We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tairan Hao a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Tairan, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I learned my craft through a combination of formal education, self-driven experimentation, and mentorship. My foundational skills were honed at art school where I acquired both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed in traditional and digital art forms. If I had known then what I know now, I would have embraced technology even earlier in my career, which would have accelerated my integration of digital tools with traditional techniques. The most essential skills that I developed were not only technical abilities like programming and digital design but also creative thinking and problem-solving, which are crucial in the process of making new media artworks. The biggest obstacles were often related to access to advanced technology and the steep learning curve associated with new tools. Finding resources and time for continual learning and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies were also significant challenges.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am Tairan Hao, a multidisciplinary artist immersed in the fascinating intersection of technology and traditional art. My journey into the arts began with a deep-rooted passion for drawing and sculpture, leading me to pursue a BFA from California College of the Arts and later an MFA from the University of Pennsylvania. Over the years, I have gravitated towards new media art, incorporating elements like artificial intelligence, interactive installations, and digital interfaces into my work. My studio, TAIRANHAO STUDIO, focuses on creating artworks that are not only visually captivating but also engage audiences on a deeper, interactive level. We specialize in transforming conventional spaces into immersive, technological experiences that provoke thought and encourage viewer participation. The problems we solve for our clients involve bridging the gap between high-tech and accessibility, making sophisticated art approachable and understandable. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating art that initiates dialogue about societal and technological issues. I am most proud of my role in pushing the boundaries of art and technology, making complex concepts accessible and engaging. For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my work is about more than aesthetics—it’s about challenging perceptions and inspiring change through innovation.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound ability to connect with and impact others on a deep, emotional level through my creations. Each piece of art is a personal narrative, an invitation into my perspective of the world, and when someone resonates with that, it’s incredibly affirming. Additionally, I find immense satisfaction in the challenge of transforming abstract concepts into tangible experiences that engage and provoke thought. There’s a unique thrill in pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms by integrating new technologies, thereby continually redefining what art can be and how it interacts with the viewer. Seeing people interact with my installations and hearing their interpretations and emotional responses are profoundly fulfilling. It reaffirms my belief in art’s power to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, fostering a shared human experience that is both universal and intimate.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The driving mission of my creative journey is to explore and articulate the evolving relationship between humans and technology through art. I aim to use my work as a platform to provoke thoughtful discussion on how technological advancements are reshaping our perceptions of identity, reality, and connectivity. By integrating interactive technologies into traditional art forms, I strive to create experiences that challenge viewers to reconsider their interactions with technology and its implications in their daily lives. This fusion of art and technology not only broadens the scope of my creative expression but also serves as a tool for education and social commentary, pushing the boundaries of both fields to foster a deeper understanding of the world we live in today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tairanhao.studio/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tyhao629/