Meet Wenzhao Li | Interactive Media Artist

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

Hi Wenzhao, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I am an Interactive Media Artist, passionate about creating captivating experiences that engage and immerse audiences. From a young age, I’ve been driven by curiosity and a strong desire to bring my ideas to life through creativity. While studying science initially seemed like a viable path, I soon realized it couldn’t fulfill my need for immediate visual expression.

During my bachelor’s degree in science, I explored various forms of media and discovered the power of interactive technology. This revelation fueled my journey into the world of Interactive Media Art. I found my true calling in crafting dynamic and interactive content, where users could actively participate and forge deeper connections with the artwork. This fusion of technology and creativity was the perfect outlet for my imagination, leading me to pursue an artistic career dedicated to captivating storytelling through interactive experiences.

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.
What sets my art apart is its combination of aesthetic skills from the traditional motion picture industry and logical and technical skills from computer science. Navigating this interdisciplinary field has been both challenging and rewarding. One of the major challenges in Interactive Media is the constant evolution of technology and trends. As the field is still relatively new, what was valued in the past can quickly become obsolete, requiring continuous research and learning to stay current.

For instance, one recent trend is AI-generated art, which has rapidly gained popularity in the past six months. Many companies and studios are now incorporating AI models into their production workflows for concept art. I’ve also experimented with integrating AI into my workflow, but the unpredictable nature of technology means that what I invest time and effort in today could potentially be automated by machines in the future. Nevertheless, I believe it’s essential to be innovative and knowledgeable about emerging technologies. Understanding the principles and being able to adapt to new trends quickly is crucial in this ever-changing landscape.

Getting to where I am today professionally was not easy, but I overcame challenges by maintaining a passion for learning and embracing the idea of constant improvement. The world of Interactive Media is ever-evolving, and staying adaptable has been a key lesson I’ve learned along the way. I take pride in being part of an emerging field that pushes boundaries and creates unique, interactive experiences for audiences.

As an artist, my journey has been a continuous quest to blend creativity and technology seamlessly. I want the world to know that I am dedicated to staying at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field and that my work is a fusion of artistry and technical prowess. My story is one of perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to producing compelling and immersive interactive media experiences.

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?
I would like to suggest considering 1) Exposition Park and 2) areas around Artcenter in South Pasadena, even though this recommendation may seem familiar.

Exposition Park is a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles. which houses several fascinating attractions, including the California Science Center, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, and the California African American Museum. Each of these museums offers a wealth of knowledge and interactive exhibits that cater to various interests, making it an ideal destination for both families and curious individuals.

South Pasadena’s surroundings, particularly the areas near ArtCenter, provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The lush greenery, peaceful streets, and charming architecture create a serene atmosphere that fosters creativity and relaxation with numerous galleries and public art installations waiting to be discovered.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to extend special thanks to my instructor and thesis advisor, John Brennan, an Adjunct Associate Professor at the School of Cinematic Arts during my time at the University of Southern California in 2019. He showed exceptional patience, dedicating personal time to both me and fellow students at the school. Furthermore, he generously shared his vast wisdom and technical expertise, which was invaluable to our growth and development.

Website: http://www.wenzhaodesign.com/

Other: https://vimeo.com/user79115113