10 Questions with Hanyu Mu

Hanyu Mu (穆晗语) is a talented artist and animator hailing from Beijing, China, and currently residing in Atlanta. With a diverse range of skills, Hanyu excels in various artistic mediums, including illustration, traditional painting, 2D animation, and storyboarding. Through her artistry, she masterfully constructs immersive narratives, channeling her emotions and unrestrained imagination. By harnessing the power of digital tools, Hanyu pushes the boundaries of her creative process, resulting in captivating visuals that stir deep emotions within the viewer. Her creations focus on pure self-expression and visual storytelling, capturing fleeting moments of profound sentiment and beckoning audiences to embark on a journey of imagination alongside her.

www.hanyumu.com | @hany_umu

ARTIST STATEMENT

Hanyu Mu's artistic works are marked by their narrative essence, as she endeavors to construct her own pictorial realm through her expressive desires and mastery of visual language. By capturing and conveying moments of emotion, she beckons viewers into her artistic universe, one that is often teeming with elements of her vivid imagination. Hanyu's creations offer glimpses into her unique perspective and serve as a means to share her thoughts, feelings, and imaginative interpretations of the world around her.

In her creative process, Hanyu leverages digital mediums to enhance her artwork. This technological platform grants her the flexibility and freedom to experiment with various techniques and styles, pushing the boundaries of her artistic expression.

With her diverse skill set, passion for storytelling, and ability to harness the power of digital tools, Hanyu Mu continues to captivate audiences with visually striking and emotionally resonant artworks. Her talent and dedication to her craft position her as an exciting and promising figure in the realms of illustration and animation.

Hanyu Mu's artistic pursuits are guided by a deep appreciation for narratives and an unwavering aspiration to construct unique pictorial realms. With an exceptional command of visual language and an insatiable drive for expressive exploration, Hanyu aims to convey moments of profound emotion and unleash the boundless expanse of her imagination.

The artwork "Good Morning" finds its roots in Hanyu's childhood, capturing the fear and resistance often experienced by children on their way to school. Through the skillful use of elevated perspectives and detailed close-ups, Hanyu deliberately amplifies the child's sense of smallness, intensifying the emotional impact of the piece. The realistic drawing style chosen harmonizes with the simplicity of the characters, while the meticulous attention given to the background elements preserves the overall integrity of the composition. By ensuring that every aspect of the artwork contributes to the visual narrative, Hanyu creates a comprehensive and immersive storytelling experience.

Informed by personal experiences, the narrative within the artwork resonates with a profound sense of emotional expression. By weaving together her memories and emotions with the universal theme of childhood fears, Hanyu endeavors to create artwork that strikes a chord with viewers. Through evoking nostalgia, prompting introspection, and fostering a deeper understanding of the child's perspective, Hanyu invites viewers to reflect on their own journey of growth and the intricate complexities of childhood.

Good Morning, Digital, 20x10 in, 2023 © Hanyu Mu

INTERVIEW

First of all, introduce yourself to our readers. What is your artistic background, and how did you start experimenting with images?

My journey into the world of art began during my early childhood, around the age of three, when I discovered the joy of doodling on walls. Encouraged and supported by my parents, they recognized my potential and nurtured my artistic interests. While they hoped for my passion to become a fulfilling profession, they also exposed me to other areas of interest, such as music and electronics. However, as I progressed through high school, I realized that painting brought me the greatest joy and sense of accomplishment.
Taking my desires seriously, my parents asked me if I wanted to pursue art as a career. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly said yes, leading them to enroll me in an art high school where I could receive professional art education. It felt as though this path was destined for me right from the beginning. Throughout my growth, I never ceased drawing, which ultimately led me to choose animation as my major in college.
During my junior year, a pivotal moment occurred that solidified my identity as an animation practitioner and creator. I was tasked with completing a significant project - a complete animated short film. The process proved to be both exhausting and challenging, especially as a beginner trying to manage my time effectively. There were moments when I engaged in unnecessary work, but the sheer excitement and nervousness I experienced during the final screening made it all worthwhile.
That particular experience ignited a fervent passion for creation within me and set me on the path of focusing on design and specializing in illustration. My aspiration is to infuse aesthetic elements into animation and explore the boundless realm of visual storytelling.

Why are you an artist, and when did you first become one?

