JIAHAN ZHANG
What do you see as your biggest strength in VMA?
My strengths in visual merchandising arts lie in my exceptional styling abilities and a passion for photography that makes shooting assignments a joy. As a visual merchandiser, I have honed my skills in creating visually stunning displays that capture the essence of a brand and engage customers. My expertise in styling enables me to create dynamic compositions that draw the eye and effectively communicate the brand's message. Whether it is developing a concept for a window display or creating a product presentation, I excel at bringing a creative vision to life. In addition to my skills in styling, I also possess a natural talent and passion for photography. Shooting assignments that allow me to combine my visual merchandising expertise with my love for photography bring me great joy. I relish the opportunity to capture the essence of a brand or product through my lens, and to use my skills in composition and lighting to create images that tell a compelling story.
What is one thing you achieved in the last 2 school years that you will remember for the rest of your life?
The past two years of learning the art of visual merchandising have been an incredible journey for me. What I remember most from this experience is the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something from scratch. Whether it was designing and executing a window display, developing a detailed Sketchup, or orchestrating a fashion shoot, the feeling of seeing my ideas come to life was incredibly rewarding. At the beginning of my journey in visual merchandising, I found some of these tasks to be quite daunting. But as I gained experience and confidence, I found that I was able to push past these initial challenges and produce work that I was proud of. What I learned throughout this process is that the key to success in visual merchandising is a combination of creativity, technical skill, and perseverance. By continuously challenging myself to take on new projects and refine my skills, I have been able to create work that not only meets the needs of my clients but also reflects my unique perspective and creativity. Overall, the past two years have been a transformative experience for me in the field of visual merchandising. I am grateful for the challenges and opportunities that I have encountered and look forward to continuing to learn, grow, and create in this exciting field.
What is one way you surprised yourself this year?
this year has been a year of growth and discovery for me in the field of visual merchandising, and what surprised me most was my ability to pull off a successful fashion shoot entirely on my own. From conceptualizing the theme and inspiration board to contacting agencies to find models, photographers, and other essential team members, I was able to handle all aspects of the shoot with confidence and ease. It was an exhilarating experience to see my vision come to life and produce such great results. I learned that the key to success in visual merchandising is not only having a strong creative vision but also the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with others. Overall, this experience has been incredibly empowering, and I look forward to taking on more projects and challenges in the future. I am excited to see where my journey in the world of visual merchandising will take me next.
What was a hard lesson you learned through your time in VMA?
As I reflect on the past two years of learning visual merchandising, one thing that has consistently challenged me is the need for handmade parts. I have always struggled with this aspect, as I am not particularly skilled in handcrafting. However, I have learned that practice and patience are key to developing these skills and improving as a visual merchandiser.
Is there a specific job you hope to get after graduation?
As I near the end of my studies in visual merchandising art, I have developed a strong passion for the fields of art direction and styling. The ability to conceptualize and bring creative ideas to life through visual storytelling is something that truly excites me. I am eager to work with clients and collaborate with teams to create compelling visuals that engage and inspire. With my skills and knowledge in visual merchandising, I am confident that I will be able to pursue a successful career in art direction or styling, and I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
TWIN FLAME
As an art director and stylist for the "Twin Flame" fashion shoot, my vision was to capture the undeniable interdependence of two souls that are meant to be together. The twin flame concept represents the idea of two people who are connected on a deeper level, sharing a bond that transcends time and space. Through careful attention to detail in styling and composition, I aimed to evoke a sense of balance and harmony between the two models, highlighting the complementarity of their unique personalities and energies. The use of bold colors and textures further emphasized the intensity of their connection, while subtle nuances in the wardrobe and accessories communicated a shared language and understanding. Ultimately, my goal was to create a visual story that celebrates the power of love and the beauty of two souls united as one. I am proud to have been a part of this project and hope that the images inspire others to embrace the power of true connection and interdependence in their own lives.
2022 FALL
Aesop Product Styling
As a stylist for the Aesop product styling, my vision was to showcase the brand's commitment to natural ingredients and sustainability through the use of Monstera deliciosa and wood as props. By selecting Monstera deliciosa and wood as the main elements for the product presentation, I aimed to communicate a sense of harmony between the product and nature. The lush and vibrant foliage of the Monstera deliciosa complemented the Aesop product, creating a cohesive and visually appealing composition. Incorporating natural elements like Monstera deliciosa also aligned with the brand's values of using sustainably sourced ingredients and reducing their environmental impact. By presenting the products with these elements, I hoped to inspire viewers to make more conscious choices in their purchasing habits and consider the impact of the products they use.
