Letter from the editor

Thirty years ago, I arrived in Los Angeles, stepping into my first year of college as an eager art student. At the time, I envisioned immersing myself in various foundational courses before choosing a specific path. Illustration, graphic design, and automotive design were among the most coveted disciplines—this was before the world witnessed the meteoric rise of animation.

Yet, from a young age, my heart belonged to fashion design. I was captivated by the ever-evolving landscape of style, watching trends unfold with each passing year. Growing up, I found inspiration in Hong Kong’s iconic celebrities, whose presence on television ignited my dreams, though I had no idea how to bring them to life. Immigrating to the United States in the early ‘90s opened my world to new opportunities and a fresh perspective on what was possible.

One day, in conversation with a classmate, she remarked, “I don’t think it’s easy for an Asian to make it in fashion.” Those words, though unintentional, planted doubt in my mind. In that moment, I abandoned the idea of breaking into the fashion industry entirely, shifting my focus to other creative pursuits.

Fast forward two or three decades, and the landscape has transformed. Asian artists are no longer on the sidelines—they are at the forefront, shaping industries across the globe. Fashion icons like Vera Wang, Jason Wu, and Alexander Wang have made indelible marks on haute couture. In cinema, visionaries such as Ang Lee, Michelle Yeoh, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li have captivated Hollywood. Across music, fashion, and the arts, talents of mixed Asian heritage—including Darren Criss, Nicole Scherzinger, Olivia Munn, Vanessa Hudgens, Bruno Mars, Ne-Yo, and Tyson Beckford—continue to redefine what it means to be a global artist. Their journeys inspire new generations to dream bigger, push boundaries, and claim their space in the creative world.

Today, Asian artists are blending tradition with modernity, offering fresh perspectives in fashion, music, film, and art. Their success is a testament to resilience, ambition, and unwavering determination. It’s about hard work, perseverance, and the courage to thrive against the odds.

At the end of the day, your dreams are yours to pursue. Do not let outside voices dictate your path. Create your own opportunities, shape your own destiny. Your background and cultural heritage are strengths, not limitations. Stay focused, be relentless, and believe in your potential—because anything is possible.

This special issue celebrates a remarkable group of Asian artists—each a visionary in their own right. From photographers and designers to models and beauty experts, these creatives bring their artistry to the world, enriching industries with their talent. As we step into 2025, we are committed to continuing our mission of spotlighting extraordinary talents from all corners of the globe. We cannot wait for you to experience what we have in store. Enjoy the first spring issue of 2025—this is just the beginning.

With appreciation,

Francis Wong

Editor-In-Chief