Artist in conversation: Kyla Gu
Inspired by the power of visual storytelling across various media platforms, Kyla's interest in graphic design, branding, and motion design grew as they explored ways to communicate narratives seamlessly through different channels.
Over time, they developed their style by experimenting with diverse design techniques, drawing influences from transmedia storytelling principles that emphasize coherence and continuity across mediums.
Frequently exploring themes related to interconnected storytelling, brand identity, and audience engagement, the artist is drawn to these topics as they allow for the creation of immersive experiences that resonate with viewers across multiple touchpoints. Emotion plays a fundamental role in her creative process, as they aim to evoke specific feelings through intentional use of colour, typography, and motion, fostering lasting impressions and engagement.
What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
I was initially inspired by the power of visual storytelling across various media platforms. My interest in graphic design, branding, and motion design grew as I explored ways to communicate narratives seamlessly through different channels. Over time, I developed my style by experimenting with diverse design techniques, drawing influences from transmedia storytelling principles that emphasize coherence and continuity across mediums.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
I often explore themes related to interconnected storytelling, brand identity, and audience engagement in my work. I’m drawn to these topics because they allow me to create immersive experiences that resonate with viewers across multiple touchpoints. By delving into transmedia concepts, I can craft narratives that unfold dynamically, enriching the brand experience through visual and interactive design.
Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you typically approach starting a new piece?
My creative process begins with a deep understanding of the projects’ story and objectives. I start by researching and conceptualizing ideas that can translate effectively into various design elements. Whether it’s a logo, motion graphics sequence, or interactive campaign, I strive to maintain consistency and adaptability across different media formats. Iterative refinement and collaboration play key roles in ensuring the final piece aligns with the overarching transmedia strategy.
4. Are there any particular artists or art movements that have significantly influenced your work?
I’m influenced by artists who excel in cross-disciplinary storytelling, such as those within the transmedia and interactive media spheres. Additionally, movements like Bauhaus and modern graphic design have shaped my approach to integrating form and function in branding and motion design projects.
5. Of all the projects you’ve worked on, do you have a favourite or one that holds special significance to you?
My personal projet deified - Although many people already know about nft, few participate and turst. I can’t dispel doubts at once. So my brand deified speculates a situation soon around 2032. Nft technologies have already into our everyday life. People are starting to believe in nft as faith and forming organisations deified, believing that nft will become a new rule for society, allowing people to do everything in the digital world. By using the brand image to create a cult that exists in the future, I am arousing curiosity and thus causing people to think about how far nft can go. What i have created is a sense of absurdity. My series of posters speculates on a new world that is emerging. More and more people are beginning to believe in the power of digital technology and are forming organizations that worship it as a new religion. They believe that digital technology will soon become the dominant force in society, allowing people to do everything in the digital world and even upload their entire existence into the metaverse. In this new world, animals, plants, and even human organs will be transformed into 2D data and exist solely as virtual entities. What I have created with my posters is a sense of absurdity, highlighting the strange and unsettling nature of this new reality.
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
Feedback is invaluable in refining my work and ensuring it resonates with its intended audience. I approach feedback with an open mind, considering both constructive criticism and personal intuition. By synthesizing external perspectives with my creative instincts, I strive to achieve designs that are both impactful and authentic to the brand’s vision.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
I stay motivated by seeking inspiration from interdisciplinary sources, including film, technology, and cultural trends. Collaborating with other creatives and exploring new design tools also helps me overcome creative blocks, allowing me to approach challenges with fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
Exhibiting my transmedia design works at The Holy Art Gallery would be an exciting opportunity to showcase the convergence of storytelling and design innovation. It aligns perfectly with my passion for pushing the boundaries of visual communication and engaging audiences in meaningful ways.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
My long-term goal is to continue evolving as a transmedia designer, pushing the boundaries of narrative-driven design and brand experiences. I aim to collaborate with diverse brands and creative teams, leveraging emerging technologies to craft immersive and memorable visual narratives that resonate globally.
What role does emotion play in your creative process, and and how do you aim to evoke specific feelings or reactions from those who view your artworks?
Emotion is fundamental to my creative process, as I believe design should evoke visceral responses and forge emotional connections with audiences. Through intentional use of color, typography, and motion, I aim to elicit specific feelings that align with the brand’s ethos, fostering lasting impressions and engagement.