BIO
Xin Liu is the HAAA’s inaugural artist in residence for Spring 2024. An incredibly versatile, multidisciplinary artist-engineer, she is also the arts curator in the Space Exploration Initiative at MIT Media Lab, and owns a creative technology studio—Slow Immediate, LLC. Her art frequently focuses on deeply existential topics—such as space, metaphysics, and the meaning of human expression. Xin Liu was born in 1991 in Karamay in the Xinjiang province of China to parents that were both surgeons. She recalls that they emphasized the value of continuous learning and financial responsibility while raising her. Ms. Liu obtained her Bachelors of Engineering from Tsinghua University in Beijing and moved to the US—first stopping in NYC—in 2013. She went on to obtain her MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design and her Masters of Science from MIT. This interview begins in her early childhood experiences, before moving on to her initial studies focused on engineering and design. The interview then discusses her move into following her passion for art, which continued in her decision to pursue further education at RISD and MIT. Ms. Liu covers her philosophies on art, which includes fascinating intersections with background in engineering and natural science. She also discusses her exhibitions and specific art projects she has put together, and goes into depth on her artistic style. The interview also touches on discrimination, equity, and her opinions on the immigrant experience. Ms. Liu discusses her values, approach to feedback, and various aspects of her personal life and identity.