Today we’d like to introduce you to Sinew Zhang.
Hi Sinew, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am an LA-based digital artist. From a young age, I’ve harbored a deep love for drawing and creativity. It was a childhood passion that never waned. However, when it came time to choose a career path, I decided to follow my fascination with the built environment and artistic aesthetics, leading me to study architecture at Pratt Institute. It was a decision driven by my desire to create and shape physical spaces.
My educational journey in architecture provided a strong foundation in design and aesthetics. But, as the years passed, I engaged in introspection and realized that while I appreciated architecture, my heart yearned for more creative freedom and the ability to craft worlds that were more fantastical and imaginative.
This realization prompted a pivotal decision to switch careers, and I transitioned into the realm of digital art. It was a bold step into the unknown, but it allowed me to unleash my creativity in ways I couldn’t within the confines of architecture. This transformation has been immensely fulfilling, enabling me to craft fantastical environments, sculpt creatures, and delve into cinematic storytelling.
During my year at SCI-Arc, I had the opportunity to explore a wide spectrum of creative endeavors. I ventured into the world of filmmaking and animation, where I not only gained hands-on experience but also had the privilege of creating an award-winning movie. This achievement further fueled my passion for cinematic storytelling.
In addition to filmmaking, I immersed myself in various digital art forms, including digital sculpting and VR sculpting. The freedom to experiment and constantly learn new skills was incredibly liberating and fulfilling. It was during this time that I discovered my true happiness lay in the process of exploration and creativity.
My educational journey, along with my experiences at SCI-Arc, has shaped me into an artist who seeks to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of 3D environment-based art and cinematic storytelling. Today, I stand as a digital artist with a passion for crafting immersive and imaginative experiences. My journey has been one of self-discovery and growth, and it has solidified my commitment to a career where I can continue to create innovative and captivating worlds for audiences to enjoy.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My last year in architecture school was a period of profound struggle and introspection. I came face to face with the stark contrast between the utopian visions we often idealize in architecture and the harsh reality of the field. This realization was painful as I grappled with the disillusionment of my inability to immediately change the world through my designs. It was a time of personal collapse, where I felt powerless and questioned the purpose of my efforts. I even reached a point where I felt adrift without a clear life goal.
Making the decision to re-enter the digital art world was a risky move, driven by a deep desire to follow my heart and learn what truly resonated with me. However, this decision wasn’t without its challenges. I faced skepticism and obstacles from those who doubted the wisdom of my choice.
The learning process in digital art was, at times, tormenting. Progress wasn’t always swift, and I encountered moments of frustration when results didn’t come as quickly as I hoped. Yet, these struggles have been integral to my journey. They’ve molded me into a more resilient artist, determined to persevere despite setbacks and uncertainties.
Through these trials, I’ve emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to the world of digital art, where I can channel my creativity and make meaningful contributions. My journey has taught me the value of staying true to oneself and the importance of resilience in the pursuit of one’s passions.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in 3D environment-based art and cinematic storytelling. My work is known for its exploration of the fantastical and mysterious, blending tradition and imagination to create visually captivating pieces. I work with a variety of techniques, including VR, 3D, and 2D, to infuse fresh visual effects and meanings into my creations. One of my proudest achievements is creating an award-winning movie, “THE FALLEN”. What sets me apart is my unique blend of architectural training and a master’s degree in Fiction and Entertainment, giving me a multidisciplinary approach to digital art. My art aims to provide a fresh perspective on the world, challenging conventional ways of seeing and inspiring viewers to engage in new and captivating ways.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
In addition to my role as a digital artist, I have a unique passion for 2D illustrations. I thoroughly enjoy crafting my own 2D characters and backgrounds, allowing me to explore a different dimension of artistic expression. What truly excites me is the fusion of 2D and 3D art. I find it incredibly fulfilling to combine these two worlds, creating art that blends traditional aesthetics with modern techniques. Moreover, I have a deep affection for using my 3D skills to create fan art for my favorite works. It’s a way for me to pay tribute to the stories and games that have inspired me. For example, I’ve dedicated time to crafting several game animation fan art pieces, where I can immerse myself in the worlds and characters that have left a lasting impact on me. This combination of 2D and 3D, along with my dedication to fanart, allows me to bring a unique and personal touch to my artistic endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sinewzhang.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sinew.zhang/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006278596400
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinew-zhang-5768a6195/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sinewzhang/videos
- Other: https://vimeo.com/user146974361
