As I prepare to graduate from my MA in Character Animation, I’ve been reflecting on the animation and game industries in both the UK and China. Each offers unique creative environments shaped by culture, visual traditions, and values.
In the UK, animation is often approached as a form of artistic expression. Independent studios support stylized hand-drawn visuals and atmospheric storytelling, encouraging individuality and experimentation. This openness to creative freedom has strongly influenced me—I’m drawn to quiet narratives, emotional tone, and painterly textures that reflect my visual style.
In contrast, China’s animation and game industries are developing rapidly, with a growing appreciation for artistic quality and cultural identity. Many studios are exploring the fusion of traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern storytelling, creating a space where personal expression and national heritage can coexist. While the market can be commercially focused, more independent creators and small studios are gaining visibility.
As a Chinese art student studying in the UK, I feel fortunate to be shaped by both systems. My work combines the narrative subtlety and personal voice encouraged in the UK with the visual richness and cultural depth of Chinese artistic traditions. I see myself as someone who can bridge visual styles and adapt to diverse creative environments.
My short-term goal is to join a studio—either in animation or game development—that values strong visuals, emotional tone, and stylized 2D work. Internships are an important next step, helping me gain practical experience and refine my collaborative skills.
In the UK, I’m especially inspired by The Line Animation for their expressive 2D animation and character-driven storytelling in both original shorts and game-related content. Feed Me Light also interests me with their flexible approach to visual style and creative animation for games and advertising. Ustwo games is another dream company—their emotionally resonant, visually polished games like Assemble with Care reflect the kind of storytelling I hope to contribute to.
In China, I admire Light Chaser Animation (追光动画) for their ability to merge cinematic production with a strong cultural identity. Their films show how traditional stories can be told with a modern voice. On the indie side, Shiying Studio (拾英工作室) creates atmospheric 2D games like Sanfu and Firework, with strong mood and storytelling—a direction I personally relate to and wish to develop further. In the long term, I hope to work as a character designer in the game industry, using my animation background to create expressive, emotionally rich characters. Whether in China or the UK, I aim to contribute to visually distinctive projects that combine strong design with storytelling depth