Tao Wang is an assistant professor in the Department of Dramatic Art within the UNC College of Arts and Sciences. He integrates digital media and AI technologies into theatrical design to create immersive and interactive experiences that push the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Q: How did you discover your specific field of study?

A: I was born in the rugged landscapes of Northwestern Xinjiang, China, where my early years were filled with the vivid colors and textures of nature. My father encouraged me to capture the world around me with chalk on any surface I could find, sparking a lifelong passion for drawing and painting. These early experiences shaped my artistic journey and led me to study at one of China’s most prestigious art schools, where I refined my skills.

Then, I was admitted to The Central Academy of Drama. Watching a play there, I realized that stage blocking and lighting could convey emotions more immediately and powerfully than oil painting. The lighting on the stage was not merely a visual tool but an emotional language. It could shape the atmosphere, direct focus, intensify dramatic tension, and instantly transport the audience into different emotional realms. This interplay of light and shadow profoundly moved me, making me realize that stage lighting design could create an immediate and intense emotional resonance.

Q: Academics are problem-solvers. Describe a research challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it.

A: Balancing the grandeur of large venue designs and cutting-edge technology with small productions. To overcome this, I had to innovate with the available resources, repurposing materials and employing creative problem-solving techniques to achieve a high-quality design within budget constraints. This taught me to be resourceful and adaptable, ensuring that the artistic integrity of my designs was maintained regardless of the budget. It also reinforced the importance of creativity and collaboration in overcoming challenges and delivering impactful designs in any setting.

Q: Describe your research in five words.

A: Innovative projections transforming live performances.

Q: Who or what inspires you? Why?

A: The dynamic interplay between light and shadow, the colors and textures of various landscapes, and the ever-changing patterns found in nature deeply influence my designs. Nature provides a rich palette of visual and emotional cues that can be translated into compelling stage environments, and its complexity and beauty offer endless inspiration for creating atmospheres that resonate with audiences on a profound level — from the subtle nuances in a sunrise to the dramatic tension of a storm to the tranquil stillness of a forest.

Q: If you could pursue any other career, what would it be and why?

A: I am truly passionate about lighting and projection design and cannot imagine pursuing another career. The unique blend of art and technology in this field fulfills both my creative and intellectual pursuits, allowing me to continuously explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Additionally, teaching the next generation to think about design is incredibly rewarding. Guiding students to develop their own creative processes and see their unique visions come to life is a privilege that enhances my own understanding and passion for the field.