative process?
Sometimes I just lost my thoughts and can’t figure out what to create to better address certain social issues.
Are there any particular artists, photographers, or designers who have influenced your work or inspired you in your creative endeavors?
I learn from everyone and everything. I think Monet is the one who inspired me the most. I have been to his hometown and I did feel his emotions. His artworks are so peace and meaningful!
What are some of the key themes or emotions you aim to convey through your art and modeling, and why are they important to you?
I cover emotions that related to the most up to date events globally.
How do you manage to balance your academic pursuits, your modeling, and your artistic work, and do they ever intersect or influence each other?
I’m good at study so there’s nothing for me to worry about. Learning things is one of my favorite things. They don’t really intersect with each other because I prefer creat brand new things.
In your opinion, what is the role of art and fashion in society, and how do they contribute to cultural and social conversations?
They are the reflection. Sometimes they can be ironic and sometimes they can show collective emotions. Also, they are the way to preserve and express cultures.
Could you share a personal story or experience that has shaped your perspective and approach to art and creativity?
There was a Chinese immigrant (she has her wedding studio in LA) who launched at me and said “people like you would never be accepted by anybody! You are super ugly and you should be shame for being a female! The real nice people are those who can be on magazine cover, but you will never be one of them.” I was shocked by her vulgar comments and feel so sorry for her.
What she didn’t know is that I have been shooting for commercial and fashion for years, I do believe that I have a great taste for fashion in my gene. No one asked me to be a model, I just took care of my outfits and makeups myself and shooting for my cousin and friend’s final exams (they are photography major in USC).
When you’re not immersed in the world of art and modeling, what are your other hobbies and interests that you’re passionate about?
I love tactical combat training, flying, hunting, Krav Maga, weapons collecting and so on. My family supports me to learn all those hobbies and I do have achievements.
Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations in your artistic and modeling career, and what do you hope to achieve or explore in the future?
I wish I could create more art works when I still can. I might need to take care of my family business or my company one day or I may join the UN counter terrorism team since it has been one of my dreams.
KEJUN LIU @gas_k.l