2022 WINTER
Add me-Music Video
As the costume designer for a short music film collaboration with the Toronto Film School, my goal was to bring the characters to life by creating costumes that reflected the hip-hop style of the song. Through careful attention to detail and collaboration with the director and cast, I designed costumes that not only fit the characters' personalities but also highlighted their contrasts. The image of the host and the priest in the story were particularly important in showcasing this contrast, with their costumes being designed to emphasize their differences. Overall, my focus was on ensuring that the costumes were not only visually appealing but also helped to enhance the story and the characters' performances. It was an honor to be a part of this project, and I am proud to have contributed to the visual storytelling of the film.
2023 SPRING
Add me-Music Video
As the costume designer for a short music film collaboration with the Toronto Film School, my goal was to bring the characters to life by creating costumes that reflected the hip-hop style of the song. Through careful attention to detail and collaboration with the director and cast, I designed costumes that not only fit the characters' personalities but also highlighted their contrasts. The image of the host and the priest in the story were particularly important in showcasing this contrast, with their costumes being designed to emphasize their differences. Overall, my focus was on ensuring that the costumes were not only visually appealing but also helped to enhance the story and the characters' performances. It was an honor to be a part of this project, and I am proud to have contributed to the visual storytelling of the film.
2023 SPRING
Add me-Music Video
As the costume designer for a short music film collaboration with the Toronto Film School, my goal was to bring the characters to life by creating costumes that reflected the hip-hop style of the song. Through careful attention to detail and collaboration with the director and cast, I designed costumes that not only fit the characters' personalities but also highlighted their contrasts. The image of the host and the priest in the story were particularly important in showcasing this contrast, with their costumes being designed to emphasize their differences. Overall, my focus was on ensuring that the costumes were not only visually appealing but also helped to enhance the story and the characters' performances. It was an honor to be a part of this project, and I am proud to have contributed to the visual storytelling of the film.
2023 SPRING
Add me-Music Video
As the costume designer for a short music film collaboration with the Toronto Film School, my goal was to bring the characters to life by creating costumes that reflected the hip-hop style of the song. Through careful attention to detail and collaboration with the director and cast, I designed costumes that not only fit the characters' personalities but also highlighted their contrasts. The image of the host and the priest in the story were particularly important in showcasing this contrast, with their costumes being designed to emphasize their differences. Overall, my focus was on ensuring that the costumes were not only visually appealing but also helped to enhance the story and the characters' performances. It was an honor to be a part of this project, and I am proud to have contributed to the visual storytelling of the film.
2023 SPRING
Add me-Music Video
As the costume designer for a short music film collaboration with the Toronto Film School, my goal was to bring the characters to life by creating costumes that reflected the hip-hop style of the song. Through careful attention to detail and collaboration with the director and cast, I designed costumes that not only fit the characters' personalities but also highlighted their contrasts. The image of the host and the priest in the story were particularly important in showcasing this contrast, with their costumes being designed to emphasize their differences. Overall, my focus was on ensuring that the costumes were not only visually appealing but also helped to enhance the story and the characters' performances. It was an honor to be a part of this project, and I am proud to have contributed to the visual storytelling of the film.
2023 SPRING
TOMORROWLAND Branding concept
As the brand designer for Tomorrowland, my vision was to create a futuristic clothing store that combines cutting-edge smart technology with sleek and modern design. Through innovative remote fitting and one-click shopping features, Tomorrowland brings a new level of convenience and accessibility to the world of fashion. By utilizing modern smart technology, customers can experience the store from anywhere in the world and enjoy a seamless and personalized shopping experience. In designing the brand identity for Tomorrowland, I sought to reflect the store's innovative and futuristic spirit through a sleek and modern visual aesthetic. The brand's color palette, typography, and overall design convey a sense of innovation and technological sophistication, while still feeling approachable and user-friendly. Ultimately, my goal as the brand designer for Tomorrowland was to create a brand identity that not only resonates with the store's target audience but also helps to elevate the shopping experience to a new level.
2022 SPRING
TOMORROWLAND Branding concept
As the brand designer for Tomorrowland, my vision was to create a futuristic clothing store that combines cutting-edge smart technology with sleek and modern design. Through innovative remote fitting and one-click shopping features, Tomorrowland brings a new level of convenience and accessibility to the world of fashion. By utilizing modern smart technology, customers can experience the store from anywhere in the world and enjoy a seamless and personalized shopping experience. In designing the brand identity for Tomorrowland, I sought to reflect the store's innovative and futuristic spirit through a sleek and modern visual aesthetic. The brand's color palette, typography, and overall design convey a sense of innovation and technological sophistication, while still feeling approachable and user-friendly. Ultimately, my goal as the brand designer for Tomorrowland was to create a brand identity that not only resonates with the store's target audience but also helps to elevate the shopping experience to a new level.
