Today we’d like to introduce you to Chuan Ching Ho.
Hi Chuan Ching, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am Chuan Ching Ho, you can call me CC. I am a Motion Designer based in New York City, originally from Taiwan. Although I am in the “so-called” art and design industry, I am not from any art or design background, and art and design have never been the topics I would particularly pay attention to throughout my entire kid and school life. Instead, languages, literature, and history are my all-time enthusiasm, and being a history researcher has always been my first pursuit in my life.
When the moment came to the time that I was pursuing my passion for maps in Japan, I accidentally learned the term “infographic”, though I knew nothing about this at first, with my nerdy spirit I did do my research on it. Then, I was blown away by how art and design could be presented in various ways and forms to serve multiple purposes, and more even they could be a nifty tool for better communication and expression. Later, I decided to steer my life path from history researcher to motion design.
I know it is a quite change in my life, but I was really fascinated by the idea of the infographic.
As I just mentioned, my history research was amid 17th-century world maps. When I did the PowerPoint presentation, I always thought that if I could use “moving maps” (yeah, that’s what I called it at that time, but actually it is animated maps which I learned later, lol), it would enhance the clearer expression, communication and interaction for my audience. And mostly, it would be much more fun to learn history through the moving/ interesting maps, not just the still images which probably could cause extra confusion if the explanation gets complicated LOL!
After I decided to pursue my dream in motion graphics, I started to learn the related programs and software. To learn and understand motion design more fully, I also built up my portfolio and tried to submit my application to the School of Visual Arts then I was fortunate to get admission to the Computer Arts MFA program!!
And then I became a motion designer just that naturally after my graduation : )
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would definitely say it is a really challenging path, especially considering I am not from an art and design background. I need to learn everything from scratch.
In the beginning, I felt that the biggest challenge was learning the relevant software, and I had to learn multiple software simultaneously because motion graphics involve the use of several software tools concurrently, so I had to become proficient in them all.
However, it was very challenging for me at the time because my computer usage was primarily limited to web browsing, and I only knew how to use Microsoft Word at most. So, when I started learning multiple software programs, I not only had to understand the basic functions of each software individually, but I also had to comprehend their applications in relation to one another. Every step of the way felt like a new world and uncharted territory for me. Even after going through tutorials multiple times, I still felt like I only partially grasped the concepts. So, I had to push through and follow the tutorials, practicing relentlessly and dedicating time to gradually understand and improve.
I think this is also why I later attempted to prepare a portfolio and apply to SVA. I wanted to explore whether there were other ways to understand Motion Graphics and whether my self-guided learning was keeping me on the right track without deviation. Haha!
So, later on, when I found out that I had been accepted, I was truly happy. I felt that all my prior efforts had earned me a ticket to the world of motion graphics. However, I also knew very well that this challenge was just beginning!
Because I didn’t come from an art and design background, I’ve always been aware that I need to work harder and double down on my learning. I have so much to catch up!
Certainly, given that not only my classmates and teachers at SVA but also many colleagues I’ve encountered in the workplace have received training in art and design. They often have a natural ability to apply relevant knowledge and methods in project communication. On the other hand, I often find myself unable to grasp these concepts immediately, so I frequently need to ask what a specific industry term means when I hear it. Afterward, I dedicate time to learning and filling in those knowledge or method gaps on my own.
Actually, even up to now, I’m still learning a lot from my colleagues about things I didn’t know. Additionally, I continue to set aside time for my own learning, exploring new knowledge and software, creating my own projects, and practicing. I believe this is because I’ve truly discovered a deep passion for motion graphics, so I’m willing to learn more and broaden my horizons!
In any case, I feel like I’m constantly on a path of challenges, but I’m very happy!! haha
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a motion designer, meaning I use animation techniques to bring static graphics and elements to life. I see motion design as a form of visual storytelling.
For my client projects, I have created artworks that serve multiple purposes, including commercial branding promotion, art pieces for artists’ personal projects, titles, and ending sequences for independent media films and documentaries, and short animations for app developers.
These artworks are displayed on all major social media platforms, public screens/monitors, fine art installations, building/space mapping, AR events, apps, and videos/films.
I have recently started engaging in activities as an artist. I found my pre-design/ art period experiences really contribute a lot to my personal artworks.
Because of the multicultural and language background I mentioned earlier, I find it fascinating how various languages offer different ways of describing the same subjects, and the unique manner in which languages express ideas truly captures my attention.
