Rising Stars: Meet Yifei Jin “BarbieKIM”

Today, we’re delighted to introduce you to Yifei Jin, artistically known as BarbieKIM.

Hi Yifei, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I go by the artist’s name BarbieKim. I was born in the Tibetan area and raised in Chengdu. Now, I am based in New York. I have a diverse background that includes electronic engineering, communication design, illustration, and computer arts. This background has given me the ability to create multi-media art that incorporates a wide range of techniques.

I primarily focus on using game engines and other 3D software to create CG work that contains visual effects and animation. In addition to this, I also create illustrations and independent publications using riso printing techniques. I utilize programming techniques to enhance my artwork. For example, I use Arduino to create interactive installations and Python to create digital assets that serve as artist plugins.

Currently, I am working as a technical artist to develop immersive XR projects for entertainment and promotion. My ultimate goal is to present two core philosophies: reinterpreting human ritual culture in a realistic but imaginative way using my computer arts ability and appreciating the beauty of daily life by drawing illustrations.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has not been smooth at all; it has been very much like an adventure. Switching mindsets from an engineering background to an artistic one was a major challenge for me. Previously, I was used to a logical pipeline where there was a correct answer for each task, but art is very unpredictable, and there is no one correct answer. Initially, I struggled with acquiring my own visual language, meaning I was unable to freely express myself using my own art style. Additionally, I had limited knowledge of artistic thinking. I did not know what to express or how to express it. It took me two years. After getting my hands dirty by creating prints, jewelry designs, figure drawings, and sculptures, I gradually found my way of creating art and developed my core philosophy.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in two main mediums: CG animation and illustration.

Recently, I co-directed a 7-minute-long CG film called “The Path of the Knight” with two other directors. The film is medieval Gothic-themed and set in the 15th century. It tells the story of a knight who abandons his duties for self-recognition during a time of persecution. I am responsible for VFX, technical pipeline, animation, motion captures, environment design, and graphic design as a technical artist and 3D generalist. The film has received 11 selective film festival awards and one grand jury award for Best Animation and Best VFX.

I also create illustrations. My ongoing project, NY View, captures the essence of daily life in New York City through a stunning collection of life journal illustrations. Drawing inspiration from the bustling metropolis and its inhabitants, I bring the city view to life with bright, colorful illustrations that have a sense of humor. Recently, my work has been included in Printed Matter’s distribution program, and I also publish other series of illustrations using riso prints and other techniques as an independent publisher.

My artwork is the reflection of my own personality and positive beliefs, which I always try to incorporate.

My goal is to combine cutting-edge image-processing technology to reveal culture-related imaginative worlds. I want to bring warmth and immersion to my visual artwork by using my highly integrated techniques on both the art and programming sides.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
I believe the most important lesson I’ve learned is to avoid being in a hurry. The path towards success in the arts is a long one, and it’s not like math, where I can hit milestones by solving problems with correct answers. Art requires time to think, and I need to ask myself if the results are good enough or not. I’ve learned to be more patient with myself and give myself plenty of time to think and grow in my own unique way. Being an artist isn’t about being super smart and correct about everything, but for me, it’s about being distinguishable and bringing power to my audience. I’ve learned to grow at a slow pace, and I can confidently say that I’m on the right track now.

Pricing:

• NY View Riso Zine $12
• ブタウサギ喫茶 Riso Prints $15

Contact Info:

• Website: https://barbiekim.net
• Instagram: @barbiekim_illustration @nyviews_illus @babarbiekim