2022 SPRING
TOMORROWLAND Branding concept
As the brand designer for Tomorrowland, my vision was to create a futuristic clothing store that combines cutting-edge smart technology with sleek and modern design. Through innovative remote fitting and one-click shopping features, Tomorrowland brings a new level of convenience and accessibility to the world of fashion. By utilizing modern smart technology, customers can experience the store from anywhere in the world and enjoy a seamless and personalized shopping experience. In designing the brand identity for Tomorrowland, I sought to reflect the store's innovative and futuristic spirit through a sleek and modern visual aesthetic. The brand's color palette, typography, and overall design convey a sense of innovation and technological sophistication, while still feeling approachable and user-friendly. Ultimately, my goal as the brand designer for Tomorrowland was to create a brand identity that not only resonates with the store's target audience but also helps to elevate the shopping experience to a new level.
2022 SPRING
TOMORROWLAND Branding concept
As the brand designer for Tomorrowland, my vision was to create a futuristic clothing store that combines cutting-edge smart technology with sleek and modern design. Through innovative remote fitting and one-click shopping features, Tomorrowland brings a new level of convenience and accessibility to the world of fashion. By utilizing modern smart technology, customers can experience the store from anywhere in the world and enjoy a seamless and personalized shopping experience. In designing the brand identity for Tomorrowland, I sought to reflect the store's innovative and futuristic spirit through a sleek and modern visual aesthetic. The brand's color palette, typography, and overall design convey a sense of innovation and technological sophistication, while still feeling approachable and user-friendly. Ultimately, my goal as the brand designer for Tomorrowland was to create a brand identity that not only resonates with the store's target audience but also helps to elevate the shopping experience to a new level.
2022 SPRING
TOMORROWLAND Branding concept
As the brand designer for Tomorrowland, my vision was to create a futuristic clothing store that combines cutting-edge smart technology with sleek and modern design. Through innovative remote fitting and one-click shopping features, Tomorrowland brings a new level of convenience and accessibility to the world of fashion. By utilizing modern smart technology, customers can experience the store from anywhere in the world and enjoy a seamless and personalized shopping experience. In designing the brand identity for Tomorrowland, I sought to reflect the store's innovative and futuristic spirit through a sleek and modern visual aesthetic. The brand's color palette, typography, and overall design convey a sense of innovation and technological sophistication, while still feeling approachable and user-friendly. Ultimately, my goal as the brand designer for Tomorrowland was to create a brand identity that not only resonates with the store's target audience but also helps to elevate the shopping experience to a new level.
2022 SPRING
TOMORROWLAND Branding concept
As the brand designer for Tomorrowland, my vision was to create a futuristic clothing store that combines cutting-edge smart technology with sleek and modern design. Through innovative remote fitting and one-click shopping features, Tomorrowland brings a new level of convenience and accessibility to the world of fashion. By utilizing modern smart technology, customers can experience the store from anywhere in the world and enjoy a seamless and personalized shopping experience. In designing the brand identity for Tomorrowland, I sought to reflect the store's innovative and futuristic spirit through a sleek and modern visual aesthetic. The brand's color palette, typography, and overall design convey a sense of innovation and technological sophistication, while still feeling approachable and user-friendly. Ultimately, my goal as the brand designer for Tomorrowland was to create a brand identity that not only resonates with the store's target audience but also helps to elevate the shopping experience to a new level.
2022 SPRING
TOMORROWLAND Branding concept
As the brand designer for Tomorrowland, my vision was to create a futuristic clothing store that combines cutting-edge smart technology with sleek and modern design. Through innovative remote fitting and one-click shopping features, Tomorrowland brings a new level of convenience and accessibility to the world of fashion. By utilizing modern smart technology, customers can experience the store from anywhere in the world and enjoy a seamless and personalized shopping experience. In designing the brand identity for Tomorrowland, I sought to reflect the store's innovative and futuristic spirit through a sleek and modern visual aesthetic. The brand's color palette, typography, and overall design convey a sense of innovation and technological sophistication, while still feeling approachable and user-friendly. Ultimately, my goal as the brand designer for Tomorrowland was to create a brand identity that not only resonates with the store's target audience but also helps to elevate the shopping experience to a new level.
2022 SPRING