Art is the very essence of who I am—an intrinsic part of my being. It serves as a profound means of self-expression, enabling me to convey my thoughts, emotions, and perspectives to the world. Through the act of creation, I immerse myself in the depths of my imagination, giving life to the stories and images that reside within me. Art allows me to capture fleeting moments of profound emotion, spark introspection, and evoke powerful sentiments in others. It transcends language barriers, forging connections between people at a profound level.
From a young age, painting became my refuge, bringing me joy and solace. It was a realm where I felt truly unique and liberated, where my thoughts and ideas could take shape and be shared. While I may not have fully comprehended the concept of being an artist at that tender age, the act of creating art became an integral part of my identity. As I honed my skills along the artistic path, I gradually embraced the role of a creator. It was not an abrupt transformation but rather an ongoing process of growth and self-realization.
With every stroke of the brush, each canvas I bring to life, every exhibition I participate in, and every connection I forge with fellow artists and enthusiasts, my passion and dedication to this path are reaffirmed. While the exact moment of becoming an artist may be elusive, I consider my decision to pursue art as a profession and my unwavering commitment to the exploration of artistic expression as significant milestones in my personal journey.

110101101, Digital, 8.5x11 in, 2023 © Hanyu Mu

How would you define yourself as an artist today?

I am an artist at heart, defining myself as a passionate painter and illustrator driven by a deep love for storytelling and visual expression. Within my art, I find a reflection of my inner world, a conduit through which I explore and convey emotions, narratives, and the inherent beauty that surrounds us. I see myself as a storyteller, utilizing various artistic mediums such as painting, illustration, and digital tools to intricately weave narratives and create immersive visual experiences.
Whether it be a single striking image or a series of illustrations, my ultimate goal is to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and engage viewers in a profound dialogue with my art. I embrace the boundless power of imagination and endeavor to craft unique realms of imagery that beckon the audience to embark on journeys of imagination and introspection.
With each stroke of the brush or carefully crafted line, my intention is to capture the essence of emotions, encapsulate the intricacies of human experiences, and ignite curiosity and sensitivity within those who encounter my art. While my art style and techniques may naturally evolve over time, my unwavering commitment lies in the belief that storytelling and the exploration of emotions hold an enduring significance.
Above all, my aspiration is to create art that possesses both visual impact and emotional resonance, transcending cultural boundaries and resonating with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through my art, I seek to forge connections and leave an indelible impression, inviting viewers to discover their own personal connections and interpretations within the narratives I depict.

Your work is an interesting blend of different elements, and you work across different media. Can you tell us about the process of creating your work? How do you go from the first idea to the final outcome?

I find solace in the act of reminiscing about moments in life, drawing inspiration from personal experiences, emotions, observations, and even external sources like literature, music, nature, or scents. This reflective process fuels my creativity and ignites a stream of ideas that I eagerly explore. I begin by brainstorming and sketching rough concepts, delving into the realm of possibilities. As my vision takes shape, I delve into research, seeking references that resonate with the theme at hand. This allows me to grasp visual elements, intricate details, and backgrounds that enhance the storytelling aspect of my work.
Once armed with a clearer understanding of my concept, I move on to creating thumbnails, experimenting with diverse compositions and arrangements. This stage grants me the freedom to explore various perspectives, determine focal points, and establish a harmonious visual structure. My focus lies in capturing the essence of my concept and ensuring a balanced composition. I particularly enjoy exploring the interplay of light and shadow, recognizing their significance in memories, often surpassing intricate details.
To bring my artistic vision to life, I carefully select the appropriate media and techniques based on the desired outcome and the nature of the artwork. This might involve traditional mediums like watercolors, acrylics, or ink, or digital tools that offer unique effects and brushstrokes beyond the reach of traditional materials. Each medium possesses its own strengths and distinctive qualities, which I consider to effectively convey the desired mood and information. This includes layering colors, applying textures, refining details, and skillfully orchestrating the interaction of various visual elements.
Throughout the creative process, I embrace the concept of iteration, allowing my work to evolve organically as I respond to emerging compositions. It is a dynamic and fluid journey characterized by experimentation, exploration, and refinement. I continuously strive to transform my initial ideas into tangible realities that effectively communicate my artistic vision.
In essence, the creation process of my artwork encompasses a delicate balance between meticulous planning and surrendering to the flow of creativity. It is an exploratory and immersive experience, one where I traverse the realms of possibility, weaving together the threads of imagination and reality to produce meaningful and captivating visual narratives.

What themes do you pursue with your work?

