With graduation approaching, I started researching what the animation industry is like outside the UK, focusing on the US and China. In Unit 3, we had lectures about the global animation scene and its impact on the industry in comparison to the UK animation scene.
Through research and experience watching animated shorts produced in the UK, I noticed that a lot of films is presented as a form of artistic expression through abstract narratives or stylised storytelling through visuals and atmosphere, encouraging the artist as a person and experimentation of techniques to best express emotion and meaning. This knowledge and research have played a part in influencing how I tackle storytelling through emotional storytelling, dynamic cinematography, and the importance in combining the animation to sound and music.
One talk I attended was by Christ Coleman from Final Frontier, who spoke in-depth about the animation industry in China. He explained how the industry is growing, especially in games and film, and how Western directors are increasingly collaborating with Chinese studios. This east-west collaboration is leading to more diverse and unique media projects. He also highlighted how Chinese mythology often influences their animation, making their stories visually rich and culturally distinct. Coleman also gave helpful advice on building a career through content creation and side projects to grow a portfolio and earn income.
Another talk I attended was by Juliette Rogasik, who discussed the animation industry in the US. She explained how to work there through visas and sponsorships and shared tips on career development after university, such as internships and entry-level roles. This helped me understand how to gain experience and what it would take to work my way up in the industry. After the talk, I emailed Josh to request Juliette’s presentation so I could review the information again later and more in-depth.
The idea of working abroad has always been a concept I was interested in ever since I started progressing in the animation industry as well as the film industry too, being able to experience different takes of the industry in different parts of the world while still being connected to everything in a time of easier global connectivity and networking. In addition, to also being able to live and work in a new environment outside your comfort zone, meeting new industry creatives and expanding the networking connections to be able to find more work opportunities. The talks helped me develop a better understanding of the industry presence in the US and China as well as internationally as a whole. I started doing my own research into the process of immigration process what is required to make it possible and how animators can get sponsorship, often starting through freelance work.