Check Out Yinzhu Yao’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yinzhu Yao

Hi Yinzhu, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My educational journey started with a Bachelor of Architecture from Suzhou University of Science and Technology in China, where I developed a strong foundation in architectural theory and design. Actually when I chose this major, I was not aware what it is, just not sure what I wanted to do in the future, and architecture looked not bad, like something about arts, because I was learning painting from childhood. And soon I realized it’s not only arts related, but also technical, so many things to learn. I then pursued a Master of Architecture at Washington University in St. Louis, which not only expanded my technical skills but also exposed me to the latest architectural practices. Currently, I am furthering my education by pursuing a Master of Science in Engineering Management at Trine University to gain the leadership and managerial skills necessary for overseeing complex projects.

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work at some of the world’s most prestigious architectural firms. As a Tech

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?
Absolutely not so smooth. As we know it’s hard to find a job during COVID-19, meanwhile the burden would be heavier when you saw your friends found a position sooner. At that time I did not know what would happen for next moment, many of my classmates came back to hometown, but I insisted my way, and believed I could make it. The biggest strength is – I’m brave, and never escape. Life is always a struggle, but ever-changing. What I have to do is to gain myself, prepare for a good chance and fortune next time. Finally I got a precious opportunity in DC, with my own efforts and a little bit luck.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As I said before, my work often reflects a balance between simplicity and sophistication, with a focus on sustainability and cultural relevance. Apart from that, another point of my work is emotion, especially sorrow, nostalgia, because these emotions often mean there’s an issue to figure out.
In many ways, architects are the ones who shape the concept of “home”, as well as a group to solve problems, which requires us to have good ability to find out the trouble. Besides work, I’m also a photographer and artist, winning some awards and participating in exhibits as well. I’m addicted to capturing sparking moments, keen aesthetic sense and expressive abilities allow me to excel across these creative fields, getting the moods from the world more sensitively.
There is a famous ancient Chinese saying that goes, “Establish the heart for heaven and earth, establish the destiny for the people, inherit the knowledge of past sages, and bring peace to all generations.” I deeply resonate with this message. It speaks to

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I’ve been selected as one of 18 artists out of 335 submissions whose work would be exhibited in Penn Museum in University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, on 3rd November. Welcome to take a look if you have spare time! The project AFTERMATH IN TRIPOLI, a memorial hall for the victims from illegal voyage in Libya, seeks to redefine the traditional perception of graves by transforming the concept into a powerful symbol of reflection and remembrance. And it’s a coincidence that the theme of exhibition is “On the Critical Point: Wanderlust and Nostalgia in the New Age”, which really matches my design thinking.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://yyz-creative.framer.website/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eugeneyee_/

Image Credits
Yixin Geng, Zhiqian Xu, Yongdi Li, Dingdong Tang, Zhaoxiong Han