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City Design (MA)

Zihan Zhang

Zihan Zhang is interested in the intersection of art, architecture, and virtual reality. Having graduated from the University of Liverpool with a degree in Architecture, Zihan has primarily focused on traditional architectural projects. However, a new passion for experimental digital art and multimedia interactive design in relation to smart cities emerged during their time at the RCA.

This project represents Zihan's initial exploration into the realm of virtual reality and interdisciplinary design tools as a means to respond to and address urban problems. By leveraging virtual reality, the project aims to provoke critical reflection on the intricate relationship between humans and plants while shedding light on urgent issues such as border violence, migration, and environmental stewardship.

Through this project, Zihan invites viewers to challenge preconceived notions and embark on a virtual journey exploring plants' multifaceted nature. It also showcases the transition from traditional architectural projects to the innovative use of virtual reality and other interdisciplinary design tools. 

 
Botanical RealmBotanical Realms is an immersive virtual reality project that delves into the intricate and evolving relationship between humans and nature. By exploring the complex dynamics of weaponizing plants and discovering alternative uses, this project aims to provoke critical reflection on our role as stewards of the natural world.

Medium:

Virtual Reality
Photograph
Agave in the border environmentThe foundation of this project lies in the fieldwork in Ventimiglia (on the migrant trail crossing the border). Lost of non-native vegetations are grew in the border area and Agave is one of them.
Photogrammetry&phtograph
Agave in the border environment
photograph
Botanical Garden in Ventimiglia Hanbury botanical garden in ventimiglia. Today 9 of the gardens' 18 hectares are under cultivation, and contain about 2500 taxa. Many of the species are plants of Mediterranean climates from the six Mediterranean climate zones of the world.
Rendering, Photograph
Virtual Plant: agave001
Rendering, Photograph
Virtual Plant: Yucca 001
Rendering, Photograph
Virtual Plant: Pinus 001
Rendering, Photograph
Virtual Plant: Aleo 001

Medium:

Picture
Screenshots of simulation in unreal engine
Chapter 1: Introduction
Screenshot of simulation in unreal engine
Chapter 2: Find your wayPlayer will explore the landscape and discover the radio player as a means of communication with the Botanist. The player is guided to follow arrows and clues, using their instincts to navigate the challenges posed by the mutated plants.
Screenshot of simulation in unreal engine
Chapter 3: Find your wayThe third chapter takes place in an exaggerated virtual reality where mutated plants and drones pose challenges to the player. The text boxes introduce each type of vegetation, including the agave, Yucca Faxoniana, aloe vera, and Pinus Canariensis, highlighting their characteristics and potential uses. The player is encouraged to explore, learn, and interact with these plants while following the guidance of the Botanist.
Screenshot of simulation in unreal engine
Chapter 3: Find your way(Agave)
Screenshot of simulation in unreal engine
Chapter 3: Find your way(Yucca)
Screenshot of simulation in unreal engine
Chapter 3: Find your way(Pinus)
Screenshot of simulation in unreal engine
Chapter 3: Find your way(Aleo)

Medium:

Unreal Engine& Virtual Reality