Meet You Zhang | Motion Designer & CG Artist

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

Hi You, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Pursuing an artistic or creative career was a natural choice for me, driven by an insatiable curiosity and a profound passion for visual storytelling. From a young age, I was fascinated by the power of visual media to convey complex emotions and narratives, drawing me towards the realm of motion design and computer-generated art. The endless possibilities of creating something new, something that could engage and move people, were irresistible to me.

My career as a Motion Designer and CG Artist is not just a profession; it’s a journey of continuous exploration and innovation. Specializing in motion design has allowed me to delve deep into generative technologies, mastering advanced techniques that let me manipulate visual elements in ways that elevate storytelling. This journey is fueled by a desire to not only challenge the boundaries of what’s visually possible but also to create immersive experiences that resonate with viewers on an emotional level.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue a career in this field stems from a desire to make a tangible impact through my work. Being able to transform abstract ideas into visual stories that engage and inspire is immensely fulfilling. It’s about pushing the envelope, using visual language to connect with audiences worldwide, and continuously striving to enhance the user experience in every project I undertake. This career path has been an endless source of inspiration and motivation for me, pushing me to explore new horizons and constantly innovate in my work.

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, at its core, is a blend of technology and creativity, where motion design and computer-generated imagery come together to create not just visuals but experiences. What sets me apart is my relentless pursuit of innovation combined with a deep understanding of the narrative power of visual storytelling. I specialize in transforming complex concepts into engaging, understandable, and visually captivating stories. This approach has allowed me to work on a wide range of projects, from commercials and product visualizations to digital media and front-end development.

I am most proud of my ability to continuously evolve and adapt my skills in a field that is constantly changing. The excitement of mastering new technologies and techniques, and then applying them in creative ways, is what keeps me motivated. One of the projects that exemplify this is [describe a specific project you are proud of, focusing on the challenges you faced, the innovative approaches you employed, and the impact of the project].

Getting to where I am today was far from easy. The journey has been full of challenges, from the technical complexity of projects to the constant need for creative rejuvenation. One significant challenge was staying abreast of the rapidly evolving technology and software in motion design and CG art. I overcame this through continuous learning, attending workshops, and engaging with a community of peers for shared knowledge and inspiration.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are numerous, but one of the most critical is the importance of collaboration. In the creative industry, combining different perspectives and expertise can lead to outcomes far beyond what one can achieve alone. Another lesson is the value of resilience; in facing rejection or criticism, there’s always an opportunity to grow and improve.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that my work is a testament to the power of visual storytelling. It’s about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and creating memorable experiences that resonate with audiences. My journey reflects a constant quest for excellence, a commitment to lifelong learning, and an unwavering passion for creativity.

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?
Day 1: Arrival and Laguna Beach Exploration Morning: Start the day at Laguna Beach. Begin with a relaxing morning at Treasure Island Beach, known for its stunning vistas and less crowded sands.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at one of the local cafes near the beach. I’d recommend trying the seafood, as it’s fresh and reflects the flavors of SoCal.
Evening: Head to Victoria Beach for an afternoon swim or to explore the iconic Pirate Tower. Conclude the day with dinner at Honda Ya in Tustin for some delicious Japanese Yakitori. Expect a wait, but it’s worth it for their authentic flavors and ambiance.

Day 2: Cultural Day in Los Angeles
Morning: Take a trip to Los Angeles and visit The Getty Center to enjoy art collections and breathtaking views of the city.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Grand Central Market, offering a variety of cuisines that reflect LA’s diverse culinary scene. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Downtown LA area.
Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of LA. Head to a rooftop bar in Downtown for drinks and enjoy the city lights.

Day 3: Adventure at Top of the World and Relaxing Evening
Morning to Afternoon: Hike the Top of the World in Laguna Beach. The trail offers panoramic views and is especially magical at sunset.
Evening: Enjoy a quieter evening with dinner at Tasty Zone Szechwan Cuisine in Costa Mesa. Their small pot rice noodles will give you a taste of Yunnan, China, right in SoCal.

Day 4: Disneyland or Universal Studios
Spend a day at either Disneyland or Universal Studios for some unforgettable fun and adventure. Both parks offer a unique experience with thrilling rides and entertainment.

Day 5: San Diego Day Trip
Morning to Afternoon: Head to San Diego to visit the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld for a day filled with wildlife exploration.
Evening: Explore the Gaslamp Quarter for dining and nightlife. San Diego’s craft beer scene is also worth checking out, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings.

Day 6: Relaxing Beach Day and Shopping
Day: Take a more relaxed approach with a day at one of the quieter beaches, perhaps spending some time at Corona Del Mar or Huntington Beach.
Evening: Visit Fashion Island or the Irvine Spectrum Center for some shopping and dinner.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch and Departure
Wrap up the visit with a farewell brunch at a scenic spot with ocean views, such as The Cliff Restaurant in Laguna Beach, offering a wide selection of American cuisine with a Californian twist.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Working in the creative field from another country has never been easy. My path has been profoundly shaped and supported by the encouragement, mentorship, and inspiration I’ve received from numerous individuals and resources. If I were to dedicate my shoutout, it would undoubtedly be to a collective rather than a single entity.

Firstly, I am deeply thankful to my partner, who has always been there for me, offering unwavering support and understanding. Her belief in my vision and dreams has been a foundational pillar of my journey, providing both emotional and practical support at every turn.

Secondly, I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my early mentors in the field. These seasoned professionals saw potential in me, generously sharing their knowledge, critiquing my work with a constructive eye, and guiding me through the intricate landscape of digital art. Their belief in my abilities propelled me forward during moments of doubt and laid the foundation for my career. A special shoutout to Joe Ding, Xiaolin Zeng, and Thanos Kagkalos for their personalized mentorship and the unique ways each of them has influenced my approach to motion design and CG art. Their wisdom and encouragement have been invaluable in shaping my professional path.

I must also extend my shoutout to the online community of motion designers and CG artists. Platforms such as Behance, Instagram, and various forums have been invaluable for connecting with peers, sharing work, and receiving feedback. The generosity with which knowledge and resources are shared within this community is truly remarkable and has helped me, and countless others, grow exponentially.

Lastly, I want to recognize my family and friends for their unwavering support and encouragement. They’ve celebrated my successes, offered comfort during setbacks, and continually remind me of the value of pursuing one’s passion. Their love and belief in my vision have been a constant source of strength.

In the realm of creativity, we stand on the shoulders of those who inspire us, teach us, and believe in us. To all who have been part of my journey—thank you. Your impact extends far beyond what words can convey, and this shoutout is a tribute to your invaluable role in my story.

Website: https://www.atom63.io/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atom63_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/you-zhang/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/yz_atom63

Other: Behance: https://www.behance.net/youzhang

Image Credit
Profile photo taken by: Imagine This Studio (https://www.instagram.com/imaginethisstudio/).