Interviews with Tairan Hao

I have been immersed in the new media art industry for several years, beginning my journey with a BFA from the California College of the Arts, where I majored in Interaction Design. This foundational experience exposed me to the cutting-edge intersection of technology and art, allowing me to experiment with digital modeling, 3D printing, and interactive installations.

My educational background was further enriched by an MFA from the University of Pennsylvania, where I deepened my understanding of new media art and refined my conceptual approaches. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with esteemed institutions and clients, showcasing my work in both solo and group exhibitions worldwide. Notable exhibitions include my solo show at the Beijing Today Art Museum and group exhibitions at the Wuhan Biennale and the Williamsburg Art and Historical Center in Brooklyn.

When designing, my priorities focus on conceptual depth, technological integration, and audience interaction. I emphasize strong underlying themes to ensure each project provokes thought and dialogue. Utilizing the latest digital tools and technologies, such as digital modeling, 3D printing, AI, and machine learning, I push the boundaries of traditional art. Creating immersive and participatory experiences is key, transforming viewers from passive observers into active participants. My approach typically begins with brainstorming and conceptual sketches, followed by computer-aided design and digital renderings. Depending on the project, I may also create physical mock-ups to test and refine interactive elements. This blend of concept, technology, and interaction defines my style and ensures that my work resonates deeply with audiences.

A little bit scared, excited, and hopeful. This mixed emotion could let me balance a better situation to start the design journey.

Several aspects of my background have significantly shaped me as a designer, particularly my interdisciplinary approach and diverse skill set. Beyond technical design skills, strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and an understanding of sociopolitical contexts are crucial. My background in interaction design, coupled with my education in fine arts, has allowed me to integrate technology seamlessly into my work. Additionally, my proficiency in programming and digital tools has been invaluable in pushing the boundaries of new media art.

Diversify your experience. A well-rounded design leader can wear many hats. They collect those hats by taking on responsibilities outside their design "discipline." If you are a Fashion Designer, do not be afraid to take on roles in Graphic Design. I have done Video Design, Animation Design, Graphic Design, Package Design, Toy Design, and Innovation Strategy.

I recommend prioritizing conceptual depth, embracing technology, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to create meaningful and innovative work. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as is avoiding over-reliance on a single tool or technique. Diversify your skills and seek inspiration from various sources. Cultivate a strong personal vision while remaining open to learning and evolving. Balance professional success with personal well-being to sustain long-term creativity and productivity. By following these principles, you can achieve success and make a significant impact in your field.

I believe in balancing awareness of design trends with maintaining a unique personal style. While I stay informed about the latest trends through industry publications, exhibitions, and online platforms, I prioritize developing a distinct and timeless aesthetic in my work. Trends can offer valuable insights and inspiration, but my primary focus is on creating pieces that reflect my artistic vision and conceptual depth. Inspiration for my designs comes from a variety of sources, including nature, technology, and sociopolitical contexts. When I do incorporate trends, it’s in a way that enhances the originality and relevance of my work, rather than following them blindly. This approach ensures that my designs remain innovative and meaningful, resonating with audiences on a deeper level while staying current and engaging.

For me, a well-designed product or project seamlessly integrates form, function, and meaning. Good design is intuitive and user-friendly, addressing the needs and desires of its audience while also being aesthetically pleasing and thought-provoking. When evaluating a design, I look for a clear conceptual foundation, innovative use of technology, and the ability to engage and resonate with its users. A key indicator is whether the design effectively solves a problem or fulfills a purpose while maintaining simplicity and elegance. Common mistakes to avoid include over-complicating the design, neglecting user experience, and failing to consider the broader context or impact. Good design also stands the test of time, offering lasting value rather than being a fleeting trend. Ultimately, a design is good if it successfully combines functionality, beauty, and relevance, creating a meaningful and impactful experience for its audience.

Deciding when a design is ready involves a balance between perfection and practicality. I know a design is complete when it effectively meets the project's goals, solves the intended problems, and resonates with its audience both functionally and aesthetically. This often comes after several iterations and thorough testing. While there is always room for improvement, I decide to stop refining a design when additional changes no longer add significant value or when deadlines and project constraints are met. Success is indicated by positive feedback from users, successful integration into its intended context, and the achievement of desired outcomes. Although I may move on to new projects, I remain open to revisiting and enhancing previous designs if new insights or technologies offer meaningful improvements.

Neri Oxman, Oxman coined the term and pioneered the field of, Material Ecology, which considers computation, fabrication, and the material itself as inseparable dimensions of design. Her field and design attitude engaging and inspiring me to augment the relationship between built, natural, and biological environments.

