Today we’d like to introduce you to Maya Wang.
Hi Maya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Yes, hi! I’m Maya Wang, a queer, first-generation Chinese American artist, designer, DJ, and model. I was born and raised in New York, attended college in Shanghai, and moved to Columbia, South Carolina, about two years ago. I have pursued various creative endeavors, from graphic design to music production. My current passion is DJing as a form of self-expression and community building.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, it’s been a relatively smooth road, for which I am incredibly grateful. I had some initial struggles when I first moved to South Carolina, away from the community and cultural hub of New York, and I was still determining if I’d be able to find something like that here. It was a fresh start, but I felt like I didn’t have a sense of identity. In search of a sense of belonging, I began exploring my interests locally. I had a bit of self-doubt coming into a space I knew nothing about. Luckily, the more I embraced my passions, the more I integrated into the various communities. Fashion and modeling were an excellent way to meet new people who shared my interests and collaborate with local photographers and designers. From there, I also began to dive into the music scene, going to shows and events. I connected with many talented individuals through music, eventually giving me the confidence to start DJing.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an equal part visual and musical artist, so my work encompasses various mediums. As a graphic designer and artist, I create multiple visuals, from branding assets to event flyers. My projects as an artist encompass painting, printmaking, fashion, makeup, and photography. As a musician, I am currently known for DJing, and I’ve also started producing my music. In a way, I don’t specialize in anything, as my goal has been to seek personal growth by trying and creating things that I enjoy. But if I were to pinpoint a specialization, I would have found a lot of fulfillment in DJing, and I’m very proud of my growth thus far. I love to spin disco, soul, funk, house, and garage music, and it brings me so much joy to share my favorite songs with everyone on my sets.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Many individuals have helped me reach where I am today. It may sound far-fetched, but everyone I’ve encountered has contributed to my artistic path. First and foremost, my wonderful husband has been my biggest cheerleader and #1 supporter throughout all the trials, tribulations, and triumphs in every aspect of my life. However, I’d like to credit a specific group of people here in Columbia for my success as a DJ, Folk Tech—a DJ & artist collective that I am now a part of, comprised of my talented and inspiring friends. When I began going to the raves and sets they were putting on around Columbia, they welcomed me with open arms and motivated and encouraged me to start my DJ career. Upon embarking on that journey, I was also met with unwavering support by my friends and peers in the fashion & modeling community. I’d consider everyone in Folk Tech my mentors, as they’ve all taught me, in their ways, what it means to be a DJ. By sharing their knowledge, introducing me to new music, and consistently providing opportunities for all of us to learn and develop, Folk Tech has given me much more self-confidence and a more profound love for the craft.
Contact Info:
- Website: mayawang.art
- Instagram: instagram.com/mayaywang
- Youtube: youtube.com/@mayaywang
- SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/mayaywang
Image Credits
Jamaal Josef, Cait Barnes, Marc Fleurinor, Michael Hull, Judah Townsend
