We recently connected with Lola Yiting Zhang and have shared our conversation below.
Lola Yiting, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
Nurturing creativity is akin to tending a vibrant, ever-evolving garden; it involves continuous cultivation, nourishment, and care. My creative vitality is sustained by my insatiable curiosity and a deep sense of wonder towards the world. I feed my imagination a rich diet of varied observations and experiences, consistently challenging myself to view the world through different lenses.
Nature serves as my infinite canvas of inspiration. The hidden beauty of intricate natural elements, unique patterns found in organisms, diverse textures of landscapes, and the subtle nuances often overlooked by others – all fuel my creativity and drive my artistic explorations. Observing these elements and bringing them to life in my designs is a process that never ceases to inspire me. The world, in its natural form, offers an unlimited source of inspiration, waiting to be discovered and interpreted through my artistic lens.
My attention to detail plays a crucial role in keeping my creativity alive. I relish in unearthing the subtleties that often go unnoticed and transforming the mundane into designs that echo my unique artistic voice. This meticulous observation process is not just limited to the natural world but extends to the myriad of books I read. Diving into various subjects beyond art, such as history, technology, biology, or even esoteric topics that pique my interest, expands my knowledge and perspective, adding more layers to my creative process.
The world is brimming with inspiration, seen and unseen. Through a curious lens, this world never runs out of intriguing elements for me to explore, learn from, and incorporate into my creations. Staying open, observant, and receptive to these myriad stimuli keeps my creative spirit not only alive but thriving.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am Lola Yiting Zhang, a concept artist working at the intersection of creativity and technology in the gaming industry. Presently, I am part of the team at Sucker Punch Productions, Sony Interactive Entertainment. My professional journey has led me to collaborate with industry giants such as Sony, Microsoft, and Netease on an array of AAA game projects, including my work on the globally acclaimed long-running Halo franchise. While I appreciate the numerous accolades I have received, the true reward for me is witnessing players worldwide engrossed in the games to which I’ve poured my heart and soul.
One aspect of my work that continually fascinates me is the ability to transform imaginative ideas into tangible experiences. By leveraging the potent tools of art and technology, I meld the familiar with the fantastical. This process of transforming the mundane into the extraordinary enables me to craft immersive gaming experiences that resonate with the audience on both relatable and thrilling levels.
As a concept artist, I view myself to be in a constant state of evolution, always looking for innovative ways to express ideas. My work often blends the known with the unknown, creating a unique amalgamation that resonates with the viewer on an emotional level.
In my role as a concept designer, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is just as critical as possessing a creative mind. It’s not enough to just generate unique ideas; it’s also vital to articulate them clearly and coherently. The true artistry lies in manifesting an idea in a way that captures and conveys its essence to everyone involved in the project. Continually striving to balance this clarity with the creative aspect of design is a challenge I embrace in my work.
At present, I am currently fully immersed in an exciting yet unannounced project that I believe will offer a fresh perspective to the gaming world. In addition to this, I am also gearing up for speaking appearances at various industry events and art colleges, giving me the chance to pass on the lessons I’ve learned and my unique perspective to aspiring artists. These platforms aren’t merely about sharing what I know, but they also offer chances to engage, build relationships, and stay fully involved in the industry.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
In my reflections on the journey I have traversed as a concept artist, three qualities have left the most profound impact: insatiable curiosity, problem-solving creativity, and resilience. They are interconnected, each amplifying the others. A mind fueled by curiosity can conjure unique problem-solving approaches, while resilience keeps the flame of curiosity and creativity alive amidst obstacles.
My unique perspective and style as an artist have been shaped by an insatiable curiosity. This fascination is not confined to art but branches out into diverse fields like technology, biology, and natural sciences. This curiosity and thirst for comprehending the world has led me to the raw, often overlooked beauty hidden in nature’s many forms. From the nuanced color palettes within creatures, insects, and natural substances to unique biological camouflage patterns and delicate textures, these elements form the heartbeat of my work. As I scrutinize and distill these elements, my artistic interpretations materialize, leading to creations that reverberate on a deep emotional level with viewers. This endless cycle of curiosity and discovery serves as a fountainhead of inspiration, and I believe it holds the potential to lead to truly original ideas for those embarking on their artistic voyage.
Problem-solving creativity is a vital skill, especially crucial in the entertainment industry and the role of a concept designer. The task goes beyond the mere creation of visually appealing designs. It demands the crafting of designs that are functional, practical, and robust enough to withstand scrutiny. In my work, I often find myself translating a director’s vision into a visual form or creating designs that need to adhere to certain constraints. This problem-solving aspect involves sifting through the “noise” to find the best solutions. It’s a challenge I embrace, one that constantly fuels my creative engine.
Resilience forms the third pillar, guiding me through the inevitable peaks and troughs of my creative career. The journey of a concept artist is replete with challenges – grappling with criticism and self-doubt, striking a balance between life and work, tackling tight deadlines and stress, and navigating financial uncertainties. There have been times when my creations did not meet my expectations and instances of rejection. However, I have learned to see these as not setbacks, but as invaluable lessons and opportunities for growth. In my perspective, rejection is always a redirection. Every setback has honed my artistic aesthetics, reinforcing the importance of perseverance.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
At the very core of my support system has been my mom, a constant pillar of strength throughout my journey. She has been there for me at every pivotal moment in my life, helping me navigate the ebbs and flows of my career. Her unwavering belief in me, even in moments when my self-belief wavered, has been an incredible source of courage.
I can trace back the genesis of my journey into the art world to the very first comic book she bought me in elementary school. She also supported me when I made the tough decision to quit my first job in China to continue pursuing my goals in the U.S. The journey to becoming a concept artist working in the entertainment industry has not been easy. It’s akin to a mental game, with constant battles against both internal and external forces while trying to maintain a consistent flow of inspiration and creativity. Having my mom’s unwavering support throughout this emotionally and physically challenging journey has been a profound blessing.
In the professional realm, three mentors have been pivotal in my development: Kevin Chen, John Park, and Saiful Haque. They were the key designers who provided crucial insights when I was just beginning my journey as a concept designer. Their mentorship has been transformational, honing not only my professional skills and problem-solving abilities but also imparting me with a professional mindset. Their guidance has shaped my approach to design and helped me grow into the artist I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artstation.com/lolazhang
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lolaneedstosketchmooore/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/lola-zhang-lolazhang
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lolasketchmoore