A'Design Award is a competition that brings together excellent designers from all over the world. We learned some of the latest ideas and skills from the A'Design's winner.

The relationship between the virtual world and the real world generates the form of this installation design and the traditional method of crafting versus what can be crafted with contemporary technologies. The development of civilization proceeds as time goes on. Therefore, the mirror reflection in the installation's interior space shows the infinite possibility of what time can change. Technology allows humans to define what is real and what is virtual and all the connections.

I wanted to focus on giving a compelling feeling to the audience while I can express my idea in the right way.

Based on the concept of this design, I will try to expand my works and create new works that form an independent series.

The project started in 2016 in Beijing and finished in 2017. It was exhibited in Beijing Today Art Museum in 2017.

The visual interaction generates a strong feeling to the audiences that every object, everyone, everything is being extended infinitely. With the presence of sculpture, it is communicating part of the objects they see are real, but the other objects are the reflection by the mirrors, which is unreal. The interaction makes people think that they are stepping into a fantasy world that is created by themselves.

I am not planning to sell the work at this moment because the sculpture quantity is limited.

The interactive need from the audience. My intention was not to only let people see the outcome of my exploration, but also have an interactive and immersive feeling while they look at them.

The audience who went to the art exhibition.

The name is directly expressing the concept of the work - ceramics extension: what can be expanded and explored based on the original characteristics of ceramics.

3D printing; Plastic; aluminum mirrors; porcelain, LED lights

When the audiences step into the installation space, they will sense a feeling of visual infinity. The visual interaction generates a strong feeling to the audiences that every object, everyone, everything is being extended infinitely. The interaction makes people think that they are stepping into a fantasy world that is created by themselves.

I collaborate with Shan, my partner, who initialized the idea that using mirrors as an element in the space design.

The installation is formed by traditional handmade ceramics sculptures and 3D printed plastic sculptures. There is a total of 130 pieces of sculptures in the installation space. The installation is designed to display in a space surrounded by reflected glass mirrors, with 5 LED lights that give the audience a fantasy and futuristic feeling. The installation design's meaning is to show the communication between the future and the past, modern technology and traditional handicraft, the real world, and the virtual world.

I did some research on the characteristic of traditional ceramics versus the characteristic of the modern technology 3D printer. My research outcome allowed me to produce the visual effect of my 3D printed sculptures.

The arrangement of the sculptures was one of the challenges in the design process. Some of the ceramics were too heavy to use ropes to hold and connect with the roof. Therefore, most of the sculptures are remade and reprinted by the 3D printer, using lighter materials then sprayed by the glazed-look white color to the surface.

My design background is rooted in a strong academic foundation and diverse professional experiences. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the California College of the Arts, where I specialized in Human-Computer Interaction and received a Faculty Award Scholarship. Following this, I pursued a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) at the University of Pennsylvania, which allowed me to further develop my skills and explore the intersection of technology and art.

Throughout my education, I focused on integrating new media technologies into my work, such as AI, 3D printing, and interactive installations. This academic journey provided me with a deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of design, shaping my approach to creating immersive and engaging art experiences​​​​​​.

I primarily design interactive installations, animations, sculptures, and video art that merge art and technology to create immersive experiences. My work often explores themes of personal identity, social policy, and environmental issues, utilizing tools like AI, 3D printing, and projection mapping. In the future, I wish to design more large-scale interactive installations and public art projects that engage broader audiences and create more significant impact. I am particularly interested in projects that integrate emerging technologies to push the boundaries of traditional art forms and foster deeper connections between art, technology, and everyday life​​​​.

Find innovative and inspirational ideas to develop, and work hard enough on it.

A great designer is distinguished when people can feel the value of their work. Their works generate reciprocity between the world and the audience.

A really good design can solve not only the problem but also has the power to communicate with people.

My secret recipe for success in design combines curiosity, continuous learning, and a deep commitment to integrating technology with art, with the secret ingredient being empathy. I constantly explore new ideas and technologies, staying ahead of trends and pushing the boundaries of traditional design. By leveraging tools like AI, 3D printing, and interactive installations, I create immersive and engaging experiences. Understanding the needs and emotions of my audience allows me to design meaningful and resonant works. Attention to detail and resilience in overcoming challenges further contribute to my ability to create innovative and impactful designs​​​​​​.

Neri Oxman, Oxman coined the term and pioneered the field of, Material Ecology, which considers computation, fabrication, and the material itself as inseparable dimensions of design. Her field and design attitude engaging and inspiring me to augment the relationship between built, natural, and biological environments.

