Interview with Yinzhu Yao
1. Please tell us something about your background and your art journey so far.
I'm Yinzhu Yao, a dynamic architectural designer and artist whose expertise is shaped by a broad and diverse background, spanning multiple countries and disciplines. With Master degree from Washington University in St.Louis, my design philosophy focuses on creating spaces that are innovative, sustainable, and deeply connected to their cultural and environmental contexts. As a Designer at Gensler in D.C., I am playing a crucial role in high-stakes projects that demanded both creative ingenuity and technical precision in North America and Middle East. My experiences at Sou Fujimoto Atelier and Kengo Kuma & Associates provided me with unique insights into innovative design philosophies, reinforcing my belief in the power of architecture to harmonize functionality with aesthetic beauty.
2. Can you tell us more about the theme in your art and your inspiration?
My interest in architecture was born out of intrigue: how do spaces shape experiences and affect emotions? Growing up surrounded by different kinds of architecture, I became aware that buildings reflect cultural values, history, and social identity. This was an early realization that instilled in me the urge to design spaces that would serve more than functional needs but could narrate stories and strike a chord with people.
My multicultural experience brought up my design philosophy. International studying and working widened my view towards design; I see architecture as a universal language with limitless interpretations. Experiences in China, Japan, and the United States exposed me to approaches to form, materiality, and spatial arrangement that were different. Each had its unique perspective to teach me about the importance of harmonizing aesthetics with functionality and sustainability. The mix of such global insight has driven me to create designs that not only pay homage to cultural heritage but also meet modern needs, fashioning spaces that connect with people on both an emotional and intellectual level.
3. How does your art life impact other parts of your life?
Most areas of my life have been deeply influenced by my life in art and architecture, as this greatly moulds the way I vision things and tackle different challenges. Architecture teaches me to pay attention to both the big picture and the minutest detail, a frame of mind that carries over into everyday life when I am faced with difficult situations that have to be tackled with thoughtfulness and balance. My artistic practice basically fuels creativity through the courage to see things from different perspectives-to take risks and to experiment-qualities which enhance my problem-solving skills at both personal and professional levels.
Art and architecture also taught me the values of patience, persistence, and how to be adaptive. Building a structure or creating art requires dedication and is an iterative process-some very valuable lessons that help me approach other areas of my life with a growth mindset. Whether I am working on a team, planning a project, or just engaging in day-to-day interactions, this educational foundation built an appreciation for creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
4. Could you share any difficulties and hardships you had to face in life and how or if you managed/overcame them?
One of the significant life challenges I have encountered was the need to adjust to diverse cultures and environments that arose from the furtherance of my education and career in other countries. Relocation to places which were, to a large extent, unfamiliar and devoid of close and strong support demanded resilience, adaptability, and openness to change from me. At times, communication became a big mountain to climb, and creating a sense of home because of barriers in languages and cultural nuances was daunting. At first, I had some feelings of isolation and self-doubt, especially when trying to work with high-stakes projects or complete academic programs in unfamiliar environments.
I overcame these challenges by trying to make sure I built relationships and that every new experience provided a learning curve for me. I searched out mentors and other colleagues who could advise me through the processes, and I really worked hard to dive into and absorb the culture of each place, picking up new perspectives that served me well. All these experiences have taught me patience, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for diversity that has enriched my work and personal life. Today, I look upon those hardships as defining moments that strengthened my character to stand up to the complexities of working in a global, interconnected world.
5. Is the artist life lonely? Please share your thoughts and experiences.
Human is always lonely, and artist is human.
Mostly, for creativeness to flow, it demands solitude, deep thought, and lots of hours spent alone, really. That is the unique challenge along an artist's journey: to find a balance between being isolated to create and the need to connect and share. This solitude for me is a prerequisite and, at the same time, a gift. It gives me the opportunity to dive deep inside of my work, being free with ideas and absolutely hooked with my thoughts and feelings.On the other side, a great part of the artist's life is not about solitude. A collaboration with other creative people, sharing my work with the audience, brings in a sense of community and fulfillment. An exhibition, discussion, or feedback provided by others enriches somebody and keeps them in company. While isolation allows me the time to work through ideas, balance comes in seeking opportunities for connection, sharing, and growing with others in the creative field. It is through this mix of solitude and community that my work carries depth and motivates me.
6. What are you working on at the moment and are there any upcoming events you would like to talk about?
At the moment, I am involved in several exciting projects that explore the intersections of architecture, culture, and human experience. One of the highlights of my upcoming schedule is my participation in a few prestigious exhibitions. In December 2024, my work will be featured in the "TYNDALL" 2nd Esposizione Scambio dell’Arte Contemporanea di Italia at Isolart Gallery in Florence, Italy, curated in collaboration with the National Association of Fine Arts of Italy. Additionally. Now, my piece “AFTERMATH IN TRIPOLI” will be showcased in the exhibition "On the Critical Point: Wanderlust and Nostalgia in the New Age" at the Penn Museum in Philadelphia. This exhibition delves into the dialogue between humanism and a technologically evolving world.
Website: https://yyz-creative.framer.website/
Social Mdedia: Yinzhu (@eugeneyee_) • Instagram photos and videos