Meet Chen Zhang | 3D Artist

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

Hi Chen, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’ve had a strong interest in animation since I was a child. Initially, I enjoyed watching 2D animations like Japanese manga and traditional Disney animations such as ‘The Lion King,’ princess series, and ‘Tom and Jerry.’ Later on, after watching Pixar’s works like ‘Toy Story’ and ‘Finding Nemo,’ I was deeply attracted by their storytelling and techniques, and the animation industry became my dream. With the support of my family, I came to the United States to study animation and officially embarked on this career path. My passion for the animation industry stems from the challenges it presents, the creativity it fosters, and the opportunity to express my own ideas and emotions. This industry fills me with passion, and I hope to continue growing within it, creating deeply impactful works that influence more people.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others is my unique perspective and approach to creating art. I strive to infuse my work with emotion, storytelling, and attention to detail, whether it’s through character modeling, or environmental modeling. I’m particularly proud of my ability to blend technical skills with feeling and emotion, allowing me to bring imaginative worlds and characters to life.

My path to where I am today professionally has been both challenging and rewarding. It wasn’t easy, especially navigating the competitive landscape of the animation industry for international students. However, through perseverance, dedication, and continuous learning, I overcame obstacles and honed my craft. I sought out opportunities for growth, whether through internships, networking, or further education, which helped me develop my skills and expand my professional network.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of resilience and adaptability. The art industry is constantly evolving, so being able to embrace change and learn new techniques is essential for staying relevant and competitive. I’ve also learned the value of collaboration and communication, as working with others often leads to more innovative and impactful outcomes.

As for what I want the world to know about me and my story, I hope to inspire others with my passion for art and storytelling. I want to show that with dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks, anyone can pursue their dreams and achieve success in the creative industry. My brand is built on a commitment to excellence, authenticity, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in art and animation.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my friend visits Vancouver, I aim to curate an unforgettable journey, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and stunning natural landscapes. Vancouver, renowned for its diversity and dynamism, offers a plethora of experiences to explore. We would kick off our adventure with a leisurely stroll along Stanley Park’s seawall, soaking in its breathtaking vistas. Next, we’d venture to Granville Island Public Market, indulging in fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and delectable snacks while perusing its eclectic shops and galleries. Over the following days, we’d embark on an outdoor escapade, ascending Grouse Mountain to immerse ourselves in its scenic splendor and partake in thrilling outdoor activities. We’d also delve into Vancouver’s cultural heart, visiting art galleries and museums downtown to delve into the city’s rich heritage.
Of course, no visit to Vancouver is complete without savoring its culinary delights. From sampling local delicacies to sipping international cuisines, we’d traverse the city’s diverse gastronomic landscape, tantalizing our taste buds at every turn.
As our friend’s journey draws to a close, we’d reflect on our shared experiences, cherishing the memories we’ve created together. Before bidding farewell, we’d indulge in a delightful brunch, savoring the last moments of our unforgettable trip.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my family, mentors, and colleagues. They’ve provided immense support and encouragement for my dreams and career path. Throughout my journey, they’ve offered invaluable guidance and advice, helping me overcome many challenges. Especially my very first mentor, who was my mentor during my internship at Blue Sky Animation Studios. She helped me gain a whole new understanding of the animation industry and animation modeling. She guided me to better understand the connection between models and animation styles, providing significant inspiration and assistance for my future studies in modeling. I also want to thank my past work experiences at places like Blue Sky Animation Studios, Pixar, and Sony Pictures Imageworks, Walt Disney Animation Studios, for providing invaluable learning and growth opportunities. Additionally, I’m grateful to the animation directors and artists whose works have inspired my passion and creativity in animation.

Website: https://www.chenzhang3d.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superchen.z/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chen-zhang-54622926/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/superchenz

Image Credits
The concept artists of my 3d modeling work: Loish Pernille Ørum Jennifer.P Junq Jeon Yuka Soemy Woo Kim