Meet Sinew Zhang | Real-time 3D Artist & Environment Artist

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

Hi Sinew, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic career as it has always been intertwined with my quest to understand the meaning of life and my own existence. From a young age, creativity was not merely a hobby; it was a vital means of expressing my thoughts, exploring my identity, and understanding my place in the world. This pursuit of creativity evolved into a career when I realized that through art, I could articulate deeper truths about who I am and what I believe in.

The transformation from architecture to digital art marked a significant shift towards greater creative freedom, allowing me to merge technical skill with boundless imagination. This path has become more than a professional choice—it is a profound journey of self-discovery and personal expression. Each project I undertake is a dialogue with the world, conveying my unique perspective and challenging others to see differently.

Moreover, the ephemeral nature of life often leads me to reflect on the legacy I wish to leave behind. This introspection has reinforced my belief that while our existence is fleeting, the art we create endures beyond our lifetimes. It is this immortal aspect of art that compels me to keep creating. Each piece of art is not just an expression of present thoughts or emotions; it is a potential legacy, a lasting imprint that might inspire, comfort, or provoke long after I am gone.

Through my artistic endeavors, I strive to create not just for the present, but for an enduring future, embedding part of my essence into something that transcends time.

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.
My art is a dynamic blend of visual storytelling and technological exploration, spanning live performances, films, and animations. One of the things that sets me apart is my ability to collaborate with renowned individuals across various creative industries, which enriches my work and broadens my perspective. My collaborations have not only expanded my professional network but have also deeply influenced my artistic development.

I constantly strive to integrate new technologies and skills into my work, which keeps my creations fresh and exciting. Whether it’s crafting intricate animations, designing rich environments, or imagining fantastical creatures, each project is a chance to push creative boundaries and explore new possibilities.

However, balancing my personal artistic endeavors with professional commitments can be challenging. The demands of work sometimes threaten to diminish my passion for creation, which is the very essence of my involvement in this field. To counter this, I continually remind myself of the joy and fulfillment that comes from personal projects and make it a point to dedicate time to them. This practice helps sustain my enthusiasm and creativity in the face of routine and sometimes monotonous professional tasks.

The journey to where I am today has not been easy. It involved a significant career shift, from architecture to digital art, which initially met with skepticism and presented numerous obstacles. Overcoming these challenges required resilience, a willingness to learn, and an unwavering commitment to my craft. Each setback taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, the importance of adaptability, and staying true to my creative vision.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that my art is not just about creating visually appealing pieces—it’s about storytelling, exploring new frontiers in digital expression, and continuously evolving as a creator. I aim to inspire others to see the world in unique ways and to recognize the power of digital art in shaping our understanding of and interaction with our surroundings.

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?
If my best friend were visiting LA, I’d make sure they didn’t miss experiencing the thrill of horse racing—an activity I became passionate about after watching “Uma Musume,” an anime that brings the stories of famous Japanese racehorses to life in a stunning and exciting way. This show not only captures the essence of each horse’s story but also the excitement that envelops the sport.

I would take them to Santa Anita Park, where they could feel the electrifying atmosphere firsthand. We’d spend a day at the races, enjoying the pleasant LA weather, which perfectly complements the thrilling races. The excitement in the air is palpable as everyone around cheers for the horses they’ve picked, creating a communal sense of competition and camaraderie. The experience is incredibly relaxing yet exhilarating, making it not just a fun outing but a memorable part of visiting Los Angeles.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to dedicate a special shoutout to the Master’s Program in Fiction and Entertainment at SCI-Arc. This program was pivotal at a crucial juncture in my life when I decided to transition from architecture to the world of digital art. The instructors there were instrumental, not just in teaching me the skills I needed to thrive in the 3D digital realm, but in guiding me through a transformative period of artistic and personal growth.

At SCI-Arc, I was immersed in a creative environment that encouraged exploration and innovation. The program provided me with both the theoretical grounding and the practical experience necessary to push the boundaries of traditional art and storytelling. It was here that I developed a deep appreciation for the power of narrative in art, learning how to fuse technical skill with imaginative storytelling to create compelling and immersive experiences.

I am profoundly grateful for the mentorship and support I received from my instructors and peers in the program. Their encouragement not only helped me navigate the challenges of entering a new industry but also played a significant role in shaping my artistic vision and career. They deserve immense credit for their part in my journey, and I am forever thankful for the foundation they helped me build in the digital arts.

Website: https://sinewzhang.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sinew.zhang/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinew-zhang-5768a6195/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006278596400

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_G_PBfkLAowbG6fiU62AbQ

Other: Artstation: https://www.artstation.com/sinewzhang