Rising Stars: Meet Keer Zhao

Today we’d like to introduce you to Keer Zhao.

Hi Keer, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I didn’t really dive into the world of art and design until a few years ago. Back in the day, my focus was entirely on chemistry, with plans to pursue a Ph.D. in the field after graduation. Concurrently, I nurtured a parallel interest in communication art, driven by my passion for films. This interest led me to choose communication art as a hobby major alongside my primary field of study. However, things took a turn in my third year of college when I found myself dedicating more time to films. I decided to go all-in, adding double minors in film production and photography. 

Fast forward to 2020 – that’s when everything changed. I held my first solo exhibition, showcasing my cyanotype works titled ‘The Initial Step.’ It was then that I realized my path was taking an unexpected detour. 

After graduation, I didn’t pursue the chemistry Ph.D. as planned. Instead, I opted for a master’s degree in interactive design. This decision allowed me to delve into the coolest technologies – AR/VR, interactive and immersive installations – marking the beginning of my journey into 3D and visual design. 

Throughout my journey, the common thread has been my passion for storytelling, expressed in a very visual way. Using visuals as a language has always fascinated me, allowing me to articulate the unspeakable. Whether through films, photography, or 3D art, each medium has served as a unique canvas for my narrative expression. Reflecting on my body of work, the underlying theme always remains consistent, even though it manifests in diverse looks and under different names. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are definitely many struggles along the way. One of the most significant hurdles is around maintaining a diverse skill set and remaining adaptable. The rapid evolution of technology, particularly the integration of AI into various aspects of the design process and our daily lives, presents an ongoing challenge. Each new tool introduces a learning curve, and the current landscape demands continuous learning and adaptation as technology evolves. 

In my creative process, technology is not just a tool; it often becomes a collaborative partner. Many instances involve computers handling specific aspects of the design process, allowing me to concentrate on refining concepts, capturing essence, and understanding the underlying reasons for initiating a project. The dynamic interaction between myself and technology involves a constant cycle of experimentation. The more curiosity I bring to this relationship, the more proficient I become in utilizing these tools. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am currently a freelance digital designer specializing in a broad spectrum of creative services. My work encompasses the development of visuals for AR, VR, immersive and interactive installations, virtual productions, and 3D animations. A noteworthy aspect of my professional journey involves extensive collaborations with musicians, contributing to the creation of compelling audio-visual performances, and providing support to theater directors through innovative projection designs. 

A significant facet of my professional portfolio involves working closely with clients to conceptualize and establish distinctive visual languages for their respective products. These products vary widely, ranging from music compositions and performances to the digital identity of artists and even extending to the realm of makeup artistry. In such instances, the visual languages transcend conventional elements such as color, font, and layout, incorporating real-time and interactive visuals or futuristic avatars. My client base spans diverse industries, including fashion, beauty, theater, and music. My most recent project involved designing projection visuals for a play held at the Lenfest Theater at Columbia University. 

In addition to my client-oriented projects, I am actively engaged in a personal undertaking centered around the intriguing concept of “digital skins.” This project begins with my own 3D scan as a foundational element, from which I generate distinct replicas, each featuring subtle variations. These avatars are then situated in different dimensions, each conveying a unique narrative. Serving as layers of my digital skin, these avatars bear a resemblance to me while embodying distinctive characteristics. This project extends beyond the confines of traditional 3D art, incorporating interactive installations. A notable ongoing project within this series, named <Balloon>, showcases the avatar’s skin as a piece of fabric dynamically inflating and deflating within a controlled environment, presenting a unique and artistic form of expression. 

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
There are several ways to find a mentor. You can explore resources available around you, such as the school’s career center, LinkedIn, or through networking. It’s beneficial to identify a specific industry you are interested in or wish to pursue a career in. Once you’ve pinpointed your industry of interest, seek out individuals within that industry who share some common connections with you—whether you are alumni from the same school or attended the same conference. 

For me, the successful method was leveraging resources at my master’s school, where I connected with a mentor who provided valuable suggestions and guidance, particularly during the post-graduation period when I felt most adrift. A mentor is someone whose insights and experiences are incredibly valuable to your professional growth. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.keerzhao.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k.oneear/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keer-zhao/