07.11.2023

Maha Meets Up with: CGI Artist Kilian Vos

In an increasingly interconnected world where artistry unites with technology, Kilian Vos stands as a pioneering computer-generated imagery artist who creates visuals that push boundaries within todays digital realm. As we have recently collaborated on a 3D animated project alongside ASICS, we thought it’d be time to sit down with the visionary behind the hyper-digital yet human creations.  
 
In our conversation, we had the opportunity to explore her mission of uniting the digital and human aspects in computer-generated imagery, delve into her visions and uncover her future plans. 
Maha Amsterdam - Kilian VosMaha Amsterdam - Kilian Vos
I'm very optimistic about the future of CGI. The digital realm has opened up endless possibilities for artistic expression, and as this landscape continues to diversify and evolve, I see a future where the boundaries between the virtual and real worlds blur even further.
 

We’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with you on a 3D animated project with ASICS. For those who may not be familiar with you or your work yet, could you please introduce yourself and share a bit about how you got into the world of computer-graphics artistry?

Of course! As a former fashion and branding student, I was always fascinated by how tech can be used in more creative ways. During my studies, I learned how to approach this fascination in a conceptual way, but at the same time I felt something was missing in terms of tools to use this tech myself, and apply it in my own artistry. 

So, during COVID and the lockdowns, I found myself in a situation that enabled me to dive into CGI and develop technical skills. Being an autodidact, I essentially taught myself on the go, and while the software presented a steep learning curve at times, it felt amazing to be able to create something from scratch. The exciting part was that I only needed my computer and my imagination to bring my ideas to life, which to me felt super liberating.

 

In your work, you aim to bridge the gap between the digital and the human element in computer-generated imagery. Can you tell us more about your vision and what exactly inspired this approach? 

As I got a grip on the technical side of CGI, I also felt a disconnect with the prevalent aesthetics within the field. I noticed that in the world of computer-generated art, the focus on tech often overshadows the human element in how things are visualized and presented. This style of CGI, while impressive, often felt a bit cold and distant to me, sparking a change in my approach towards digital art.

My aim shifted to blending surrealism with relatability, crafting worlds that evoke wonder and genuine human emotions. I hope to show audiences that technology and CGI seamlessly integrate with our daily lives. To me, It’s all about the intimate connection between the digital and the tangible reality.

Maha Amsterdam - Kilian VosMaha Amsterdam - Kilian Vos
 

As a (digital) artist, you must be constantly filled with new ideas and inspirations. Could you share with us what the process of creating your art signifies to you and how it influences your lifestyle? 

I'm always on the lookout for inspiration. My creative process is like a treasure hunt in everyday life – I find ideas in mundane things like textures and objects around me, or unique lighting that catches my eye. So you could definitely say my artistry influences the way I perceive the world around me. 

As my work is all about surreal world building, I like to take certain elements from the ‘real world’ and put it in a new context. This involves merging the familiar with the unfamiliar, reshaping the ordinary into something new and exciting.

 

With more art creation happening digitally, can you share your thoughts on the future of computer-generated imagery and creative technology, and how do you envision your role in shaping it? 

I'm very optimistic about the future of CGI. The digital realm has opened up endless possibilities for artistic expression, and as this landscape continues to diversify and evolve, I see a future where the boundaries between the virtual and real worlds blur even further. 

As an artist, I hope to contribute to this crossover between the ‘digital’ and the ‘real'. I believe this interplay will become a powerful tool for authentic expression and meaningful storytelling. So I’m excited to see what lies ahead!

 

You’ve already achieved recognition through several publications. Are there any specific brands or collaborators you aspire to work with in the future?

 I’d love to collaborate with innovative brands that share my vision for bridging the gap between the digital and the real world. I’m currently also diving into the idea of bringing my digital objects and creations into the physical space. So, working together with experimental brands like Gentle Monster who are also into this idea of breaking boundaries between the virtual and the tangible sounds amazing

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Text: Flore de Man | Photographer:  Eva van Kesteren | Talent: Kilian Vos

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