Meet Tairan Hao

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tairan Hao a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Tairan, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?

My optimism stems from a fascination with the intersections of art, technology, and identity. Growing up in China and working with different people from different disciplines, I was drawn to the possibilities that technology offered. This curiosity led me to explore new media art, where I could blend the digital and tangible, using my work to navigate and express complex relationships between personal identity and societal norms. The challenges I faced—technological limitations, and the pressure to conform—only strengthened my resolve. These obstacles became opportunities for innovation and growth, teaching me that art could be a powerful medium for social commentary and change.

This belief in the transformative power of art is at the core of my optimism. Through my growth, I’ve seen how creativity can inspire hope and foster connection. By trying to make art accessible and impactful in everyday life, I’ve witnessed how it can bring people together and spark meaningful conversations. This optimism drives me to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new ideas, and remaining hopeful about the future, confident in the potential of art and technology to create positive change​​​.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m Tairan Hao, a multidisciplinary artist deeply engaged in the fusion of technology and traditional art forms. My artistic journey began with a foundation in drawing and sculpture, which I honed during my BFA studies at California College of the Arts and later during my MFA at the University of Pennsylvania. Over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to new media art, integrating elements such as artificial intelligence, interactive installations, and digital interfaces into my creations. At TAIRANHAO STUDIO, our mission is to craft artworks that are not only visually striking but also invite viewers to engage on a more profound, interactive level. We excel at transforming ordinary spaces into immersive, tech-driven environments that challenge perspectives and encourage active participation. The challenges we address often involve making high-tech art more accessible and relatable, bridging the divide between complexity and comprehension. What distinguishes our work is our dedication to sparking conversations about the intersection of society and technology. I take great pride in pushing the boundaries of what art can be, making intricate ideas both engaging and approachable. For those interested in my work, I want them to understand that it’s not just about the visual appeal—it’s about provoking thought and inspiring change through innovation.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, the three most impactful qualities and skills have been adaptability, interdisciplinary knowledge, and a strong sense of curiosity.

First, adaptability has been crucial in navigating the constantly evolving landscape of new media art and technology. The ability to pivot and embrace new tools, mediums, and ideas has allowed me to stay relevant and innovative in my work. For those early in their journey, I recommend staying open to change and continuously seeking out new learning opportunities—whether through formal education, online resources, or hands-on experimentation.

Second, interdisciplinary knowledge has been invaluable in bridging the gap between art and technology. Understanding both the creative and technical aspects of my work has enabled me to create more cohesive and impactful pieces. My advice is to cultivate a diverse skill set and explore areas outside your primary field of interest. This could mean learning basic programming, exploring different art forms, or delving into different subjects that interest you, which can provide new perspectives and ideas.

Finally, a strong sense of curiosity has driven much of my artistic exploration and innovation. Curiosity fuels creativity and leads to discoveries that can set your work apart. For those starting out, I encourage you to follow your interests wherever they lead, ask questions, and never stop exploring. It’s this curiosity that will keep your work fresh and your passion alive.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

A recent book that has impacted my artistic development is How to See the World by Nicholas Mirzoeff. This book offers a comprehensive look at visual culture in the digital age, exploring how images shape our understanding of the world and our place in it.

One of the most valuable insights from Mirzoeff’s book is his concept of “visual activism,” which highlights the power of images to influence social and political change. This idea has inspired me to think about how my work can do more than just present visually appealing content; it can also engage with and challenge societal issues. It has motivated me to create art that not only reflects the world but also has the potential to alter perceptions and inspire action.

Another impactful idea from the book is Mirzoeff’s exploration of the democratization of visual culture in the age of social media. He discusses how the proliferation of images online has shifted power dynamics, allowing more voices to be heard but also making it harder to distinguish between truth and manipulation. This has led me to consider the ethical implications of my work and how I can use my platform to contribute to more honest and constructive visual dialogues.

Mirzoeff’s insights into the power and responsibility of visual culture have been instrumental in shaping my approach to contemporary art, guiding me to create work that is both socially engaged and visually compelling.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tairanhao.studio/artworks
• Instagram: tyhao629