Meet Yadan Tan | Animator & Designer

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

Hi Yadan, why did you pursue a creative career?
This has been a profoundly meaningful and fun journey for me.

I started out as a music student and had never touched fine arts before, let alone animation. In high school, I had a friend who majored in fine arts, I always spending time with her in her studio. One day, the art teacher noticed me hanging around and suggested I should try drawing too, for I spent so much time here, so I tried.

The moment I picked up a pencil and touched the sketch paper, I felt an unexpected calmness. I got hooked on the process of slowly filling up a blank canvas, loved the sound of the pencil lead against the rough paper, and enjoyed the peace drawing brought me. While drawing, I felt a ineffable connection to the world around me. I seemed to melt into the surroundings, touching and feeling the world with my soul instead of my physical body. In those moments, I was not merely an individual; I became a part of the world, a fragment of the universe itself.

So I talked to my family about changing my major. Luckily, my parents were super supportive and respected my decision. From that moment on, it become something I’m passionate about pursuing for the rest of my life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As an animator, my career has seamlessly blended a passion for both Cel Animation and 3D Animation. This journey has been fuelled by creativity, determination and unwavering enthusiasm. Although my initial background was in music, the core of my work has always been to express my ideas and creativity through various mediums. This interdisciplinary background adds unique layers to my work, allowing me to convey emotions and stories more deeply.

What sets my work apart is the integration of different artistic forms. In previous animation projects, I have not only handled the visual creation, but also composed and performed music for my works. I believe this holistic approach allows me to provide a richer experience both visually and aurally, and to convey personal emotions and stories more fully.

The transition from Cel Animation to 3D Animation has been a journey full of challenges and boundless creativity. Mastering the complexities of 3D Animation requires immense patience and dedication, but it has opened up many new creative possibilities for me. As technology evolves, so does the animation industry, and staying abreast of new techniques and methods is essential to maintaining creative vitality. In addition, working with talented animators and artists has not only improved my skills, but also broadened my creative perspective.

I hope people can see that my work is a fusion of passion and art. I strive to push the boundaries of creativity by skilfully blending different art forms to create unique and emotionally resonant pieces. Whether it’s a simple animated short or a complex motion design, my goal is to touch people’s hearts and inspire their imaginations through the wondrous world of animation.

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.
I love to wander aimlessly with my friends through the streets of NYC, especially the art blocks of Chelsea. What I love most is stumbling upon hidden art galleries and museums tucked away in unassuming facades. These serendipitous discoveries always bring me joy and a sense of fulfilment, as if fate has orchestrated our encounter with these works of art.

Then in these unique corners of the city, I enjoy chatting with friends in streets cafés, talking about art and our life recently. Sitting by the window, watching the changing hues of the sunset and the bustling crowds and traffic, I soak up New York’s unmistakable urban vibe. These moments make me feel alive with possibilities, where each person’s story intertwines with the cityscape and every cup of coffee becomes a unique experience.

Here, art and life blend into a vibrant tapestry, where every exploration feels like the discovery of new colours and shapes. The cultural diversity and creative atmosphere of NYC continues to inspire and fascinate me, allowing me to experience the charm and magic of this city. In such an environment, every corner is full of endless surprises and the joy of exploration. This is why I fell in love with New York City.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I must express my deepest gratitude to my parents. Their unwavering support and deep love have given me the courage to explore and pursue every possibility in life. Secondly, I am deeply grateful to the world for providing me with countless opportunities and experiences that have not only fostered my growth, but also broadened my horizons and capabilities.

Throughout this journey of challenges and opportunities, I have encountered many people and events that have had a profound impact on my life. I sincerely appreciate those who have supported and helped me along my path of growth, whether they are friends, mentors or people I’ve crossed paths with. Their encouragement and guidance have helped me to overcome obstacles and realise my dreams.

I am also grateful for the invaluable experiences and challenges of the world that have been crucial catalysts for my growth and maturity. From exploring new places to acquiring new skills, from facing challenges to savouring success, each experience has been a treasured part of my life’s journey, shaping me into the person I am today.

Together you have shaped every significant chapter of my life, enabling me to boldly pursue my dreams and enjoy every moment of growth.

Website: https://tanyatan.cargo.site

Instagram: tan_yaaaa02

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/tanya-tan-

Other: Email：tanyadan626@gmail.com

Image Credits
https://tanyatan.cargo.site/