The Innovation Hubs

From June 17th to August 25th, North York Central Library welcomes Rui Jie Wang as our summer Innovator in Residence!

Photo courtesy of Rui Jie Wang.

With a background in computer science and art history, Rui Jie Wang has worked with not-for-profits, start-ups, and large companies alike to create impactful outcomes through design and most recently with immersive technologies like augmented reality, virtual reality and mixed reality (AR/VR/XR). Her work and interests lie in a mix of visual, conceptual and functional projects to experiment, break and push the limits of what the anticipated future could look like. Rui Jie is currently the Lead UX designer at Patio Interactive, designing and producing immersive experiences with a wide range of clients across many industries, to solve business challenges and create unique experiences with a disruptive toolbox.

We recently had the chance to chat with Rui Jie to get to know her better.

How did you get started in augmented reality (AR)?

When I chose to study computer science with a specialization in art history at Queen’s University, I had no clue where it would take me! I had been familiar with mobile apps and web design but something about bringing the digital into the physical realm seemed so exciting. I first began tinkering with Virtual Reality at various school hackathons and projects, which naturally translated well into Augmented Reality. After graduating university, I was fortunate enough to go to Copenhagen to study at a summer design school where I began experimenting with more immersive mediums first hand. When I began to work at Patio Interactive Inc., I gained the opportunity to use this knowledge and apply immersive technology to various client projects across many industries!

What do you enjoy the most about your work in the field of AR?

I enjoy the challenges and constant learning! The field is still new to mainstream audiences and is always growing. This evolution involves a lot of learning about different types of skills, perspectives and tools. Since I've worked in the field I have picked up a lot of 3D modelling, video editing, development, game design as well as design thinking skills that help me translate complex ideas into tangible work that exists in an ever evolving digital reality (like in the world of AR). Unlike a lot of other emerging tech like Blockchain or AI where the magic is behind the scenes, AR is something that has more visibility and directly interacts with user. Not only that, but this technology also has so many different innovative applications in areas such as education, accessibility, retail business, art and gaming, which will be highlighted and showcased in my programs and workshops this summer.

What inspires you when you are producing AR projects?

For more exploratory or experimental projects, a lot of theatrical, conceptual and experiential arts and movies are my sources of inspiration. For example, sci-fi films like Black Panther demonstrate really interesting and inspiring concepts that can drive the evolution of AR. It's sometimes crazy to think how magical or high fantasy tropes like opening up a portal to another world can be realized in a very basic way with the power of AR now. Even just observing the day to day activities can be a source of inspiration, as it can lead you to notice a problem you didn’t realize you had, which could become an opportunity to innovate and try something new!

Can you tell us about your upcoming projects?

Currently I am working on an AR mystery card game called Curious Case with a friend! The premise is that you have to solve a mystery by scanning and combining various "evidence cards". I really wanted to make an accessible board game that teaches some basic AR interactions while also exploring non-linear storytelling and I had a great time building the idea at the Femme Fatale game jam hosted by Dames Who Make Games with some really awesome, talented folks.

What interested you about Toronto Public Library's Innovator in Residence (IIR) position and what are you looking forward to in your residency?

I found the opportunity to interact with people with different technological backgrounds and understanding to be very refreshing. I have been learning so much through preparing for this residency and am really excited to share my knowledge and experiences and learn more from others too! The residency program is so unique in the way that it can be set up and since the topic of AR is so broad, I am really keen to have some guest speakers come to share their unique insights and experience within the field. I am also super excited to be running more experimental workshops like the Hologram Development workshops or the AR Armour workshop and see what the participants will come up with! My goal for each program is to inspire and empower whoever comes out to these events. My hope is that all participants, regardless of their technological expertise, can'take away something that they can explore on their own or at the 1 on 1 office hours in which I can provide feedback or advice on executing AR projects.

Don't pass up this exciting opportunity to meet Rui Jie and learn about Augmented Reality at one of her upcoming programs!