My name is Canace (Yiran, 逸然) Chen, and I am currently studying at the Creative Computing Institute, University of the Arts London. My journey has been shaped by a series of serendipitous discoveries that have steered me towards a path where art and technology converge.
It all started by accident — my initial passion for art was reignited when I stumbled upon the multimedia and programming class during high school. What was meant to be an system error became a turning point, leading me to explore the endless possibilities technology offers in creative work. From that point, I delved deeper into design, coding, and game development, using tools like Adobe suites and experimenting with new forms of creative expression. As I moved into university, these experiments evolved, and I began to immerse myself in fields like VR, AR, interactive installations, machine learning, and generative AI.
My university has given me the platform to explore these intersections and build on my understanding of human-computer interaction. Through my undergraduate projects, I've worked on a range of exciting technologies—whether it's game, wearable technology, or app development — all with the aim to push boundaries and challenge the norm.
Working as a Creative Technologist at George P. Johnson has allowed me to apply my academic knowledge in real-world contexts, turning creative ideas into impactful, interactive experiences that engage and inspire audiences. My focus on using technology for social good, and creating experiences that foster connection, continues to fuel my passion for this field. As I look ahead, I am excited to keep experimenting, learning, and shaping the future of creative technology.
2024
Won bronze for best experiential at The Drum Awards (Powerful Plant, Starbucks Alshaya MENA Launch)
2023
Started the role of Creative Technologist at George P. Johnson UK
Received Grade A from the European Innovation Academy
Volunteered at the London AI Hackathon
2022
Received 3rd Place in Microsoft MadeCode Game Jam
2021
Started studying at the Creative Computing Institute, University of the Arts London
2020
Recognised as Outstanding Year 12 Students by ISQ (Independent Schools Queensland)
Graduated from Citipointe Christian College
Received Distinction (top 7%) in AMC (Australian Mathematics Competition)
Received Arts Achievement in the “Bella Voce” Choir
Participated in the NMSS (National Maths Summer School, at the University of Melbourne)
2019
Received Distinction in CSMC (Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest, conducted by the University of Waterloo)
Received Science Excellence for outstanding dedication towards the Science Department, Citipointe Christian College
Received Level 2 Award for Excellence in recognition of a high standard of personal conduct and active participation, Citipointe Christian College
Selected as the Cover artist in MERAKI Art Exhibition (at Woolloongabba Art Gallery)
Participated in the Vice-Chancellors STEM Camp (hosted by Queensland University of Technology)
Received High Distinction (top 4%) in AMC (Australian Maths Competition)
Received Credit in Kangourou sans Frontières (KSF)
Participated in the QMSS (Queensland Mathematics Summer School, hosted by the University of Queensland)
2018
Received Bronze medal in WMTC (World Mathematics Team Championship)
Received 3rd place in Maths Team Challenge (hosted by Anglican Church Grammar School)
Participated in the Integrity20 Conference (hosted by Griffith University)
Participated in MERAKI Art Exhibition (at Woolloongabba Art Gallery)
Received Distinction (top 10%) in ICAS Maths (conducted by University of New South Wales)
Received High Distinction (top 2%) in AMC (Australian Mathematics Competition)
Joined the G21 program as an Academic Tutor and Mentor
Received Merit in Australian History Competition
Joined the CSQL (Crime Stoppers Queensland Limited) as a Committee and Event Volunteer
Received Award for Excellence in recognition of high standard of personal conduct and hard work, Citipointe Christian College International