Meet Ming Chi | lead concept artist

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

Hi Ming, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a career in the artistic and creative field because of my passion for visual storytelling and the ability to bring imagination to life. Growing up, I was always captivated by the worlds created in video games, movies, and illustrations. This fascination led me to pursue studies in game development and industrial design, where I could combine my love for technology and art.

During my time at art school and later at NetEase game studio in China, I had the opportunity to work on projects like “Justice Online” and “Onmyoji,” which further fueled my passion for creating immersive experiences through art. My involvement in projects like “The Wandering Earth” series allowed me to explore various aspects of concept art, environment design, and visual effects, shaping my skills and perspective as an artist.

Now, as an art lead concept artist at GENUN Studio, I continue to push boundaries and explore new techniques to bring creative visions to life. Collaborating on outsourcing projects for Sony Pictures has provided me with valuable insights into the industry and allowed me to contribute to projects with global reach.

Ultimately, I pursued a career in the artistic and creative field because it allows me to channel my creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for storytelling into meaningful and impactful projects that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’d be delighted to share more about my art and journey as an artist and game developer.

What sets me apart from others in the field is my interdisciplinary background in game development and industrial design, coupled with my diverse experience across various roles in the entertainment industry. This unique combination allows me to approach my art with a multidisciplinary perspective, blending technical proficiency with creative vision to create immersive and captivating experiences.

I’m particularly proud of my ability to seamlessly transition between different aspects of art production, whether it’s conceptualizing fantastical worlds, designing intricate environments, crafting detailed characters, or bringing dynamic keyframe illustrations to life. This versatility not only keeps my work fresh and engaging but also enables me to contribute effectively to a wide range of projects, from video games and films to virtual reality experiences and beyond.

My journey to where I am today has been anything but easy. Like many in the creative industry, I faced numerous challenges and setbacks along the way, from self-doubt and rejection to tight deadlines and demanding clients. However, each obstacle served as an opportunity for growth and learning, pushing me to hone my skills, expand my knowledge, and develop resilience in the face of adversity.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance and tenacity in pursuing one’s passions. Despite the inevitable setbacks and failures, it’s essential to stay committed to your goals, maintain a positive attitude, and never stop striving for excellence. Additionally, I’ve come to realize the power of collaboration and networking in the creative industry. Building meaningful relationships with fellow artists, industry professionals, and mentors has not only opened doors to new opportunities but also enriched my artistic journey immeasurably.

Ultimately, what I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I’m deeply passionate about creating immersive and impactful visual experiences that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether it’s through my art, storytelling, or innovative design solutions, I strive to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought, leaving a lasting impression on those who encounter my work.

My story is one of perseverance, passion, and creative exploration, and I hope to continue pushing boundaries, challenging conventions, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of art and entertainment.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Absolutely! If my best friend was visiting for a week-long trip, I’d want to show them the best of what the area has to offer. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning: Welcome my friend to the city and take them for a delicious brunch at a local cafe, such as Tartine Bakery.
Afternoon: Explore the iconic landmarks of the city, starting with a stroll through Golden Gate Park and a visit to the de Young Museum to admire its impressive art collection.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the Mission District, like Foreign Cinema, known for its eclectic cuisine and outdoor film screenings.
Day 2: Adventure and Culture

Morning: Embark on a day trip to Alcatraz Island to explore the historic prison and take in stunning views of the city skyline.
Afternoon: Head back to the city and spend the afternoon wandering through the vibrant streets of Chinatown, browsing the shops and sampling delicious dim sum.
Evening: Attend a live performance at the iconic Castro Theatre, known for its classic movie screenings and lively events.
Day 3: Food and Wine

Morning: Take a scenic drive to Napa Valley for a day of wine tasting at world-renowned wineries like Domaine Carneros and Sterling Vineyards.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a picturesque vineyard, indulging in farm-to-table cuisine paired with exquisite wines.
Evening: Return to the city and dine at a top-rated seafood restaurant along the waterfront, such as Waterbar, while taking in breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Head to Muir Woods National Monument for a hike among towering redwood trees, followed by a picnic lunch in the tranquil forest.
Afternoon: Drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Stinson Beach, where we can relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun.
Evening: Return to the city and unwind with dinner and drinks at a cozy neighborhood pub in Hayes Valley, like Smuggler’s Cove, known for its extensive rum selection and laid-back atmosphere.
Day 5: Art and Creativity

Morning: Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Mission District, admiring colorful murals and graffiti masterpieces.
Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) to immerse ourselves in contemporary art and innovative exhibitions.
Evening: Attend a live music performance at the legendary Fillmore Auditorium, known for its intimate atmosphere and eclectic lineup of artists.
Day 6: Shopping and Relaxation

Morning: Spend the morning browsing the boutiques and artisan shops in Union Square, picking up unique souvenirs and gifts.
Afternoon: Treat ourselves to a luxurious spa day at a nearby resort, indulging in massages, facials, and other pampering treatments.
Evening: Enjoy a gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Nob Hill, like Gary Danko, for a memorable culinary experience.
Day 7: Farewell and Fond Memories

Morning: Bid farewell to my friend with a hearty brunch at a cozy cafe in the neighborhood, reminiscing about our unforgettable week together.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Embarcadero, soaking up the sights and sounds of the bustling waterfront.
Evening: Share a final toast at a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city skyline, savoring the memories of our amazing adventures together.
This itinerary combines the best of food, culture, nature, and entertainment, ensuring a week filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.

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?

Certainly! In my journey as an artist and game developer, there have been several individuals and groups whose support and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping my career. First and foremost, I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my family, whose unwavering support and encouragement have been the foundation of my success. Their belief in my talents and dreams has given me the confidence to pursue my passions fearlessly.

I also owe a great deal of gratitude to my professors and mentors at art school, who not only imparted invaluable knowledge and skills but also inspired me to push my creative boundaries and strive for excellence in everything I do. Their guidance and mentorship have been pivotal in shaping my artistic vision and helping me navigate the complexities of the industry.

Additionally, I want to recognize the incredible teams I’ve had the privilege of working with, both at NetEase game studio and other studios like MORE VFX and HuangFan Studio. Collaborating with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds has been an enriching experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunities to learn and grow alongside them.

Last but not least, I want to acknowledge the vibrant and supportive online communities like ArtStation, which have provided me with a platform to showcase my work, connect with fellow artists, and receive valuable feedback and encouragement.

Each of these individuals, groups, and communities has played a unique role in my journey, and I am truly grateful for their contributions to my success.

Website: https://www.artstation.com/cmajore

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ming-chi-1b2bba1b9/

Other: Email: 1999xiaomingming@gmail.com

Image Credits
https://www.artstation.com/cmajore