The complexity of human emotions and the vast inner landscapes that shape our experiences fascinate me. It is within these realms that I find inspiration to explore themes of introspection, vulnerability, and the myriad of emotions we encounter throughout our lives. Through my artwork, I embark on a journey into the depths of the human psyche, seeking to convey these intricate feelings in a visual manner. Questions of identity and self-discovery also ignite my curiosity, and I relish in unraveling the intricacies of personal narratives and the diverse range of human experiences. Through my creations, I strive to capture individuality, celebrate diversity, and encourage self-expression, all while inviting viewers to reflect upon their own identity and unique journey.
The realm of dreams and imagination holds a special place in my artistic expression. It is a realm where I freely incorporate elements of fantasy, surrealism, and whimsy, inviting viewers to escape reality and engage in the narratives woven by their own imaginations. This theme allows me to explore the boundless possibilities of the human mind, igniting a sense of curiosity and wonders within both myself and those who encounter my art.
Furthermore, storytelling is a vital component of my artistic practice. Whether through visual storytelling, symbolic imagery, or capturing fleeting moments frozen in time, I am driven to create art that captivates viewers, evokes emotions, and encourages them to weave their own narratives within the images. These themes provide a framework for my artistic exploration, serving as a foundation upon which I build my creations. However, I also find immense joy in embracing new concepts and ideas that challenge me as an artist. By continuously expanding my perspective and exploring different subjects, I aim to create art that resonates with viewers on a deeply personal and emotional level, fostering a sense of connection, introspection, and shared human experiences.
Ultimately, my art is an ever-evolving exploration of the human condition, a vessel through which I communicate the complexities of our emotions, the beauty of our diversity, and the transformative power of self-expression. It is my sincere hope that through my artistic endeavors, I can touch hearts, inspire reflection, and facilitate a profound connection between the viewer and the artwork.

You predominantly work with illustration. What's the essential element in your art?

Emotion takes center stage in my illustrations, serving as the driving force behind my creative process. It is the vital element I continuously strive to capture and convey in my artwork. Through meticulous attention to composition, color, lighting, and the expressions of the characters or subjects I depict, I seek to infuse each piece with a profound sense of emotion, resonating deeply with the viewers and eliciting a visceral response. Whether it be joy, melancholy, wonder, or any other nuanced feeling, my aim is to evoke a genuine emotional reaction and leave a lasting impression.
In addition to evoking emotions, storytelling plays an integral role in my illustrations. I firmly believe that a compelling narrative enhances the emotional impact of the artwork. By weaving visual narratives or providing subtle hints of a story within the illustration, I invite viewers to engage with the artwork on a deeper level. This approach sparks their imagination, allowing them to construct their own interpretations, connections, and personal narratives, thereby fostering a richer and more meaningful experience.
Craftsmanship and attention to detail hold great importance in my artistic practice. I believe that the meticulous rendering of textures, the delicate brushwork, or the intricate linework contribute to the overall aesthetic and elevate the emotional resonance of the artwork. Each stroke and every minute detail serve as a means to further amplify the intended emotional response.
Ultimately, the core essence of my art lies in its ability to evoke emotions, forging a profound connection with viewers on a personal level. I aspire to create illustrations that serve as gateways to immersive visual and emotional journeys. Through careful composition, thoughtful storytelling, and meticulous craftsmanship, I strive to communicate the depths of human experience and touch the hearts of those who encounter my work.

You seem to have very distinctive styles based on the different stories. How do you come up with a specific style? What elements do you take into consideration, and how do they influence your work?

Developing a distinctive style for my illustrations is a multifaceted and dynamic process that encompasses various factors. One of the key considerations is the narrative or concept I am working on, as it guides the choice of style that best complements and enhances the story being told. Whimsical or intense themes may call for different visual approaches, prompting me to adapt my style accordingly.
The emotional tone I seek to convey in my illustrations also plays a significant role in shaping the chosen style. For instance, if I aim to evoke a sense of nostalgia or tranquility, I may lean towards softer and more painterly aesthetics. On the other hand, if I intend to convey tension or excitement, a bolder and more graphic composition may be fitting. The emotional impact I want to achieve influences the visual elements of my illustrations, including the use of color, composition, and linework.
Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists and art movements further enriches the development of my personal style. I find inspiration in traditional Eastern art forms, contemporary illustrators, and everything in between. By studying the works of others, I gain insight into various techniques, approaches, and artistic philosophies, which inform and shape my own style. This process of exploration allows me to discover new possibilities and continuously refine my artistic expression.
Experimentation and exploration are fundamental aspects of developing my style. I embrace the freedom to try new techniques, mediums, and approaches. By pushing the boundaries of my creativity, I constantly challenge myself to evolve and grow as an artist. It is through this process of trial and error that I refine my style and uncover new avenues for artistic expression.
While external influences and artistic movements are significant, my intuition and personal expression remain pivotal in shaping my artistic style. These elements allow me to infuse my illustrations with a unique and cohesive visual language, creating a distinct artistic identity that reflects my inner voice and creative vision.
By considering all these factors, I strive to create illustrations that are visually captivating, emotionally engaging, and a true reflection of my artistic identity. Each artwork becomes an opportunity to explore, refine, and showcase my evolving style, ultimately allowing me to connect with viewers and convey narratives in a visually compelling and meaningful way.

