Cover Atl-Aequus & the Five Phases. Architect of Meta-Gods, 2023 (Image: Chong Yan Chuah)
Atl-Aequus & the Five Phases. Architect of Meta-Gods, 2023 (Image: Chong Yan Chuah)
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Digital artist Chong Yan Chuah explores concepts such as techno-paganism to imagine worlds that are embedded in alternative cosmologies
Chong Yan Chuah is a Malaysian artist, architect and designer who works primarily in the mediums of digital imagery, game art and installation art.
“My work explores the entanglements between ancient myths and emerging technology, epitomised by the fusion of Chinese mythology with digital shamanism—a conceptual framework akin to techno-paganism. I am always fascinated by this convergence between traditional rituals, spirits, and cutting-edge technological advancements, which fosters spaces that resonate with our ancestral past and the digital zeitgeist of our present era,” Chong says.
As a child, Chong recalls his Hokkien grandfather stacking offerings upon carefully constructed altars to pay respects to the Jade Emperor, revered as the celestial ruler in Chinese mythology. According to the artist, his mind would often wander towards trying to envision the Emperor’s domain.
There will be Dr@g0ns in my Future Dreams, 2024
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Chong carried his love of creation into university, where he studied architecture at Newcastle University and the Architectural Association in London. “My architecture training renders world-building with a digital aura, adding elements such as science fiction and video games into my expressions. It wasn’t until I delved into architecture that I began constructing my creative universes,” Chong says.
Armed with a 3D skill set and methodology, Chong is confident that his architectural training unlocked his ability to simulate virtual worlds. “I still recall the exact moment I dove into digital software and got lost in its boundless possibilities. It felt like I was playing god, bending physics and gravity to my will. The sheer power and potential of this realm had me absolutely spellbound,” he shares. The 3D universe Chong has built is a “secure sanctuary” for the artist to unleash his imagination and explore his dreams. “The lack of physicality allows for the exploration of abstract concepts, the creation of new forms, and the development of innovative ideas. This freedom to redefine space and reality is a key element that has shaped and inspired my creative style.”
Digital artist, Chong Yan Chuah
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As an artist and designer, Chong’s work has been displayed and collected internationally. To date, he has exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts, the Royal Institute of British Architects and more. For the last two years, he also led Somnii, an art direction, digital imagination and research studio.
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“We’ve forged a number of collaborations with clients from various industries, ranging from creating bespoke digital artwork for corporate branding and advertising campaigns to architectural visualisation and animation projects. Each collaboration has been a unique opportunity to merge art with commerce and create something truly special that resonates with both our audience and the client’s brand identity, ultimately contributing to the evolution and definition of digital contemporary culture,” the visionary artist explains.
Atl-Aequus & the Five Phases. Architect of Meta-Gods, 2023
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Asked about his favourite projects to date, Chong admits that each venture holds a special place in his heart. “If I had to choose, I would say that some of my most significant projects have been those where I had the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and creatives. These collaborations not only pushed the boundaries of my artistic abilities but also allowed me to learn and grow in unexpected ways,” Chong says. He also values the projects that have had an impact on society, such as those raising awareness on environmental issues or advocating for social change. “Some of my favourite projects include 27 Years of Lazarian Delights, FAC3D, and Atl-Aequus & the Five Phases. Through the latter, a digital universe governed by the fivefold conceptual scheme of wuxing, I weave together elements of Chinese theory and futuristic aesthetics. The game’s parameters challenge the role of architects in a fully digital future.”
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As for Chong’s view on artificial intelligence (AI), the accomplished digital artist takes an optimistic view. “My work evolves with technologies. AI tools and algorithms have opened up new possibilities and streamlined certain aspects of the creative process, enabling me to experiment and iterate more efficiently. I also believe like any tool, the impact of AI ultimately depends on how we choose to employ it.”
TOWKAY’S HORIZON, 2023
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While Chong acknowledges there are challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, he views the integration of AI into the creative process as an opportunity for innovation rather than a cause for worry. He notes, “I am also aware of the ethical debates that AI technologies may raise, for instance, from ownership and algorithmic bias to the environmental consequences they may bring to the creative sectors. Like Stephanie Dinkins’ [effort to sound the alarm] on the uneven algorithm depictions of black women, to Joana Moll, whose work reminds us of the ecological costs of every Google search we make. All these factors lead me to reflect on the advancement of technology and efforts to imagine human futures beyond the linear and mechanical human-AI relations.”
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Images: Chong Yan Chuah
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