Today we’d like to introduce you to Yaqi Zhang.
Hi Yaqi, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I began my academic journey as a science student, influenced by societal expectations. However, my heart always leaned towards the arts. Despite excelling in science, the realization struck me as I approached graduation that a life dominated by mathematics wasn’t my true calling. Against expectations, I pivoted towards art.
The transition from science to art marked a challenging but rewarding period. Teaching myself art was tough yet enjoyable, leading me to discover a passion for animation. This passion guided me through two years of formal art education, where I not only honed my technical skills but also formed valuable connections with like-minded friends.
Post-graduation, I ventured into collaboration, joining forces with some of the most creative individuals and teams. This experience has been transformative, exposing me to the beauty of the world, art, and creation.
The collaborative environment has been a wellspring of inspiration. Learning from diverse perspectives has expanded my artistic horizons. The past 12 months have seen significant growth in my willingness to collaborate, opening myself to feedback and insights. This collaborative journey has been instrumental in my ongoing artistic exploration, influencing how I tell my story, connect with others, and contribute to the vibrant world of art. The invaluable lessons learned from collaborating with creative minds continue to shape my artistic evolution, emphasizing the richness of shared experiences and the limitless possibilities that unfold when minds come together.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey from science to art has been anything but a smooth road. One of the initial struggles was navigating the family expectations that favored a science major for success and stability. The transition to art, although fueled by passion, came with its own set of challenges. Self-teaching art was tough, and the pressure to conform to a science-dominated environment added a layer of difficulty.
During my formal art education, imposter syndrome and the constant comparison to more experienced peers added a psychological challenge. The struggle wasn’t just academic but also internal – finding confidence in my artistic voice and overcoming the fear of judgment.
Post-graduation, the shift to collaboration brought new challenges. Opening myself up to feedback and revisions was initially daunting. However, embracing this collaborative mindset became a significant growth point for me.
While the journey has been marked by hurdles, each challenge has been a stepping stone. Navigating these struggles has not only shaped my artistic skills but also fostered resilience, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of the complexities within the creative realm.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in the dynamic realms of motion graphics animation and interactive design, where my passion for art converges with my background in science. What sets me apart is not only my technical prowess but also my unique approach to storytelling, inspired by a childhood love for music, movies, and animation. The stories I tell are a fusion of my experiences, childhood influences, and a keen sense of sub-cultural aesthetics. It’s in these stories that I find a connection between me and artistic endeavors. My known symbol in art encompasses themes of childhood nostalgia, sub-culture, and fashion, coupled with graphics reminiscent of child-like drawings. This distinctive blend forms the hallmark of my creations.
What truly sets me apart is my artistic methodology. I infuse known techniques with my personal touch, often influenced by a diverse range of music. It’s not merely about creating art but creating an experience – one that resonates emotionally and engages the audience. My willingness to share ideas and embrace collaboration further underscores my commitment to a unique, collaborative, and emotionally resonant approach to art.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
The most pivotal characteristic that I attribute to my success is the seamless integration of collaborative spirit into my artistic journey. The willingness to collaborate has not only opened doors to diverse perspectives but has also fostered an environment where listening, sharing, and humility play integral roles. This characteristic extends beyond merely working with others; it embodies a genuine openness to ideas, an eagerness to listen and learn, and a humble acknowledgment that collective creativity often yields the most enriching results.
An essential facet of my artistic journey involves creating interactive installations where audience feedback takes center stage. This is where my collaborative characteristics shine. The willingness to listen becomes crucial, ensuring that the interactive experience resonates with the audience. The act of sharing ideas extends beyond collaboration with peers; it includes a dialogue with those who engage with my work. The humility to embrace feedback has not only refined my creations but has also enhanced the overall impact on the audience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kikizhang.art/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiki-yaqi-zhang/
