Meet Ker Chen | 3D artist

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

Hi Ker, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’ve always been inclined towards taking risks. During the pandemic, I made the bold decision to quit my job because I felt a strong desire to embark on a different path in life. My career transitioned from advertising and event planning to the digital art realm. This significant change involved leaving my home country and pursuing a new career, armed with just enough money to cover my first year’s tuition fees in New York. Embarking on this new journey required me to take considerable risks. However, I revel in the thrill of it. It’s the very essence of risk-taking that continuously propels me to break through boundaries and explore new horizons. I firmly believe that opportunities are often cloaked in risk, so embracing risk is essential to seizing those chances.

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’m Ker Chen, an XR/3D artist and experience designer with a deep fascination for moving images, sound, and space. I earned my Master of Science degree from New York University’s Integrated Design and Media (IDM) program, where I delved into storytelling through emerging technologies. My artistic practice encompasses digital, physical, and event mediums, showcasing a versatile approach to creative expression. Growing up in a multi-religious family and being the first-generation college student in my family, along with my experiences in diverse cities like New York, Shanghai, and Beijing, has ignited my interest in the dynamic nature of cultural identity and the role that modern technology and science play in shaping our understanding of ourselves, both mentally and physically, as well as the world around us. My artistic exploration is centered on the intersection of moving images, sound, body, and emerging technologies, all of which hold significant relevance in today’s world. Through my work, I aim to prompt audiences to reflect on themes such as myth, identity, and contemporary values, exploring how they intertwine in an ever-changing world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a touch of culture and architecture, Schindler House is a hidden gem in West Hollywood. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to take photos but also sit down and sketch or write. The way the light plays in different rooms really sparks creativity. Plus, it’s got this vibe that makes you feel like you might be able to borrow some design ideas for your own place.

When you’re feeling bookish, The Last Book Store downtown is like stepping into another world. It’s the perfect spot to get lost for a few hours, surrounded by towering bookshelves and unique art installations.

For some chill beach vibes, hitting up Santa Monica Pier at sunset can’t be beaten. There’s always some live music, and the atmosphere as the sun goes down over the ocean is something you don’t want to miss. Plus, Venice Beach is great for people-watching and getting a glimpse of the local fitness culture at Muscle Beach.

For stunning views, a drive along Mulholland Drive at night offers some of the best cityscapes, or head over to Griffith Observatory at sunset. It’s one of those iconic LA experiences, watching the sky change colors over the city.

And when you’re hungry, I can’t recommend Hunan Chili King and New Port Seafood enough for some authentic Chinese cuisine. Both places offer incredible dishes that’ll leave you wanting more.

For a unique LA shopping experience, wandering around Erewhon Market in Beverly Hills is an experience in itself, even if you’re just there to browse and not shop.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a special shoutout to the Integrated Design & Media (IDM) program at NYU. IDM has truly been like a warm family to me during my graduate studies. It provided me with the opportunity to explore a myriad of new developments in technology and art. The professors at IDM offered invaluable mentorship, guiding me to discover my career skills. I’m deeply grateful for the access to advanced technological equipment IDM provided, which significantly aided in the creation of my work. It was in IDM that I acquired all my digital art skills.

Website: https://www.kerchen.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerchen/

Image Credits
p1_ Hnting, photographer Cass Yao p2_ Ancestor P3_Gold Sphere P4_Year Of Long p5_Girl Of the Night p6_VJ for Victor Ma p7_VJ for Victor Ma p8_Swim in the Air