Meet Yuan Zhang | Creative Developer & Data Experience Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yuan Zhang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yuan, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
From a young age, I was captivated by the endless possibilities within the realm of technology, which ultimately steered me towards a creative career in design. The exhilarating fusion of technology and emotional experience has always been a driving force for me, leading me to explore how computational design can weave together powerful narratives.

In my groundbreaking work ‘Look Back Through Fog’, I leveraged machine learning to unearth hidden connections within vast datasets related to global war history. This project was more than an artistic endeavor; it was a deep dive into the unseen, a quest to reveal stories concealed within numbers and facts. The fascinating, often unexpected outcomes that algorithms presented were nothing short of a revelation. This journey into the depths of data, where art meets algorithm, has been the most thrilling and fulfilling experience of my professional life.

Each project is a new adventure, a chance to uncover the poetry in the precision of data, to tell stories that would otherwise remain untold. It’s not just about the end product but the journey of discovery that gets us there. This intersection of technology, art, and narrative is where I found my calling, and it continues to inspire and challenge me every day.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My artistry thrives at the intersection of the virtual and real worlds, leveraging machine learning to offer audiences new data-driven experiences. While many artists gravitate towards creating joyful and lighthearted gaming experiences, my focus is on exploring the humanistic values that can be unearthed through digital art. I am fascinated by the unique logic of algorithms, which often operate in ways beyond even the engineers’ understanding. This mysterious aspect of technology is where I find the most intrigue and inspiration.

The core of my challenge has been to interpret and articulate the relationship between technology and information, and between technology and storytelling, from a human perspective. Simplifying complex technological concepts to bridge the gap between our intrinsic emotions and the logic of machines is no small feat. However, as I delved deeper into the technological realm, I began to uncover similarities and connections between these seemingly disparate entities. This understanding forms the foundation of my work.

My journey hasn’t been easy. It involved a relentless quest to comprehend and harness technology in a way that resonates on a human level. The lessons learned along this path have been invaluable, teaching me patience, persistence, and the importance of continuous learning.

What I aim to share with the world through my art is a glimpse into the ‘mind’ of computers, offering a new lens to view our world. It’s not just about showcasing technology’s capabilities, but about revealing the untapped emotional and narrative potential that lies within. My goal is to not only captivate my audience with the beauty and complexity of digital art but also to encourage them to ponder the deeper humanistic values that this technology can help us explore.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Living in New York, the city’s diversity and vibrancy never cease to amaze me. If my best friend were visiting, I’d ensure they experienced the multifaceted charm of this metropolis.

We’d start by visiting New York’s tallest skyscraper. Standing atop this architectural marvel, one can truly grasp the city’s grandeur, with a panoramic view that stretches for miles. It’s a breathtaking introduction to New York’s fancy side, where the skyline tells stories of ambition and dreams.

Next, we’d explore the artistic heartbeat of the city in the gallery-lined streets of SoHo. This area is a treasure trove of small galleries showcasing emerging artists. The raw energy and unique atmosphere here promise an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the future of art.

A visit to the iconic Grand Central Station is also a must. It’s more than just a transit hub; it’s a testament to New York’s bustling life, where you can feel the pulse of the city as New Yorkers hustle to their various destinations.

Throughout the week, we’d indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene, from classic New York pizza to upscale dining experiences. We’d find time to relax in the serene expanse of Central Park, a green oasis amidst the urban landscape. Evening walks across the Brooklyn Bridge would offer stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, especially at sunset.

And, of course, no trip to New York is complete without experiencing its vibrant nightlife, exploring cozy jazz bars or the latest rooftop lounges.

In essence, my itinerary would be a blend of iconic landmarks, artistic corners, and everyday New York life, showcasing why this city is a microcosm of the world, brimming with excitement, culture, and endless discoveries.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
John Maeda’s work has been a cornerstone in my creative journey. His insights on computational design, particularly from his book ‘How to Speak Machine,’ were a revelation to me. The way he elucidates ‘what is a machine’ and introduces key concepts like LOOPS, LARGE, LIVING, INCOMPLETE, INSTRUMENTED, and IMBALANCE, opened up a new world of possibilities. This fresh perspective on computers transformed how I approach my work and life, both practically and strategically.

Maeda’s thoughts motivated me to explore collaborations with programming in my projects, such as ‘Look Back Through Fog.’ His vision of technology as an integral, living part of storytelling has profoundly influenced my integration of machine learning as a creative tool. It’s his pioneering spirit in blending technology with design that I find most inspiring, leading me to embrace computers not just as tools, but as fundamental partners in my creative process. So, my shoutout goes to John Maeda, whose work has been pivotal in shaping my approach to computational design and storytelling.

Website: https://zooofzane.cargo.site/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zooofzane/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuan-zhang-303125104/