Today we’d like to introduce you to Yueyue (lydia) Zhang
Hi Yueyue (Lydia), please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always had a passion for art since I was very young—probably around kindergarten. I found that drawing was an easier way for me to connect with the world than through words, and it became my personal form of communication. As a kid, I would doodle everywhere, even on the walls and doors of my bedroom. Art became my constant companion, especially during high school when I wasn’t very outgoing and found comfort in sketching in the margins of my textbooks. It was during this time that I realized I wanted to pursue art professionally. While others were focused on exams and conventional academic paths, I was quietly sketching and dreaming of a future where I could turn my passion into a career. I went on to study at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where I refined my skills and deepened my love for storytelling through visuals. After graduation, I worked on various projects, including as a storyboard artist and lighting artist.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My experience as a lighting artist, however, has been a really big struggle along the way. This project is special because it requires a good understanding of lighting’s shape and color. When my lead invited me to join the lighting group for the 2D animation part of the feature film Harold and the Purple Crayon, I felt both excited and nervous. It was a Sony Pictures feature film project, which meant I was working alongside incredibly talented professional artists, making the responsibility feel greater than ever before
The lighting process itself was intense, with deadlines set for every two to three days per shot. Along the way, I had to revise my work based on feedback from my lead. On top of that, the team was constantly updating new plugins and tools to improve the lighting process. I had to quickly learn how to use them and incorporate them into my shots before the deadline.
It is amazing to have my first professional credit on such a big project. I’m really happy, even though I was under a lot of pressure at the time, and sometimes I would cry while working. But if you don’t challenge your comfort zone, you’ll never know how far you can go. I truly believe that when you push yourself, you can make a progress very quickly.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I had the chance to work on several exciting projects, including an internship as a storyboard artist at 137 Ewes Production, as well as creating a storyboard for a commercial short in collaboration with CoverGirl through SCAD Pro.
In addition, I’ve worked as a freelance lighting artist with Bent Image Lab, where I contributed to the 2D animation of the feature film Harold and the Purple Crayon, which was released in August. I also had the privilege of working on The Pope’s Dog with SCAD animation studio, which was nominated for the 42nd College Television Awards.
What sets me apart from others is my focus on the emotional aspect of storytelling and how I use art to connect with people. Whether I’m drawing storyboards or illustrations, my goal is to make sure my work is emotionally resonant and deeply engages the audience.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
A surprising fact that most people might not know about me is that I actually find it difficult to present myself or talk about my work. Creating art is my comfort zone, but sharing it and collaborating with others can be a challenge for me. This is especially true in professional settings, where I often feel nervous or uncertain. And I feel more duty and pursue perfection when it comes to professional work. Over time, I’ve learned that pushing through these moments of discomfort is part of the growth process .Another fact that most people might not know is I also need more time to work on my own art or spend time to stay alone to restore my energy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yuesaki.wixsite.com/website/storyboard
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lydiazhang_life/
