Today we’d like to introduce you to Xuan(kristy) Huang

Hi Xuan(kristy), we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

My name is Kristy Huang, and I am currently working as an FX artist in the film industry. I have had the privilege of working on several award-winning shows such as The Changeling, The Diplomat, and American Horror Story.

I grew up in Guangzhou, China, where I developed an early interest in the arts and media. During middle and high school, I worked as a content creator for the student union, solidifying my desire to pursue a career in a media-related field.

My first job was at Guangdong Television Station as an animator and broadcasting motion graphic designer. There, I gained extensive experience in TV production workflows. After two years, I decided to return to school to refine my skills and focus on visual effects.

I attended the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where I studied Visual Effects. During my time at SCAD, I participated in numerous student films, and one of our films was selected for the Houston Film Festival.

After graduating from SCAD, I began working as an FX artist, specializing in simulation and nature creation. I thoroughly enjoy the process of mimicking real environments in the digital world and providing authentic experiences for audiences.

Looking ahead, I aim to create even more beautiful and realistic visuals, enhancing the impact on my audiences. I am particularly fascinated by natural phenomena such as tsunamis and tornadoes.

Reflecting on my journey, I have learned that curiosity is the strongest motivation for advancing in one’s career.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

My journey as an FX artist has had its ups and downs. While there have been many rewarding moments, I’ve faced several challenges along the way.

Starting in Guangzhou, China, I found limited resources and opportunities in the film and television industry. The media field was highly competitive, making it difficult to find a foothold. As a newcomer, I had to deal with very low pay and longer work hours compared to my friends in other industries.

During my time at SCAD, I faced intense coursework and high expectations. Balancing multiple projects while staying creative under pressure was challenging. I remember one particularly complex simulation project that required many late nights and constant iteration before I finally mastered the techniques.

In my career, working on high-profile shows like The Changeling and American Horror Story brought its own set of pressures. Meeting tight deadlines while ensuring top-quality visual effects was a constant challenge. There were moments when projects didn’t go as planned, and I had to quickly adapt and problem-solve.

Currently, one of the ongoing challenges is the lack of work in the market. The writer and actor strike last year led to many projects being canceled or rescheduled, resulting in significant job losses in the industry.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

As an FX artist in the film industry, I bring stories to life by creating visually stunning special effects. I’ve had the opportunity to work on several high-profile shows, including The Changeling and American Horror Story. These projects allowed me to push the boundaries of what is possible with visual effects, contributing to their critical acclaim.
My main areas of expertise are in natural simulations and environmental effects. I’m known for my ability to create realistic water, fire, and atmospheric effects using advanced software like Houdini and Maya. I am most proud of my work on The Diplomat, where I developed a complex sequence involving a storm at sea. This project showcased my ability to combine technical skills with creative vision, resulting in a realistic and dramatically compelling scene.
My dedication to realism and innovative problem-solving skills set me apart from others in the field. I approach each project with a fresh perspective, ensuring that my effects not only look good but also serve the story effectively.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?

During the Covid-19 crisis, like many others, I found myself isolated at home for an extended period. Initially, I thought I would handle it well. I considered myself good at being alone and keeping myself occupied, so I assumed everything would be fine.

However, after a few months, I began to lose my sense of time. The days blurred together, and my routine started to break down. I found it increasingly difficult to stay motivated and maintain a structured schedule.

It was during this challenging time that I met my cat Juju. Adopting him turned out to be a transformative experience. My cat brought a new rhythm to my days. His needs – feeding, playing, and simply being there – provided a structure that I had been missing before. He became a living reminder of the passage of time and helped me regain a sense of normalcy.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of companionship and routine. My cat not only corrected my schedule but also brought joy and comfort during a difficult period. I realized how significant pets can be in our lives, providing emotional support and helping us maintain a healthy routine.

The Covid-19 crisis showed me that even though I thought I was fine being alone, having a pet can improve your life. Pets aren’t just companions; they help you keep a routine, bring happiness, and give you a sense of responsibility, which is especially important when you’re isolated.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://xuanhuang.pb.online/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayakristyart/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@krih_vfx