Night on the Galactic Railroad, Digital, 20x10 in, 2022 © Hanyu Mu

You work digitally. What technologies do you use? And what do you think of the recent use of AI-generated images?

As a digital artist, I rely on a variety of technologies to bring my artwork to life. Key tools and techniques in my artistic process include software applications like Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, and others. These powerful programs provide me with a wide array of brushes, color palettes, and editing tools that enable me to create and manipulate digital art pieces with precision and flexibility.
In recent times, the emergence of AI-generated images has added a fascinating dimension to the intersection of art and technology. These images are created using machine learning algorithms that have been trained on extensive datasets of existing artwork, photographs, or visual references. While AI-generated images can yield impressive results, there are ongoing discussions and debates surrounding their authenticity and originality.
From my perspective, AI-generated images can be regarded as valuable tools or resources for artists. They have the potential to inspire new ideas, serve as references for compositions or styles, and even be incorporated as elements within an artist's work. However, it is crucial to maintain a balanced approach and ensure that AI-generated images are used in a manner that upholds artistic integrity and creativity.
Art is deeply rooted in human expression, emotions, and personal experiences. While AI can mimic certain artistic styles or techniques, it may lack the human touch, intentionality, and conceptual depth that arise from an artist's unique perspective and creative process. Therefore, I believe that the role of AI-generated images should be seen as a complementary tool that supports and enhances the artistic process rather than a replacement for human creativity and expression.
It is essential for artists to retain their individuality and infuse their work with their own perspectives and experiences, which are innately human. While AI-generated images can provide a starting point or assist in certain aspects of the creative process, they should not overshadow the artist's personal touch and vision.
The use of AI-generated images in the art world is an evolving and complex topic. Artists will continue to explore and embrace these technological advancements while grappling with the balance between incorporating AI-generated elements and maintaining the essence of human artistic expression. The ongoing dialogue surrounding this intersection will undoubtedly shape the future of art and technology, and it will be fascinating to witness how artists navigate and harness these advancements in their creative journeys.

On a broader level, what do you think about the art community? Do you feel you have found your place there?

I view the art community with a sense of curiosity and a desire for exploration. It is a dynamic and diverse space where artists from various backgrounds, styles, and perspectives come together to share their work, engage in dialogue, and inspire one another. The art community represents a vibrant ecosystem of creativity and expression.
Navigating the art community can be both exciting and challenging. As an artist, I am in the process of discovering my unique voice, style, and artistic identity. I find inspiration from established artists while also connecting with fellow emerging artists. Engaging with the community allows me to learn, grow, and share my work. The art community offers a wealth of resources, such as art galleries, exhibitions, online platforms, and artist communities that provide valuable exposure and networking opportunities.
However, the art community can also be competitive and intimidating, particularly when trying to establish oneself and gain recognition. Yet, despite these challenges, I am committed to continuous growth, learning, and skill development. Seeking feedback, engaging in collaborations, and participating in art-related events are ways in which I actively expand my knowledge and network. It is through these experiences and interactions that I hope to find my place and build meaningful connections within the art community.
I believe that the art community is a supportive and inspiring environment where artists can learn from one another, push their boundaries, and evolve creatively. It is a space that encourages experimentation, embraces diverse perspectives, and celebrates artistic expression. While it may take time to establish oneself and navigate the complexities of the art world, I remain optimistic about the opportunities and connections that lie ahead. I am eager to continue my journey as an emerging artist within this vibrant community, open to the possibilities and growth that await me.

Finally, any projects you are looking forward to for this year?

As an artist, I am constantly brimming with excitement when it comes to new projects and opportunities to exhibit my work. Currently, I am actively seeking collaborations, exhibitions, and commissions that can help me further develop and share my art with a wider audience. In addition to these external opportunities, I also have a few personal expression projects in the pipeline.
These personal projects serve as a space where I can draw inspiration from the vast array of life's flashes and anecdotes. Every moment, and every memory, holds the potential to spark my creativity and ignite my artistic process. I find immense value in immersing myself in these experiences, allowing them to influence and shape my artistic creations. By doing so, I hope to create artwork that is not only visually captivating but also carries a deep sense of meaning and evokes emotional responses from both myself and viewers.
I believe in taking the time to explore and delve into these personal expressions, allowing them to unfold organically. This process involves reflecting on the profound impact of memories, emotions, and life's narratives and translating them into visual representations. It is through this intentional approach that I can create artwork that resonates on a profound level and establishes connections with those who engage with it.

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.

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