Meet Tianzhi Duan | Film Production Designer

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

Hi Tianzhi, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career because I’m driven by the desire to create something new—something that people have never seen before. There’s a unique thrill in bringing fresh ideas to life and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I’ve always felt a strong urge to express my vision and my understanding of the world, and art provides a platform for that expression. Through my work, I aim to not just share a story, but to communicate the emotions, themes, and nuances that shape my perspective on life.

At the same time, I want my work to have an impact—whether big or small. Even the smallest influence can resonate with someone, inspire them, or make them see things differently. I think art has the power to connect people, to challenge ideas, and to bring new conversations to life. That’s why I chose this path: to create, to express, and to leave a lasting impression on those who engage with my work. Whether it’s through a set design that pulls the audience into a new world or through a film that challenges perceptions, I’m motivated by the impact that creativity can have.

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 revolves around bringing stories to life through the spaces and worlds I help create. As a production designer, I specialize in designing immersive environments that not only support the narrative but also enhance the emotional experience of the audience. What sets me apart is my deep attention to detail and my belief that every element on screen should contribute meaningfully to the story. From the smallest prop to the largest set piece, I view each detail as an opportunity to enhance the characters, the mood, and the overall storytelling. I want my work to feel alive and authentic, as though the world itself is a character that interacts with the others.

I’m particularly proud of the projects I’ve been able to contribute to, especially the ones that have been recognized at film festivals like the Student Academy Awards, BFI Flare, and LA Shorts. The recognition validates the hard work, creativity, and collaboration that went into those projects, but it also inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of what I can create.

Getting to where I am today professionally wasn’t easy. It’s been a journey full of trial and error, exploring different roles in the film industry before finally finding my place in the art department. Early on, I worked in various departments—camera, lighting, producing—and it took some time to realize that production design was where I could fully express myself. There were also challenges that came with adapting to a new culture and navigating the competitive nature of the film industry, especially after moving to LA. But I was fortunate to have the guidance of mentors, like Ross Silverman, who helped me stay grounded and focused, and friends who supported me through those early years when I was still finding my way.

Through all these challenges, I’ve learned the importance of resilience and flexibility. The road hasn’t always been straightforward, but each obstacle taught me something valuable about perseverance, teamwork, and the power of collaboration. I also learned that creativity isn’t just about having ideas; it’s about knowing how to communicate and collaborate with others to bring those ideas to life. That’s something I’m passionate about—creating environments that feel tangible and true to the story, while also working closely with other departments to ensure everything comes together cohesively.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I’m a designer who is driven by a love for creation and an unwavering dedication to telling powerful, immersive stories. Whether I’m designing a small prop or a full set, my goal is always to enhance the experience for the audience, to make them feel like they’re stepping into a new world, and to leave a lasting impression. My story is one of perseverance, passion, and a constant drive to create something that not only looks beautiful but also serves the story in a meaningful way.

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 was visiting LA and I wanted to show them the best time ever, I’d definitely start with a hike to the Hollywood sign. It’s one of the most iconic views in LA, and the hike is amazing—challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment but not too tough. The trail offers some of the best views of the city, and at the top, you get this breathtaking panoramic view of LA. It’s a must-do to get a true sense of the city’s landscape.

After the hike, we’d definitely hit up one of my favorite Thai spots. LA has some of the best Thai food outside of Thailand, and I’d take them to a place that serves up authentic dishes—maybe a spot like Jitlada or Thai Town. We’d indulge in everything from pad Thai to green curry, and of course, some mango sticky rice for dessert.

For nightlife, we’d definitely check out some of LA’s great rooftop bars, like Perch or the rooftop at The Standard, to take in the night skyline. And for something more low-key, we could end the week at a cozy dive bar in Downtown LA or West Hollywood—somewhere with live music, good vibes, and a laid-back atmosphere.

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?
I’d definitely like to dedicate my shoutout to my mentor, Ross Silverman. He was my professor at USC and has been an incredible source of support throughout my career. From day one, he believed in me and pushed me to explore my potential. His guidance not only helped me grow as a designer but also taught me the importance of perseverance, creativity, and staying true to my vision. Ross has always been there to offer advice, share opportunities, and encourage me to push beyond my limits. His mentorship has truly shaped the path I’m on today.

I also want to shout out all of my friends who helped me when I first moved to LA. The transition was challenging, but I was lucky enough to be surrounded by people who had my back. They supported me both personally and professionally, helping me get through those early years when I was figuring out the industry and working on various projects. Their encouragement, their belief in me, and the opportunities they opened up were key to getting me where I am now. Without them, I wouldn’t have made it this far, and I’m forever grateful for their support.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frank_mr.d/

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