10 Questions with Yulun Liu
Yulun Liu is an architect and digital artist based in Chicago whose work bridges the disciplines of art and architectural/environmental design. Holding a Master of Architecture degree from the Weitzman School of Design at the University of Pennsylvania, Yulun's creative journey is deeply rooted in her architectural training and enriched by her passion for creating immersive experiences that blend natural art and built environments. Her work is inspired by the resilience of abandoned landscapes and nature's therapeutic potential. Yulun's practice transforms forgotten spaces into inhabitable landscapes, fostering dialogue on mental health, environmental stewardship, and the healing power of art. Her projects reflect a meticulous exploration of spatial design and a commitment to reinterpreting natural forms into captivating visual and experiential narratives. As a multi-faceted artist, Yulun's canvas extends beyond conventional architecture, weaving botanical and ecological design elements into spaces that transcend traditional boundaries. Her work invites audiences to connect deeply with their environment and engage in moments of reflection, healing, and inspiration. Yulun's goal is to push the boundaries of art and architecture, creating immersive environments that resonate emotionally and intellectually with her audiences, while fostering a profound connection between people and nature.
Yulun Liu - Portrait
ARTIST STATEMENT
Yulun Liu is an architect and digital artist whose work explores the intricate relationship between nature, architecture, and human well-being. Inspired by the resilience of abandoned landscapes and the therapeutic potential of natural environments, her practice focuses on creating immersive experiences that blur the boundaries between art and architecture. With a commitment to reinterpreting natural forms and weaving them into human narratives, Yulunseeks to provoke reflection on the interconnectedness of mental health, environmental stewardship, and the healing power of art. Her work transforms forgotten spaces into inhabitable landscapes, fostering a dialogue about how art and design can support community and individual well-being. The featured pieces in this exhibition are part of Yulun's ongoing exploration of eco-art therapy, where architectural interventions and botanical elements converge to create spaces that inspire meditation, healing, and connection to nature.
Natural Reversal, Ground View, Digital Art, 2021 © Yulun Liu
INTERVIEW
Let's start with your background. Can you tell us about your journey from architectural training to digital art and how these disciplines influence each other in your practice?
I initially trained in architecture at the University of Pennsylvania, where I pursued my Master of Architecture. UPenn's approach to architectural education - known for its exquisite graphic and ornamental design had a profound influence onme. Sometimes, it felt more like I was designing an art object rather than a traditional building. This emphasis on visual and formal experimentation led me to explore complex geometries, ultimately guiding me toward computational design and broader digital arts.
Over time, I realized that digital art gave me the freedom to experiment with form, color, and interactivity in ways that traditional architecture can sometimes constrain due to practical and regulatory considerations. By blending architectural principles of space, structure, and functionality with the expressive potential of digital art, I've found a way to rapidly test ideas, push boundaries, and enhance my architectural work. Each discipline enriches the other: the conceptual thinking from art informs new architectural visions, while the technical rigor of architecture ensures that my digital art remains grounded in tangible experiences.
How did you first get interested in digital art? And what does it help you express that architecture is not capable of?
I first realized that architecture itself could also be seen as an art piece, and I didn't have to limit myself to traditional architectural tools. The same software I used for architecture could be leveraged to create any kind of art I wanted. My interest in digital art emerged when I was experimenting with parametric modeling tools for designing architectural facades. I discovered that these tools could generate endlessly evolving patterns and shapes—expressions that extend beyond the practical constraints of buildings.
Digital art allows me to explore ephemeral, abstract, or even fantastical concepts without worrying about structural feasibility, building codes, or budgets. It offers an outlet for the more poetic side of my imagination, enabling me to manipulate light, form, and motion to create immersive experiences that elicit emotional or contemplative responses. In essence, digital art liberates me from the confines of bricks and mortar, opening up entirely new realms of creativity.
Natural Reversal, Aerial View, Digital Art, 2021 © Yulun Liu
Natural Reversal, Plan, Digital Art, 2021 © Yulun Liu
You describe your work as blurring the boundaries between art and architecture. Could you share an example of a project where this interdisciplinary approach stands out?
One example is a research-driven project I've been developing called "Hilling," where I integrate machine learning to analyze thousands of images of abandoned landscapes. The aim is to uncover hidden ecological and historical layers, and then reinterpret them as immersive art installations and potential revitalized spaces. The machine learning output itself is a digital artwork that carries the memory of these abandoned sites, and I use it as the foundation for the architectural design—treating the building's shell as an art piece in its own right.
The project began as a digital exploration, an artistic representation of neglected terrains, but it also includes a practical architectural proposal to transform these sites into recreational or therapeutic environments. By merging data analysis, digital artwork, and architectural design, "Hilling" embodies the fluid transition between art and architecture.
What is your creative process like? Can you walk us through the creation of a new project, from the first idea to the final outcome?
My creative process typically begins with an intensive research phase. This might include gathering ecological data, photographing the site, or reviewing historical records and cultural contexts. During this stage, I'm also brainstorming the artistic angle—identifying how digital art can enhance the project's narrative or sensory experience.
Once I have a general vision, I translate these insights into initial sketches or parametric models. I use various digital tools and simulations, ranging from generative algorithms that experiment with complex geometries to software that can animate environmental factors (like wind or sunlight). With a clear direction in mind, I incorporate fundamental principles such as sustainability, structural feasibility, and user experience. At this stage, digital art plays a critical role: I often create immersive visualizations, augmented reality (AR) mock-ups, or virtual reality (VR) demos to test how users might engage with the environment.
