An older artist explains how there were no artist studios back in his day.

The artist begins by explaining his daily process of painting.

The artist tells about the intricacies of his very dull painting process. Some people say they want to come watch him painting, but he advises against it. The magic is in the tedium.

The artist describes how he first began painting oil paintings. He copied the paintings on on poker chips confiscated during the cultural revolution.

The painter describes how he would travel all over his city in his teenage years to observe all the different oil painters he could see.

The artist talks about how art progresses and how that progression has to move slowly.

The artist talks about how in his day conversation was more lively and people weren't looking at their phones all the time.

I am from Xinjiang but that doesn't mean I ride horses, it doesn't mean I eat qiegao, it also doesn't mean I am a thief or a terrorist. Listen to these young Xinjiang voices tell you what Xinjiang people are really like.

Even though we explain to others what Xinjiang is like, it is still hard to break down the image mainstream media creates of place like Urumqi. I can only do my best to tell you that Urumqi is not just grassland.

Stereotypes are dangerous, especially if they make up your entire understanding of something or someone. It is important to remember that everything and everyone is multifaceted. Just because one person does something a certain way doesn't mean everyone else does too.

Stereotypes of Xinjiang people don't only create confusion for the general population but also effect how Xinjiang people self-identify themselves.

How do we break down this ugly stereotype of Xinjiang? Both side need to openly communicate and work together to clear up misunderstandings. But where do we start? Start from yourself of course!

Time for some food!

Time for portraits!

Shiyin gives a tour of where she's staying.

Shiyin introduces a pair of contact lenses she finds work well for Hanfu styling.

Shiyin styles Tuan Shen's hair herself.

What treasures await inside the Mingjing Yaji?

Shiyin checks out more merchandise at the Mingjing Yaji.

Shiyin introduces a few friends during her visit to Mingjing.

Shiyin continues to explore life dressed in Hanfu.

Shiyin sets out to find out why there aren't as many young men that are embracing the Hanfu style.

Shiyin speaks with the Hanfu fandom and their journey to discovering Hanfu.