Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shan Xu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

Imagine a world where every day you enter a virtual forest made of digital pixels and vibrant holograms. That’s my life as a new media artist. One of my favorite creations, “Bambitopia,” is a digital utopia where virtual identities frolic like mythical creatures, exploring the boundaries of what art can be. It’s a playground of the future, where the lines between the virtual and the real blur, and “Bambi” from all over the world can go anywhere.

But every once in a while, I find myself daydreaming about a parallel universe. In this universe, I wear a crisp suit and carry a briefcase. I clock in at 9 AM, work at a tidy desk, and attend meetings in conference rooms with complimentary coffee.

The last time this fantasy took hold was during the intense launch of the Useless Art Agency with my partners in 2023. After a marathon 12-hour brainstorming session, I slumped in my chair and let my mind wander. I pictured myself in that parallel universe, where my biggest worry was picking the right high-heeled shoes for a meeting. As I imagined it, I could almost feel the humdrum tranquility wash over me. But then, just as quickly, I was jolted back to reality by a notification on my phone. A new piece of digital art had just been uploaded to our platform, and it was stunning. The colors, the movement, the ingenuity—it was a reminder of why I chose this path.

Bridging the gap between the digital and the natural world, and seeing others inspired by my work, far outweighs the appeal of a regular job. The creative chaos, the late-night inspirations, and the magical moments of artistic breakthrough make every challenge worth it.

So, while the idea of a steady paycheck and a predictable routine might occasionally seem tempting, it’s the unpredictable, vibrant life of an artist that truly makes me happy.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hi, I’m Shan Xu, a new media artist and co-founder of the Useless Art Agency. My journey into the world of art began with a fascination for the intersection of technology and nature. I create digital utopias like “Bambitopia,” where virtual identities frolic like mythical creatures, exploring the boundaries of what art can be. This work aims to blur the lines between the virtual and the real, sparking conversations about our digital future.

My art concept always combines cutting-edge technology with a deep respect for nature. I believe that art can bridge the gap between these two worlds, creating a harmonious blend that’s both thought-provoking and visually stunning. What sets my work apart is this unique fusion, which not only entertains but also inspires others to think differently about the world around them.

I’m most proud of launching the Useless Art Agency in 2023, a pioneering platform for new media art trading. This project aims to be a game-changer, using innovative strategies to add new energy to the digital art marketplace. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see artists from around the world showcase their work and connect with a global audience.

For those just getting to know me and my work, I hope to convey a sense of wonder and possibility. My goal is to inspire people to see the beauty in the merging of technology and nature, and to appreciate the intricate, often hidden, connections in our world.

Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?

NFTs are like digital magic beans. They turn art into something you can truly own in the digital world. I think they’re amazing; in the meantime, they offer a groundbreaking way for artists to monetize their digital creations and directly connect with collectors. My own experience with NFTs has been fantastic. For instance, my project “Bambi” has been sold and collected by art enthusiasts globally, which has been both exciting and rewarding. NFTs turn digital art into unique, ownable assets, opening up a whole new realm of possibilities for creativity and ownership. It’s like a digital frontier where art meets technology.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being an artist is seeing how my work impacts others. I remember one particular exhibition of my project, “Fiction of Nature,” an experimental video design that explores the interaction between nature and technology. During the opening night, I noticed a young couple standing mesmerized by the digital landscapes.

They started discussing how the piece made them feel a deep connection to the natural world, even though it was all virtual. The woman mentioned that the visuals reminded her of her childhood home by the forest, while the man talked about how it made him think about the future of our planet. They spent nearly an hour in front of the installation, sharing their personal stories and interpretations.

At the end of the night, they approached me to say how much the piece had moved them and sparked meaningful conversations about their own lives and their relationship with nature. Moments like these, where my art resonates deeply with others and inspires reflection and dialogue, are what make being an artist incredibly rewarding. It’s these connections and the ability to touch people’s lives through my work that truly bring me joy.

Contact Info:

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