< Back to All News

Recent Interviews with Klimt02's 2024 New Talent Nominee Qianying Zhu

January 3rd, 2025

Jewelry artist and recent Cranbrook Academy of Art alumna Qianying (Rachel) Zhu (MFA Metalsmithing 2024) was recently interviewed by SHOUTOUT LA, Canvas Rebel, and Bold Journey. In December, Zhu was nominated by Klimt02 for their 2024 New Talent Awards.

Zhu credits her grandfather, a well-known painter, for developing her love for creative pursuits as a child. His knowledge of traditional Chinese art forms drew her into the craftsmanship of ceramics, seal carving, and Zisha pottery. In middle school she had the opportunity to learn and experiment with handmade jewelry, ultimately leading her to pursue jewelry and metalsmithing in undergraduate and graduate study.

Qianying Zhu, Oops, Necklace, 2024. Sterling silver, resin, thread, cotton cloth. 9″ x 11″ x 1.6″

Zhu’s brand Zoo Zoo Jewelry is inspired by the Chinese zodiac, which she reinterprets through fresh and playful colors, forms, and arrangements. Through her works, she embraces the opportunity to bridge cultural connections and bring elements of Chinese heritage to contemporary fashion jewelry.

Her 2024 collection focused on a modern zodiac with pearls and her forthcoming 2025 collection will blend zodiac symbols with jade.

Qianying Zhu, G2024, Necklace, 2024.

 

Learn more:

Meet Qianying Zhu | Jewelry Designer & Artist – SHOUTOUT LA

Qianying (Rachel) Zhu New Talents Award Nominee 2024 – Klimt02

Meet Qianying Zhu – Canvas Rebel 

Meet Qianying Zhu – Bold Journey

2024 Zodiac Collection – Qyzhu Jewelry

Metalsmithing at Cranbrook Academy of Art