Today we’d like to introduce you to Candice Chou.
Hi Candice, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m Hsinping Chou, but everyone calls me Candice. I was born and raised in Taiwan. Currently, I’m pursuing an MA in Animation and Visual Effects, specializing in modeling, texturing, and look development. My path into the world of animation began during my undergraduate years when I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication Design from Kun Shan University in Taiwan.
During my time at university, I faced a pivotal decision in my second year: whether to focus on Graphic Design or Animation. Choosing animation opened up a whole new world for me. It’s a vast field that exposed me to everything from motion media to 3D animation, from modeling to rigging, over the course of my three years in college.
Despite the breadth of knowledge I acquired, I came to realize that job opportunities in the animation field in Taiwan were limited. This realization led me to pursue a master’s degree in Animation at the Savannah College of Art and Design in the United States.
After several quarters of study, I found myself drawn to the fascinating world of texturing. I discovered that I thoroughly enjoy creating projects with intricate details. Consequently, I decided to pursue another master’s degree, this time in Visual Effects.
Visual Effects has always held a special allure for me, particularly the artistry and aesthetics involved in creating visually striking CG models. My ultimate goal is to become a proficient CG generalist and contribute to the VFX industry by crafting captivating visuals that captivate audiences.
That’s a brief overview of my journey so far, and I’m excited to continue growing and learning in this field.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, especially for international students like me who aspire to excel academically and secure promising job prospects in the United States. One of the most formidable hurdles I encountered on my study abroad journey was the language barrier. Despite my unwavering attention in class, understanding everything the professor conveyed remained an uphill battle. My speaking skills faced a similar obstacle; it often felt like there was a missing puzzle piece in my language proficiency that I couldn’t quite find. This was undoubtedly frustrating, and it demanded a substantial investment of time and effort to acclimate to this new linguistic environment.
Additionally, I confronted challenges related to technical skills. I came to the realization that the computer graphics (CG) knowledge I had gained during my undergraduate studies had become somewhat outdated. Many of my peers were already proficient in the use of multiple 3D software applications. Determined to bridge this gap, I pushed myself to catch up to their skill levels. However, I must admit that I encountered some setbacks during a collaborative project. This caused the project to fall slightly behind schedule and put added pressure on my team members. But as the saying goes, “There is no success without failure.” This experience spurred me on to dedicate significant time and effort to enhance my 3D skills, and today, I can proudly say that I am both flexible and proficient with multiple software programs.
Furthermore, I’ve recently taken on the role of a peer tutor to assist fellow students who, like me in the past, grapple with technical challenges. This journey has taught me that challenges are opportunities in disguise, and they have played an integral role in my growth and development.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As I’ve previously mentioned, my primary area of expertise centers around 3D modeling and look development. However, one achievement, in particular, stands out as a source of immense pride: my Japanese Tabletop BBQ project. This undertaking required me to meticulously craft all the materials and assets by hand. What makes this project even more gratifying is that it earned recognition and nominations in the Key Art and Environment Art categories at the esteemed Entelechy Art Exhibition 2023. This exhibition serves as a platform to showcase the very best student artworks, and being a part of it was truly an honor.
Reflecting on my educational journey, I’ve come to realize the paramount importance of working on projects that genuinely resonate with me. This personal connection fuels my passion and drives me to invest extensive time and effort without ever feeling overwhelmed. I have a profound appreciation for projects that demand an unwavering attention to detail. Before embarking on any CG work, I immerse myself in thorough research, sourcing a wealth of references. My ultimate aim in all my creative endeavors is to instill a sense of believability into my creations.
What truly sets me apart from others in my field is this unwavering dedication to both enjoyment and excellence. I believe that the fusion of these two elements is the key to producing exceptional work. After all, if you’re not genuinely enjoying what you do, what’s the point? This philosophy not only propels me forward but also distinguishes my approach to art and design.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
In retrospect, the COVID-19 pandemic has cast a significant shadow over nearly one-third of my foreign study journey. This experience, like many others, has had its pros and cons. However, it has imparted some invaluable lessons.
One of the most profound lessons I’ve gleaned from this pandemic is the importance of seizing opportunities to connect with my fellow classmates. With our classes being conducted via Zoom during the height of the pandemic, it became glaringly evident how limited our chances for communication had become. Gone were the casual conversations before and after class, the group projects where we’d brainstorm together, and the simple interactions that used to be a staple of in-person education. It was a stark contrast to the collaborative and social atmosphere I had expected from my foreign study journey.
As the COVID-19 situation began to show signs of improvement and we gradually returned to on-ground classes, a strange sensation washed over me. Every student I passed in the hallway seemed simultaneously familiar and distinct. They could have been one of my classmates during the pandemic, but the missed connections during that period left a lingering sense of regret.
It was then that I realized the importance of proactive social engagement. I made a conscious effort to strike up conversations with fellow students, whether it was about our coursework, shared interests, or simply a friendly chat about life. Our world is a shared experience, yet it is often fractured by individual perspectives. By engaging in meaningful, face-to-face communication, I discovered the tremendous value of exchanging ideas, experiences, and perspectives with others.
The COVID-19 pandemic, while challenging, has been a powerful reminder of the significance of human connections and the necessity of making the most of the opportunities for interaction when they arise. It has shown me that even in the face of adversity, the bonds we forge with our peers can be some of the most rewarding aspects of our educational journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://candicechou.com/
- Instagram: candice.chouvfx
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/hsinpingchou
Image Credits
Cover Photo by Hsieh, Hsing-Chia
