Danni Chang’s Futuristic Stage Design for “Come On! Commentator: Asian Games & E-Sports Season”

Thank you very much for the recognition from MUSE. I graduated from China’s top art institution, the Central Academy of Fine Arts. I am now the founder of Shuyuan Art Studio and work as a film art scene designer. My name is Danni Chang.

My main responsibilities include scene design and on-site construction. Through years of professional experience, I’ve accumulated a wealth of knowledge and resources, yet many unresolved challenges continue to push me to explore the boundaries of design.

I have always believed that design is a way of telling stories—it carries culture and conveys emotion. In particular, combining traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern technology to create immersive visual experiences has always been my passion.

The recognition from MUSE is a reflection of the results of my work. The MUSE Design Award not only honors the visual presentation of the work but also emphasizes the uniqueness of the design concept and its social impact.

It has made me more confident in believing that designs combining cultural heritage, technological innovation, and environmental awareness can have a positive impact on the global stage.

After winning the award, our team's work has gained more attention, which has led to opportunities for collaboration with international brands and film production companies. We have more opportunities to explore ways in which technology can be applied in scene design.

This award has also boosted our team's confidence and filled us with anticipation for future innovations.

Experimentation is an essential driving force for design progress. In one film scene project, we attempted to use AI technology to assist with scene layout design. By simulating the effects of different material combinations through algorithms, we were able to predict the final visual presentation during the design phase, which significantly shortened the production cycle.

Additionally, we used 3D printing and eco-friendly materials to ensure that the design was not only visually striking but also aligned with sustainable development goals.

Once, I watched a drone performance and saw them precisely change formations in the night sky. I realized that this technology could be applied to scene design. In one project, we used small drones to suspend lightweight props, creating a constantly changing, dynamic environment.

This method not only saved time on building and dismantling sets but also allowed for real-time adjustments to the scene layout based on the storyline. Furthermore, by programming the drones, we were able to simulate floating objects and futuristic environments, enhancing the immersive visual effect.

This cross-disciplinary inspiration has integrated technology into design, offering the audience a new kind of visual experience.

I hope people realize that design is not just about surface beauty; it’s a process of deep thinking. Good design requires a balance between visual experience, functional needs, and social responsibility.

I also hope people pay attention to the environmental philosophy behind design and understand how designers reduce environmental impact through material selection and process improvements.

To find a balance between meeting client needs and staying true to my design principles, I usually approach projects through "co-creation." Clients often focus on business goals and market feedback, while I emphasize artistic expression and social responsibility.

To reach a consensus, I present my design ideas visually—using concept animations or VR technology to allow clients to "step into" the scene. This way, they can intuitively experience how the design enhances storytelling or brand value.

At the same time, by emphasizing the long-term value these designs bring—rather than just the initial investment—I’m often able to earn the client’s trust and ultimately achieve a win-win between business and creativity.

One of the biggest challenges in completing the award-winning work was finding the balance between the virtual and the real. With the widespread use of XR and LED virtual production technologies, many scenes can now be created in digital spaces. However, relying entirely on virtual environments often lacks real texture and a true sense of space.

To address this, we adopted a “fusion of virtual and real” approach. This method not only reduced construction costs but also offered greater flexibility during filming. It challenged the team’s judgment in areas such as materials, lighting, and spatial layout—but the final result exceeded expectations, achieving a look that was both realistic and futuristic.

I like to temporarily step out of the design framework and explore fields unrelated to design. Whether it's walking in nature, visiting museums, or researching the latest technological developments, these experiences often bring fresh perspectives.

Additionally, communicating with creators from different fields often sparks new ideas and inspiration.

Many of my design inspirations come from my love for exploration and innovation. Technology provides me with endless possibilities, enabling me to constantly break the boundaries of traditional scene design. I believe that design is not just about creating aesthetic spaces; it's a journey that bridges the real and the future.

I’m always eager to find new ways to tell stories, create surprising visual experiences, and push the industry toward a more sustainable and intelligent direction.

I would tell young designers that success isn’t just about winning awards or gaining recognition. It’s more about whether you can continue innovating, solving problems, and driving the industry forward. Stay curious about the world and find your own design language.

Imitating and drawing inspiration in the beginning is normal, but eventually, you need to form your own style, giving your work distinctiveness. A unique perspective and values will make your designs stand out among others.

Also, keeping up with cutting-edge technology is essential and could spark unprecedented creativity. At the intersection of technology and design, you are not just a creator but also a catalyst for innovation.

I would love to collaborate with Mr. Nam June Paik. He is not only a pioneer in video art but also an explorer of the fusion between technology and art. His thoughts on media and technology are quite unconventional, and innovation is a necessary element in his works.

Many of his pieces break traditional boundaries of art. I am curious how he would apply contemporary cutting-edge technology or interactive techniques in his creations today. Such a collaboration would certainly spark more reflections on the relationship between art and technology, as well as between the virtual and the real.

I hope people would ask me: “In a rapidly changing technological era, what is the core value of a designer?”

My answer would be: I believe designers are not just users of technology—they are also transmitters of culture and drivers of innovation. In my work, I constantly think about how to turn technology into a storytelling language, while incorporating environmental values so that each piece is both artistic and socially responsible.

A designer’s value lies not only in presenting beauty, but also in guiding the audience to think, feel, and connect on a deeper level.