10 Questions with Mo Nan

Mo Nan, a native of China and a 2022 graduate of the prestigious Royal College of Art, is a London-based freelance digital artist. His unique artistic style, which seamlessly blends digital art and fashion design, sets him apart. He specializes in creating personal works and visual and film concept creations for brands, exploring the endless possibilities within these two realms. 

His recent accolades and exhibitions include being featured in Doozy Magazine issue 2 and SYSTEM Magazine issue 19; he took part in the UAAD Annual Edition & lmmersive Virtual Exhibition (2023), and his work was exhibited at The Florence Contemporary Gallery (2023), Mini Fringe Fest (2023, The Holy Art Gallery, UK London (2022), Anise Gallery, UK London (2022). In 2024, he also curated the branding design for the Chinese New Year Festival at Trafalgar Square (London, UK).

monan.cargo.site | @nanmooo_

ARTIST STATEMENT

Mo Nan is a digital artist based in London who explores the complex interactions between identity and social structures through a unique fusion of digital art and fashion design. Born in China, his primary medium is video art. 

His works delve deeply into the subtleties of identity, globalization, and cultural conflicts, reflecting on how technology reshapes social norms and triggers contemporary digital anxieties. Mo's visual works and digital shorts not only challenge traditional boundaries but also invite viewers to consider the ever-changing nature of human interactions in our interconnected world. By combining aesthetic innovation with critical social commentary, Mo Nan's art serves as a mirror reflecting the dynamic tensions and potential of our digital era.

INTERVIEW

Can you tell our readers about your early life in China and how it influenced your journey into the world of digital art?

From a very young age, I remember being deeply fascinated by computer-related technology. I used to enjoy exploring the hidden corners of the internet, urban legends, and various niche websites. As a Gen-Z who grew up during the rise of the internet, this was incredibly exciting and captivating. As I delved deeper into my art studies, I began focusing more on self-exploration, seeking topics and technologies that interested me. My natural passion for digital technology perhaps became the biggest driving force behind my journey into this artistic field.

You graduated from the Royal College of Art in 2022. Did your education there play a particular role in shaping your use of video art as your primary medium?

Yes, I studied Fashion MA at RCA, and during my time there, digital fashion was an emerging trend. Thanks to my tutor, who encouraged me to move beyond traditional fashion and follow my own interests, I chose digital as the starting point for my creations and incorporated many fashion-related elements into my work. This has greatly influenced the style of my current pieces.

Why do you choose video art as your primary medium, and what unique advantages does it offer in conveying your themes?

I'm always story-driven creator. I want to convey the world and storyline I imagine in my mind, and I found that video art is the most suitable medium for this. It has no budget constraints or physical limitations, allowing my imagination to run free.

Beyond video, do you incorporate other artistic elements into your work? If so, how do these elements enhance your message?

In addition to 3D modeling in my videos, I often use motion capture and 3D scanning of real objects, incorporating them into my work. 3D scanning provides a unique texture, and this creative process gives me a sense of breaking the screen's boundaries. In offline exhibitions, I usually place 3D-printed models around the work to create a stronger sense of immersion and interactivity. In the future, I might explore more installation pieces to complement my videos.

Can you describe your creative process when starting a new project? Is it research-driven, or do you find inspiration through experimentation?

My new projects usually begin with a strong desire to express an idea or something I want to say, often closely related to my personal experiences and the stage of life I'm in. This gives me the motivation to create. I then refine and visualize my ideas, ensuring originality and uniqueness in my work.

Many artists cite personal experiences as a source of inspiration. Do your own experiences with globalization or cultural conflict inform the narratives within your work?

As mentioned before, my work is closely tied to my personal experiences. 
In "The Edge of the Self," the film reflects the significant impact my move to the UK had on me, bringing awareness to issues of race and personal identity. The film has a strong sense of alienation and disconnection. 
"Final Flight" was created based on my experiences and feelings while applying for a visa. Starting from this point, I reflected on and questioned issues related to globalization and existing social systems.

How do you hope your art impacts viewers and contributes to the conversation about identity and social structures?

As a digital artist, my work explores identity and social structures. Through the fusion of digital art and fashion design, I aim to reflect on the fluidity and multiplicity of identity in our globalized society. I want my art to evoke introspection and dialogue about how identities are shaped by and shape our interactions with the digital and physical realms, uncovering how global dynamics influence personal and collective identities. Ultimately, I hope my art serves as a catalyst for conversation, reflecting not just what society is, but what it could become.

As a digital artist, how do you navigate the balance between artistic expression and the commercial aspects of the art world, such as online platforms or galleries?

I haven't considered mixing commercial elements into my art creation, but my works sometimes can help me to attract commercial film projects and collaborations. But online platforms are a development direction worth exploring. I hope my creations can be sold such as on an online platform, to better support my financial situation.

The digital landscape is constantly evolving. How do you see your art adapting or incorporating future technological advancements in the years to come?

Gaming is a great direction. The difficulty of creating digital short films is decreasing yearly, thanks to continuous development by software companies that provide significant technical support to digital creators. As the barrier lowers, we naturally have the energy to tackle more complex projects. In the future, I might transform my digital worlds into games to achieve better interaction and immersion with the audience.

Lastly, are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions you are particularly excited about that you can share with us?

I am continuing to work on my film "Final Flight," which should be completed soon. Although I don't frequently update my social media, I hope everyone stays excited!

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.