Growing Up Global: How Living in Different Cultures Shaped My Creative Voice

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In a world where creativity thrives on perspective, I believe one of my greatest strengths lies in my adaptability and open-mindedness. Growing up between cultures—having been born in Israel and raised in Shanghai—shaped the way I see the world and, more importantly, how I approach my work. My experiences have not only given me a deep appreciation for diversity but also the ability to collaborate and connect with people from all walks of life.

A Love for Asian Culture and Its Influence

Living in Shanghai for a significant part of my life instilled in me a profound love for Asian culture—its traditions, art, design, and even the unspoken nuances that shape everyday life. From the rich history of calligraphy and ink paintings to the vibrant energy of contemporary cities, Asian aesthetics have influenced the way I approach visual storytelling.

I find beauty in minimalism—how a single brushstroke or carefully composed frame can convey so much meaning. This philosophy often inspires my creative process, reminding me to strip down my work to its core: the story, the emotion, and the visual impact. Whether I’m creating films, taking photographs, or sketching ideas for a project, this balance of simplicity and depth continues to play an essential role in my work.

Adaptability: Thriving in Any Setting

Moving between cultures has taught me how to adapt quickly to new environments. Whether it's adjusting to different creative workflows, team dynamics, or learning to overcome language barriers, I’ve developed an ability to find common ground no matter the situation. I’ve worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I genuinely enjoy the collaborative process of exchanging ideas and perspectives.

In creative projects, adaptability is key. Ideas change, plans evolve, and challenges arise, but I approach every situation with flexibility and an open mind. For instance, when working on a film project, I don’t hold onto one fixed vision. I’m open to reimagining scenes based on the team’s feedback, exploring new angles, or changing elements that better suit the mood or story. I find this fluid approach not only improves the final outcome but also helps teams feel more connected and involved in the creative process.

Working With All Kinds of People

Creativity doesn’t happen in isolation. I’ve been fortunate to work with people from different cultures, disciplines, and backgrounds, and each collaboration has taught me something new. Whether it’s brainstorming with a team, collaborating on set, or sharing ideas with editors, I value the contributions of others and believe the best work comes from shared effort.

When working with people, I focus on building a positive and open environment where everyone feels heard. I like to be the person who brings ideas to the table—someone who initiates conversations, sketches ideas, or creates shot lists to help the team visualize our goals. I’ve found that taking the first step often sparks creativity in others and helps bring a project to life.

Being open-minded has allowed me to embrace different viewpoints, which I believe is essential for storytelling. After all, every story—whether in photography, film, or art—reflects the world around us, and that world is filled with diverse voices. Working with people who challenge my perspective keeps me growing both creatively and personally.

Open-Minded Creativity

My experiences living between cultures taught me that creativity has no borders. It’s universal, yet deeply personal. I love stepping into unfamiliar territories—whether it’s learning new techniques, experimenting with unconventional ideas, or diving into cultural elements that expand my vision as an artist.

For me, being open-minded isn’t just about embracing new ideas; it’s about pushing boundaries. It’s asking “what if?” when others say “why?” It’s believing that the best work often comes from taking risks, adapting to change, and learning from those around you.

A Global Perspective

Growing up between Israel and Shanghai gave me a global perspective that continues to shape how I connect with people and ideas. I bring that perspective into my creative work, approaching every project with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to adapt. Whether I’m working on a film, designing visuals, or capturing a story through photography, I aim to create work that resonates with people from all backgrounds.

At the heart of it, my love for creativity stems from my love for people—their stories, their ideas, and the connections we share. I’m grateful for the experiences that have allowed me to collaborate across cultures, and I look forward to expanding those opportunities as I continue to grow in my field.

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