A Passion Project Between Arts, Tech, and Fashion
For Jason C. Gao, the costume designer behind the look, this project was more than cosplay. It was a fusion of performance technology, creative making, and personal growth. Gao, a master’s student in Georgia Tech’s Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) program, also holds an undergraduate degree in Computer Science with a minor in Music Technology from Tech. His work frequently bridges disciplines—from soldering circuits to sewing garments.
“I’ve always been passionate about collaborating across colleges at Georgia Tech,” said Gao. “This project was a perfect opportunity to combine my love of music, performance tech, and fiber arts. I got to try new techniques, improve my sewing, and work closely with Dr. Ting, who gave me so much freedom and feedback throughout.”
Gao designed and built the entire costume in just two weeks—balancing precision, speed, and creative compromise. “One of the most important lessons was knowing where to invest time. I started out hand-sewing each scale, but switched to a glue gun for efficiency. It taught me a lot about prioritizing details under tight constraints.”
Music, Meaning, and Making Connections
For Ting, Dragon Con was more than a performance—it was a celebration of creative expression and community. “What I love and admire most about Dragon Con is that it’s a people-centered event,” she said. “Everyone has their own stage to shine through the means of their choosing, and that’s what I believe strongly about arts and music.”
Ting views music as a bridge—not a pedestal. “Music should never be about superstars. These forms of expression exist because humans need to express what can’t always be said in words. I was honored to bring orchestral music into a space like Dragon Con, where different cultures, values, and aesthetics crash together in such beautiful ways.”
The event marked another moment in a growing legacy of Georgia Tech’s School of Music shaping the future of performance—where orchestral tradition meets interdisciplinary innovation. Whether through wearable tech, immersive sound, or cosplay that turns heads in a concert hall, students and faculty alike are redefining what it means to be creators.