My digital and graphic design are named "CODE," recently got the NDA prize in France, the design work combined computer C++ language and sewing machine to present. This work is the biggest project for me because I did it for two years with over and over iteration. The design outcome was eventually shown into a book and consisted of four parts.

Diversify your experience. A well-rounded design leader can wear many hats. They collect those hats by taking on responsibilities outside their design "discipline." If you are a Fashion Designer, do not be afraid to take on roles in Graphic Design. I have done Video Design, Animation Design, Graphic Design, Package Design, Toy Design, and Innovation Strategy. Without taking on all these experiences, I do not feel that I would be where I am today.

To accomplish a particular purpose. The meaning of design is so multifaceted, to the point that you can no longer say if a universal definition is at all possible.

I am designing an animation film for a city's situation under COVID-19, through the abstract virus models as the character to engage people to face and fight the invaders.

"Ceramics Extension" When the audiences step into the installation space, they will sense a feeling of visual infinity. The visual interaction generates a strong feeling to the audiences that every object, everyone, everything is being extended infinitely. The interaction makes people think that they are stepping into a fantasy world that is created by themselves.

We believe all the design field's evolution depends on the future experience of human lives. The design has the power to change people’s behavior, improve people’s living quality, and explore the possibility of life.

The design field will be associated and collaborated more often with the technology industry because of the rapid development of technology.

It depends on the project. New media design project usually takes longer than 3D/2D works.

Research. I will dig into the design topic and find the potential pain points and needs of people, as well as the background research.

It can be both. Design sets the trends when there are lots of great works that are in a similar style or concept. Trends set the designs when there is a new evolution of technology, which needs good design.

For 2D design, I use photoshop, Illustration, XD, Sketch, keynote, and more. For 3D, I use Maya, C4D, ZBrush, Substance Painter, and more. For 4D, I use After Effect, Premiere, Maya, and more.

Color can express the feeling of the design, while materials bring authenticity.

I am open to any kind of question people want to ask. But I prefer people to ask me about the design process more rather than the design outcome.

From a young age, I have been deeply fascinated by the intersection of technology and art, which significantly shaped my journey as an artist and designer. My academic background includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the California College of the Arts, where I specialized in Human-Computer Interaction, followed by a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from the University of Pennsylvania. Growing up in a dynamic sociopolitical environment in China and later developing my career in the United States provided me with a unique perspective on the interplay between tradition and modernity, freedom and control, and individualism and collectivism. My work spans various mediums, including animation, video, sculpture, and interactive installations, aiming to create immersive experiences that engage audiences as active participants. I discovered my passion for new media and technology during my undergraduate studies, which transformed my artistic practice and guided me towards a career that blends design and art. This realization led me to integrate cutting-edge technologies such as AI, 3D printing, and interactive installations into my work, making design not just about aesthetics but about crafting meaningful experiences and interactions. This approach allows me to explore and push the boundaries of traditional art forms, encouraging viewers to reflect on their identities and the world around them.

TairanHao Studio, which I founded, is dedicated to developing technological art products and interactive installations that merge art with cutting-edge technology. We focus on creating immersive experiences using AI, 3D printing, projection mapping, and digital modeling, exploring themes like personal identity, social policy, and environmental crises. Our studio holds over 24 patents and has been featured in prestigious exhibitions, including the Beijing Today Art Museum and the Wuhan Biennale. At TairanHao Studio, our mission is to bridge the digital and physical realms, transforming how audiences engage with contemporary art​​​​.

For me, design is about creating meaningful experiences that transcend mere aesthetics. It’s a process of solving problems and communicating ideas through a thoughtful integration of form, function, and technology. Design should engage, inspire, and provoke thought, transforming everyday interactions into impactful and memorable experiences. By blending traditional methods with cutting-edge technologies, I strive to push the boundaries of what design can achieve, making it an integral part of our daily lives and a powerful tool for social and cultural reflection​​​​.

I most enjoy designing works that merge art and technology to create immersive, interactive experiences. Projects that allow me to explore themes of personal identity, social policy, and environmental issues are particularly fulfilling. I love working with mediums like AI, 3D printing, and projection mapping to push the boundaries of traditional art and engage audiences in meaningful, participatory ways. These kinds of works challenge viewers to reflect on their own identities and the world around them, making the creative process deeply rewarding for me​​​​.

One of my favorite designs is the interactive installation "Mission on Mars." This piece combines digital sculpting, 3D printing, and traditional handcrafting techniques to create an immersive experience that reflects on humanity's aspirations and anxieties about space exploration. The installation features a Sphynx cat-shaped speaker, steel-aluminum arms, and sensors embedded in dyed soil, all integrated into a dynamic sculpture that engages viewers through sound and movement. "Mission on Mars" is significant to me because it encapsulates my passion for blending technology with art to explore complex themes and create thought-provoking, interactive experiences​​.

