Xueni Yang

Xueni is a dynamic multifaceted artist who weaves her dance, acting, and directing background to craft narratives rich in emotion and nuances. Raised amidst diverse cultures, she earned her B.A. at Sarah Lawrence College in New York. Further, she refined her cinematic skills at FAMU in Prague, where she had a chance to study under the mentorship of Bela Tarr.  

 

Embracing a unique perspective that defied traditional boundaries, Xueni crafted films that explored intricate emotional landscapes. Her narratives, marked by harrowing tensions rather than overt conflicts, delve into themes of identity, cultural displacement, illusion, and trauma. Her thesis film, “Fir,” stands a testament to her cinematic aesthetic.

 

Dance has consistently served as a motif in Xueni's work, with "Hush" redefining on-screen movements by treating the camera as a dancer. This innovative approach earned international acclaim.

 

Currently, she is actively engaging in lecturing and mentoring at universities in Prague and China while developing various short and feature film concepts. Moreover, she is on the verge of unveiling 'Fir,' a poignant exploration of identity and the emotional struggles faced by third-culture kids.