So for my personal work, I like to explore the depiction of mental states and the relationship between visual perception, emotions, and auditory encounters. My creative process starts with a single word, a sentence, or even an audio clip. I transform these into visual elements, imbuing static images with fluid motion to create a dynamic visual effect.
My personal animated film has been invited to be showcased at the Samskara Exhibition. Very recently, my personal work was just displayed at the London Underground station; there are more coming exhibitions at the New York and Rome Gallery and the Times Square billboards, which indeed excite me! I also got encouraged to dedicate my time more to my personal work!
However, I think my diverse cultural influence also contributes to my varied aesthetic approach. So, I am able to work on different industries and types of client projects.
So far, I have had the honor of working on various client projects, including Frank Caruso, Paul McCartney, Jenny Holzer, Microsoft, Samsung, Dell, Cartier, Adidas, Virgil Abloh, Marriott, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Fontainebleau Miami, Maybelline, NYX Cosmetics, The Telly Awards, and more.
It’s really a wide range of spectrum, right?
And what am I most proud of? I think it was my very first gig when I just graduated from SVA. It is more like I felt very grateful to have this opportunity.
As you know, I am not from an art and design background; even if I got myself into an art program, will I be able to work in the industry as a literal motion designer? This was all unknown at that time.
One day I got an email reply which was the one I just sent out for my freelance application 10 minutes ago, it was from Frank. Frank told me how he likes my work., and he would love to work with me. For this point, I am already so happy that I was able to secure a job as a motion designer after all, I was newly grad and totally new in the industry!
Later, I understood that Frank is a two-time Emmy Awards cartoonist winner, and the project we worked on was for Paul McCartney!! The thrill wasn’t just about entering the world of motion design; my very first gig in the industry went far beyond my wildest expectations!
I genuinely appreciated that Frank was interested in working with me, and he provided valuable guidance. He also shared feedback about how Paul McCartney appreciated the motion pieces I created, which were paired with his iconic songs. This first gig significantly boosted my confidence as I embarked on my career as a motion designer in the industry!
I also have another project that left me with the same level of gratitude and is equally hard to forget! It was Jenny Holzer’s 10-year refresh project at 7 World Trade Center. I was fortunate to be selected to work on this project, which provided me with the opportunity to collaborate with the artist and IT team on this extensive LED installation, taking it from concept to completion.
How was the project unforgettable? Not only did I learn many aspects during the production process, including insights from the artist and IT team, but it has also been continuously streaming since its completion.
And the presence itself is hard to ignore too. This massive LED installation occupied the 1st floor of the building’s glassy lobby, spanning 65 feet behind the front desk. The motion pieces played continuously, taking 1.5 days to cycle through all the contents before starting over!
In all, I see the Frank/Paul project as the catalyst for my motion graphic career, setting it in motion, and Jenny Holzer’s project as the landmark that reminds me to explore as much as I can—there is always the potential to do more!!
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
In terms of good luck, I never expected that I would be lucky enough to discover my passion for motion graphics. It has not only ignited my potential in this field but also allowed me to realize that I can truly become a motion designer. This has now become something I’m deeply passionate about and eager to dedicate my time and effort to pursuing.
Furthermore, my collaborations with experts from diverse backgrounds and my experiences with outstanding colleagues have undoubtedly enriched my skills and knowledge. Each project and partnership has been a valuable opportunity for my learning and growth.
Working on projects for clients across different industries with varying styles has also contributed to my self-awareness and professional development. It’s clear that I’m committed to continuous improvement and further honing my abilities as a motion designer. My passion and dedication are key ingredients for my continued success in this exciting field!!
When it comes to bad luck, in the production process, there are often many changes and unexpected situations. Sometimes, surprises come in the form of last-minute changes from clients or software suddenly crashing. These disruptions can create stress and pressure in both my personal life and work. Over time, they can even have an impact on my physical health. That’s why I make a conscious effort to prioritize my physical well-being through regular exercise. These practices help me maintain a positive attitude and stay physically fit in both my work and life.
In summary, good luck and bad luck are inevitable parts of life, shaping both my personal and professional development. What’s crucial is how I strive to make the most of opportunities when luck is on my side and how I maintain resilience and a positive mindset during periods of bad luck, enabling me to overcome challenges and continue moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chuanchingho.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cching_hooo/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuan-ching-ho-660922140/
- Other: https://www.behance.net/cchooo You can find my very first work, an animated map, the Taiwan Fruits History series here!
Image Credits
All credits by Chuan Ching Ho