Finally, I bring all these elements together into a comprehensive proposal or final artwork. This includes detailed renderings, video walkthroughs, and immersive simulations that demonstrate how the project will function in real life. This blend of research, digital exploration, and practical iteration is vital to my workflow. It allows me to balance the imaginative potential of digital art with the real-world requirements of architecture and sustainability.
Natural Reversal, Section Detail and Model, Digital Art, 2021 © Yulun Liu
As you mention in your statement, your work focuses on the resilience of abandoned landscapes and their transformation into inhabitable spaces. What sparked your interest in these forgotten environments?
I've always been drawn to places that carry layers of history—landscapes that might be overlooked or dismissed as "useless." There's a haunting beauty and a hidden potential within these sites, whether they're post-industrial zones, unused urban lots, or neglected natural habitats. Rather than seeing them as liabilities, I view them as canvases for creative and ecological regeneration. The challenge of breathing new life into these abandoned environments became a personal passion, fueled by a belief that architecture and art can spark meaningful social and environmental change.
My training in architecture provided the foundational tools to envision how to repurpose these spaces. Over time, I also began exploring how digital art could highlight and transform forgotten environments. By layering computational design strategies onto neglected terrains, I found new ways to infuse them with aesthetic and functional value, often inspiring communities and prompting dialogue around sustainability and shared heritage.
Ultimately, I strive to honor each site's unique past while guiding it toward a more inclusive and sustainable future. Whether the outcome is a public installation or a larger redevelopment proposal, my goal remains the same: to create spaces that are both visually compelling and socially beneficial, revitalizing neglected corners of our world into places of renewed vitality and purpose.
Mental health and environmental stewardship are also central themes in your work. How do you integrate these into your projects, and why are they important to you?
I believe architecture and art can profoundly affect our well-being. In my projects, I often integrate green spaces, natural materials, and restorative design principles—sometimes referred to as "eco-therapy." By bringing elements of nature into built environments, we can reduce stress, enhance mental health, and deepen our connection to the planet. For example, in my project, Hilling, the massing of the building draws inspiration from the site's historical layers, transforming the architecture itself into an art piece that embodies green features and encourages community members to engage in eco-art therapy. This approach not only respects the cultural memory of a place but also promotes communal well-being through active involvement with nature.
Similarly, environmental stewardship shapes every aspect of my work, from material selection and construction methods to energy systems. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about creating spaces that honor both human occupants and the broader ecosystem. Mental health and ecological sustainability are deeply intertwined—when our environment is healthier, our collective well-being naturally follows.
Natural Reversal, Outside View, Digital Art, 2021 © Yulun Liu
Nature is a significant source of inspiration for your designs. How do you reinterpret natural forms into the built environments and digital art you create?
I often begin by closely observing patterns in nature: the branching of trees, the fractal geometry of leaves, or the rhythmic layering of rock formations. Using computational tools, I translate these patterns into digital prototypes that guide my designs in both architecture and art. In architecture, this might mean a façade that mimics the adaptive qualities of a butterfly's wing or a structural system inspired by skeletal forms. I also incorporate natural motifs into color palettes, lighting schemes, and interactive features, blurring the line between built and living environments. In my digital art, these same natural patterns evolve into immersive visual experiences—generative animations that replicate organic growth or fluid simulations reminiscent of ocean currents. This biomimicry approach allows me to capture the elegance of nature in both physical spaces and virtual creations, inviting viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of the natural and built worlds.
As someone working at the intersection of architecture, art, and ecology, how do you envision your role in addressing pressing global issues such as climate change and urban isolation?
My role is to create tangible examples of how design and creativity can mitigate these challenges. Through thoughtful project proposals, I highlight sustainable building materials, energy-efficient systems, and adaptive reuse of neglected sites. Simultaneously, my digital art explores themes like rising sea levels, desertification, or urban loneliness, aiming to raise awareness and spark dialogue. By bridging artistry with practical design, I strive to offer not just warnings but alsohope—demonstrating how we might reinvent our cities, infrastructure, and landscapes for resilience. If I can inspire communities, policymakers, or fellow professionals to act more responsibly, I consider that a success.
Natural Reversal, Central View, Digital Art, 2021 © Yulun Liu
Natural Reversal, Immersive View, Digital Art, 2021 © Yulun Liu
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for your practice? Are there particular landscapes, concepts, or collaborations you hope to explore in the future?
I plan to deepen my partnerships with ecologists, psychologists, and technologists, building interdisciplinary teams that push beyond conventional boundaries. I'm particularly drawn to large-scale urban revitalization efforts, where neglected industrial sites or fragmented neighborhoods can be transformed into inclusive, green communities. In parallel, I want to expand my digital art practice by experimenting with virtual and augmented reality, creating interactive experiences that foster a global conversation about sustainability and social well-being. Ultimately, I see my future practice combininghands-on architectural projects, immersive art installations, and research that tackles today's urgent social and environmental questions.
Lastly, what are you working on now? And where can our readers find your next?
I'm currently working as an architect at the international architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in Chicago. In my professional practice, I've contributed to an airport project and handled a variety of day-to-day design tasks. Right now, I'm primarily focused on the design and development of enclosure systems, which demands extensive collaboration among interdisciplinary teams—especially in blending architectural design with structural engineering.
Outside of my work at SOM, I continue to create a series of digital art pieces and often participate in international architectural competitions. These competitions give me the freedom to integrate my passion for digital art without many of the real-world constraints typically found in architectural design. I'll be sharing my new designs on Instagram, so please stay tuned for updates!
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.
