Meet Yu Harn Hwang | 3D Artist for Film and Games
We had the good fortune of connecting with Yu Harn Hwang and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Yu Harn, why did you pursue a creative career?
Initially, I believed that my ultimate goal was to do graphic design. However, after watching Frozen, the look development amazed me. At that moment, I knew I wanted to create work like that. That experience completely changed my career path. Since then, I have explored many movies and games that have further inspired me. My career journey began at Hsing Wu University.
After completing the Bachelor degree in Taiwan. I decided to take my CG abilities to the next level. Initially, my family strongly opposed my decision to go to the United States. I understood their concerns about something happening to their youngest daughter in a foreign country. However, after numerous negotiations, they finally decided to support my dream because they saw my strong passion for creating CG art. I wanted to see how far I could go in my career.
Gnomon is an excellent school for freshmen interested in the film and game industry. The teachers, all of whom have extensive professional experience, ensure students learn the latest skills in 3D software and workflow. I am fortunate to have studied at Gnomon and worked with some of the industry’s best minds. This experience has provided me with a strong foundation in 3D software and opened new opportunities in the film and game industry.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In the beginning, it wasn’t easy for me. It was my first time earning a college degree in a foreign country and English was still somewhat new to me. Additionally, as an introverted person, I faced challenges in socializing with other students. However, over time, I overcame this barrier and have since worked closely with my fellow students at Gnomon. I’ve made many talented friends who provide valuable insights for my projects and career.
In my second year, I decided to focus on game track because I wanted to delve deeper into learning Unreal Engine. I specialized in 3D modeling and texturing for film and games, creating highly detailed environments, props, and characters. Most of my work is presented in Unreal Engine to achieve the final look.
Until final term, I decided to create an 3D environment for my final demo reel project, “**Space Capsule Cockpit**”, showcases my passion for sci-fi art. During this project, I learned numerous new techniques from external sources such as YouTube videos and Gnomon workshops. I utilized different 3D software to customize various sci-fi props and surface textures. I also created animated screens and holograms to bring the environment to life. The project took about four months to complete because I continually showed my progress to my instructor and friends. I absorbed every critique to improve my work until everyone said the scene looked perfect. I was delighted with how the final look turned out in my last term at Gnomon.
The last term was tough, but I don’t regret my journey at Gnomon. Now, the challenging part is job hunting. The reality is harsh for new artists. Everyone is trying to break into the film and game industry, and applying for jobs in the United States as an international student feels like a boss level challenge. However, I believe I will land an ideal job in the United States. There’s a quote I always remind myself of: “If I want it, it’s already mine!” This is why I never give up. If you stop trying, dreams will never come true.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve lived in Los Angeles for four years. As depicted in the movie “La La Land,” daily traffic is a reality here. Still, it’s a city of dreamers, immersed in film culture. Countless places and experiences are waiting to be discovered. As a film enthusiast, a tour of the Warner Bros. or Universal Studios is a must. For shopping, we’d head to The Grove or Melrose Avenue, and perhaps Rodeo Drive for a taste of luxury. The Last Bookstore, a labyrinth of books and art, would be on the list for any book lovers.
When it comes to Los Angeles, Santa Monica Beach is always a popular spot on the must-visit list. It’s iconic, tranquil, and home to a legendary pier. Watching the sunset there is particularly memorable. We’d also visit the Getty Museum, renowned for its impressive art collection and stunning city view. We’d dedicate a day to hiking in Griffith Park and visiting the observatory, where the famous Hollywood sign and a beautiful view of LA can be seen.
In terms of dining, we would certainly visit some of the local food trucks, which are a staple of LA’s food culture. I would also guide them to some of my preferred restaurants in the city, such as ‘Bestia’ for Italian cuisine and ‘Guelaguetza’ for Oaxacan fare. If you have a sweet tooth, I recommend visiting my favorite dessert place, Beignet Box. Their signature item is the beignet, a delightful southern sweet treat. It’s not overly doughy and has just the right amount of sugar. After trying one, you’ll definitely want to keep eating more.
The final destination on your LA trip should be the Griffith Observatory, a significant landmark in the city, renowned for stargazing. A visit promises breathtaking views of the city and an unrivaled opportunity to explore the cosmos. The observatory features various space and science-related exhibits, a planetarium, and telescopes open for public use. Ending your LA trip at the Griffith Observatory allows you to relax under the night sky, appreciating the city’s beauty beneath the celestial expanse. This iconic landmark provides unbeatable views, making it a perfect spot to appreciate the city and the stars.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family, especially my mother, has always been my biggest support. My mother nurtured my artistic skills and taste from a young age, taking my sister and me to a variety of art-related events like museums, movies, and musical shows. She collects fashion magazines and art books, which I occasionally read too. This laid the foundation for my career path. My family always respects my passion and takes my career seriously. Despite the distance between Taiwan and the United States, we keep in touch regularly.
The game industry was hit hard by a strike last year, resulting in many layoffs. This made it even more challenging for new artists to secure their first job in the industry. Nevertheless, my family continuously encourages me not to abandon my dream.
During my time at Gnomon, I meet many people who provided me with valuable insights towards my projects and career. I constantly asked questions about technical issues and learned new workflows from different peers. In my last term at Gnomon, I sought feedback from my instructor and friends to continually improve the environment. I had to make adjustments and fix errors, which extended the project timeline. I would like to express my gratitude to my instructors Miguel Ortega, Anton Napierala, Damon Woods and Javier Perez. They are the Master Yuda behind the scenes. We are very lucky to be able to receive industry level guidance from Gnomon instructors.
Additionally, my talented friends, Grayson Cotrell, a procedural tech-artist, and Dakota Smith, a Visual Effect artist, have greatly improved my work with their professional skills and insightful criticism. I am always eager to learn more from others and I am extremely grateful for their constant and valuable advice regarding my latest artwork and my career.
Website: https://www.yellofishcg22.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/yellofishcg22
Other: ArtStation : https://yellofishcg22.artstation.com/
Image Credits
none, All the imgaes are my art work.
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