Yixuan Zhang
Toronto,ON
Summary
Creative and technically skilled designer with a strong background in computational design, digital fabrication, and architectural visualization. Experienced in integrating advanced technologies, such as robotic control and digital modeling, with traditional design practices to create innovative solutions. Proven ability to work on diverse projects, from developing complex wooden structures and transforming architectural spaces into auditory experiences to collaborating with comic artists on intricate environment designs. Adept at utilizing various tools and techniques, including Rhino CAM, Mimic, and analog film, to enhance project outcomes. Passionate about merging artistic vision with technical precision to deliver impactful and meaningful design solutions.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Mass Timber Structure
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
05.2024 - 06.2024
- Explored the integration of computational design and digital fabrication for geometrically complex wooden structures
- Focused on the unique properties of wood, including its structural capabilities and role in storing embodied carbon, reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- Engaged in the Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) process through computational models for structural analysis, simulation, and robotic fabrication
- Embedded construction and assembly logic within both computational and physical models for mass timber construction
- Involved in the onsite construction process of mass timber structures
Digital Fabrication Assistant
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
Toronto, Ontario
09.2023 - 05.2024
- Assisted in Robotics Lab (Universal Robots & KUKA) for different fabrication projects, providing technical support for student projects and ensuring smooth operation
- Reviewed student project files, offering guidance on materials, time efficiency for CNC milling, and milling programming using the software Rhino CAM.
- Operated and maintained laser cutting machines, trained students on usage, safety protocols, and ensured regular maintenance.
- Provided comprehensive technical support for 3D printing (including Starch print), advising on materials, reducing printing time, adjusting files, and managing post-print processes
- Supported students in physical modeling, Rhino, and Grasshopper, including expertise in Generative Design, material selection, and cost-effective fabrication methods.
Prop Design Robotics Filming Workshop Participant
ROB|ARCH 2024 Robotic Fabrication in Architecture, Art, and Design
Toronto, Ontario
05.2024 - 05.2024
- Participated in an innovative workshop project, combining kitbashing with advanced robotic control to create a sci-fi space station
- Prop design and employed Mimic, a robot control plugin for Autodesk Maya, to animate a dynamic flight sequence
- Collaborate as team control both spaceship and camera movements, focusing on precise framing, lighting, and cinematic effects
- Applied keyframed animation in Maya to manipulate robots, cameras, and on-set assets, integrating creativity with technology
Undergraduate Design Thesis
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
09.2023 - 05.2024
- Explored the intersection of architecture and music by translating architectural components into auditory elements, metaphorizing humans as performers within spaces.
- Analyzed the parallels between architecture and music, acoustic in architecture, focusing on rhythm, space, form, and emotion. Historical research done within these topics.
- Used cameras to film human interactions and the transformation of interior spaces over time.
- Explore translated music genres into geometric forms for potential architectural spaces, emphasizing the integration of artistic design with building science.
- Aimed to apply this method to future interdisciplinary projects, creating architectural designs informed by music and human experience.
Film "Berlin, Berliner"
_
Berlin, Germany
07.2023 - 08.2023
- Created an analog film project capturing the visual and emotional experience of a temporary "Berliner"
- Gained hands-on experience with analog film cameras, film development, and physical editing techniques.
- Explored the intersection of place and identity, using the film development process to reflect the transient nature of life in Berlin
- Documented fleeting moments that encapsulate the essence of the city from an outsider's perspective
Wieringa Wall Project Fabricator
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture
Toronto, Ontario
06.2023 - 07.2023
- Set up jigs, fixtures or other holding devices according to blueprint specifications.
- Operated laser cutting machines and CNC milling to fabricate and assemble structural components.
- Performed layout, fitting, and gluing of machine-fabricated members to specified tolerances as team.
Corner Commons Design and Build
Jane/Finch Community and Family Centre
Toronto, Ontario
05.2022 - 06.2022
- The project received the 2022 RAIC National Urban Design Award of Excellence.
- Assisting head designers from Perkins & Will, as well as civil engineers, to design and build a temporary public gathering space at Jane Finch Mall.
- Created flexible, shaded spaces for community-led performances and activities, enhancing public engagement.
Comic Environment Design
"WonderLove" Comic
06.2021 - 09.2021
- Collaborated with a comic artist to develop environment designs for WonderLove, blending Victorian, futurist, Roman, and ancient architectural influences.
- Initiated the design process through discussions with the artist, creating a lookbook, conducting reference research, and brainstorming ideas.
- Created quick sketches to communicate style, color, and atmosphere, which were shared with the artist for feedback and refinement.
- Developed detailed atmosphere drawings for scenes, allowing the comic artist to incorporate them into the background while integrating their own art style.
Marketing Graphic Designer
EXCITE conference
Toronto, Ontario
08.2020 - 01.2021
- Created visual designs for websites, logos, infographics, advertisements, brochures, and other collateral for Canada's Largest Student-Run Virtual Conference, EXCITE.
- Collaborated with the marketing team to ensure brand consistency across all projects.
- Produced high-quality digital art assets for use in a variety of media formats.
Education
Honours Bachelor of Arts - Specialist in Technology of Architecture, Landscap
University of Toronto
Toronto, ON01-2024
Skills
3D modeling: Rhino / Blender / Grasshopper
Animation: Blender/ Maya
Adobe:Photoshop/Indesign/Illustrator/Premier/AfterEffect/Lightroom/Audition
Sketching & art: Freehand/Digital
Machines: Woodworking trained/ 3d printing/ laser cutting/ CNC Milling/ Robotics
Programming: Python
Timeline
Mass Timber Structure
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
05.2024 - 06.2024
Prop Design Robotics Filming Workshop Participant
ROB|ARCH 2024 Robotic Fabrication in Architecture, Art, and Design
05.2024 - 05.2024
Digital Fabrication Assistant
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
09.2023 - 05.2024
Undergraduate Design Thesis
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
09.2023 - 05.2024
Film "Berlin, Berliner"
_
07.2023 - 08.2023
Wieringa Wall Project Fabricator
University of Toronto, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture
06.2023 - 07.2023
Corner Commons Design and Build
Jane/Finch Community and Family Centre
05.2022 - 06.2022
Comic Environment Design
"WonderLove" Comic
06.2021 - 09.2021
Marketing Graphic Designer
EXCITE conference
08.2020 - 01.2021
Honours Bachelor of Arts - Specialist in Technology of Architecture, Landscap
University of Toronto
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