The first thing I designed for a company was an interactive installation that integrated 3D printing and digital modeling for a client. This project involved creating a series of small, interactive sculptures that could engage viewers through touch and movement, utilizing sensors and custom software. The installation aimed to showcase the potential of new-media art to create immersive experiences and bridge the gap between technology and traditional art forms, setting the stage for innovative approach to contemporary art​​​​.

Late nights in the studio, when the world is quiet and I can fully focus on experimenting with new tools and ideas, are particularly inspiring for me. The freedom to explore and push boundaries without immediate constraints allows my imagination to flow, leading to some of my most innovative and engaging works​​​​.

During the design process, I focus heavily on the integration of functionality and interactivity. I ensure that the design not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also engages the audience in meaningful ways. I pay close attention to how the technology can enhance the experience, making sure that elements like sensors, AI, or 3D printing are seamlessly integrated into the artwork. Additionally, I consider the conceptual aspects, ensuring that the design effectively communicates the intended themes and narratives, whether they pertain to personal identity, social policy, or environmental issues​​​​.

When I design, I experience a wide range of emotions. There’s a sense of excitement and curiosity as I explore new ideas and technologies, and a deep satisfaction when a concept starts to come together. I also feel a strong sense of engagement and focus, as the creative process demands my full attention and imagination. Sometimes, there’s frustration when I encounter challenges, but overcoming these obstacles brings a rewarding feeling of accomplishment. Ultimately, designing brings me joy and fulfillment, knowing that my work can inspire and connect with others​​​​.

When my designs are realized, I feel a profound sense of accomplishment and pride. Seeing an idea transform from a conceptual stage to a tangible, interactive piece is incredibly rewarding. There's also a deep sense of gratitude and fulfillment in knowing that my work can engage and inspire others, creating meaningful experiences for the audience. Additionally, I often feel a renewed sense of motivation and excitement to continue exploring new creative possibilities and pushing the boundaries of art and technology​​​​.

From my perspective, a designer has significant responsibilities toward society and the environment. Designers should strive to create works that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also socially relevant and impactful. This involves addressing pressing societal issues such as identity, social justice, and political change through their designs, fostering dialogue and reflection.

Environmentally, designers should prioritize sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and methods to minimize their ecological footprint. They should consider the lifecycle of their designs, ensuring they promote conservation and responsible use of resources. By integrating these values into their work, designers can contribute to a more equitable, conscious, and sustainable world​​​​​​.

The design field is rapidly evolving with advancements in technology such as AI, 3D printing, and virtual reality, leading to more immersive and interactive experiences. The future of design will likely emphasize sustainability and social responsibility, addressing global challenges like climate change and social inequality. As the boundaries between different design disciplines blur, a more interdisciplinary approach will emerge, enabling designers to create holistic solutions that enhance our way of living, working, and connecting with the world. This convergence will foster innovation and have a profound impact on society and the environment​​​​​​.

The design inspiration for my works comes from a blend of technology, personal experiences, and societal issues. I draw heavily from the interaction between the virtual and real worlds, exploring themes like personal identity, social policy, and environmental crises. To feed my creativity, I stay updated with technological advancements, engage in continuous learning, and immerse myself in diverse art forms and cultures. My sources of inspiration include the dynamic sociopolitical environment of my upbringing, contemporary artists like Ai Weiwei, and the innovative potential of new media technologies such as AI and 3D printing​​​​​​.

My design style can be described as a fusion of technology and art, characterized by immersive, interactive experiences that engage the audience in meaningful ways. I was drawn to this style because of my fascination with how technological advancements can transform traditional art forms and create new dimensions of interaction. The main characteristics of my style include the integration of AI, 3D printing, projection mapping, and digital modeling, all aimed at exploring themes of personal identity, social policy, and environmental issues. My approach to design involves pushing the boundaries of what's possible by merging digital and physical realms, ensuring that each piece is both aesthetically compelling and conceptually profound​​​​.

We are living in Beijing. The design is usually affected by the environment and reflection of our life. There are some fantastic traditional architectures and full of oriental aesthetics atmosphere. We want to catch the culture's essence into our design and avoid having too many of the same elements.

Collaboration is the key to the design studio to work with companies. It includes production, communication, testing, analytics, support, and updates. Those who realize that a designer is more than just a pencil, end up with a consistent and reliable product instead of a patchwork of narrow tasks.