10 Questions with Yilin Du

Yilin Du is a London-based digital artist and character designer with a diverse background in creating multimedia content. Her creations aim to provide insight into how digital technologies, new materials, and aesthetics could change our approach to design and thinking.

Employing versatile methods, Du's artistic practices seamlessly merge the physical and digital realms, exploring a broad range of subjects, including the digitization of traditional craftsmanship and the evolving nature of identities in our constant engagement with media platforms. After graduating with an MA degree from Central Saint Martins in 2022, Du's works have been showcased at Tate Britain, Dutch Design Week, and London Design Festival in 2022. Additionally, her creative endeavors have been prominently featured in the esteemed ELLE UK magazine's June 2023 edition. With a BA degree in Theater, Film, and TV Character design, Du sees make-up as another means of identity expression. Having been active for years in the fashion industry, her innovative make-ups have gained media attention from Vogue China, Harper's Bazaar, and more.

Yilin Du's artistic journey is an exploration into the multifaceted realm of human identity. Her evolution from character design to digital art encapsulates a quest to transcend conventional narratives, immersing them within the boundless landscapes of the digital sphere. Embracing the expansive potential of virtual space, Du unearths new dimensions within storytelling and character portrayal, prompting a profound shift in her creative trajectory.

Her artistic oeuvre resonates with a profound inquiry into the interplay between artificial intelligence, technology, and the intricate tapestry of our identities. Du's fascination with how our interactions with digital entities mold our sense of self fuels her creative process. Through her project "Make Man Up," she intricately navigates the concept of the 'digital self.' This series of design provocations set within a digital chat room serves as a captivating exploration of the evolving contours of individual and collective identities under the influence of technology.

Du's artistic endeavors culminate in a thought-provoking video, a poignant testament to the profound impact technology wields on our perceptions of selfhood. Her work serves as a mirror reflecting the intricate dance between humanity and the digital landscape, inviting contemplation on the intricate evolution of our personal and shared identities in this technologically mediated era.

@yilin_futures_du

INTERVIEW

Why are you an artist, and how did you become one?

Art isn't just a choice for me; it's an innate part of who I am. Visual is a language I speak fluently, expressing thoughts, emotions, and complexities that words can't always capture. My journey into art began as a fascination that grew into a passion. From studying Theater, Film, and TV Fine Arts Design to Material Futures at Central Saint Martins, each step nurtured my artistic sensibilities and expanded my creative horizons.

How did you develop into the artist you are today? What training or experiences helped you in the process?

My multidisciplinary education and diverse background in multimedia content creation have been pivotal in shaping my artistic identity. Each experience, whether in visual art or design, has contributed to my growth. The exploration during my master's course at Central Saint Martins has been particularly influential, allowing me to blend physical and digital realms and influencing my approach to art and design.

Why digital art and character design? How do they help in expressing yourself as an artist?

Digital art and character design offer a canvas for boundless visual art expression. They allow me to seamlessly merge technology, aesthetics, and storytelling. Characters, for me, embody the multifaceted nature of human identity. Through them, I navigate the nuances of emotions, experiences, and societal dynamics, using digital mediums to bring these complexities to life. I was really drawn by the cartoon characters [especially Japanese anime] when I was young. Through different fictional characters, I got to explore my own personality and fantasize about my identity.

Your work explores human identity. How does this translate into your art?

Human identity is a tapestry of diverse experiences and facets, and my art mirrors this complexity. It delves into the evolving nature of identities, especially in a digitally connected world. Each character, each piece, is a reflection of this exploration, portraying the layers that form our identities.

How much of your personal experience is found in your work? What inspires you beyond personal experiences?

My personal experiences undoubtedly influence my art, infusing it with emotions, reflections, and perspectives. However, I draw inspiration from various sources—childhood anime, nature, technology, music, and the amalgamation of traditional and contemporary elements. These diverse influences contribute to the richness and depth of my creations.
Artists Hieronymus Bosch and Sanyu have inspired me a lot in recent years. And I have become more interested in Buddhism and Taoism in the past two years. Trying to understand the philosophical attitude of "Tao follows nature". I draw inspiration and energy from all things natural and seek inner peace.

Storytelling is central to your work. What stories do you aim to narrate, and what messages do you want to communicate?

I aim to narrate stories that resonate universally—narratives that explore the human condition, our relationship with technology, and the intricate web of identities. Through these stories, I seek to communicate messages of empathy, introspection, and a deeper understanding of the world we inhabit. Inspired by Ānāpānasati—a Buddhist practice centered on breath and awareness, I navigate the convergence of our physical existence with the profound impact of technology on our mental and philosophical dimensions With a foundation rooted in the essence of mindfulness.

Your venture into videomaking with 'Make up Man' is intriguing. How does this differ from your usual creative process?

Videomaking introduces a dynamic dimension to storytelling. It requires a comprehensive approach, integrating visuals, narrative arcs, and character development over a longer duration. Unlike static art, videos demand a sequential and evolving narrative, challenging me to delve deeper into character emotions and storylines.

Do you plan to experiment with new mediums or techniques? How do you envision your work evolving?

I'm constantly drawn to exploring new frontiers. Experimentation with emerging technologies, immersive experiences, or even blending different artistic mediums excites me. I envision my work evolving into more interactive experiences, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive and engage with art. I seek to integrate sound engineering and touch designer technologies to heighten the audience's sensory experience. This integration will aim to influence the audience's interaction with digital entities, using sound and visuals as catalysts for a profound encounter.

What's your view on AI-generated content and its impact on the art world, given your focus on digital art and technology?

AI-generated content undoubtedly presents intriguing possibilities. It challenges traditional notions of authorship and creation while offering new avenues for artistic expression. However, I believe the true essence of art lies in the human experience, emotions, and intent behind the creation. AI can complement and expand artistic horizons but might never replicate the depth of human expression.

Where do you see yourself and your work in the next five years?

In five years, I envision further exploration at the intersection of art, technology, and identity. I aim to continue exhibiting internationally, collaborating across disciplines, and pushing the boundaries of digital art. My aspiration is to contribute meaningfully to the evolving dialogue on identity and creativity, creating immersive experiences that resonate globally. I'm currently working on projects that combine sound art and avatars—an amalgamation of artificial intelligence and aesthetics—illustrating the evolution of human identity within digital environments. Striving to craft a compelling narrative that transcends conventional boundaries, conveyed through an ethereal visual language.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.