Animation director,  2D & stop-motion animator, Motion graphics designer

Background
TAFA Animation (2016-2020)

RCA Narrative Animation (2021-2023)

Skills · 2D Animation, Stop motion Animation, Motion Graphics proficiency
· Concept Design
· Storyboarding
· Time and Pacing
· Projection Mapping
· AR
· Team Collaboration
· Time management
· Problem-solving
· Attention to detail
· Communication


Softwares
· Adobe Creative Suite
· TVPaint
· Clip Studio Paint
· Moho
· Procreate Dreams
· Blender






Hi, I am a London-based animation director, storyboard artist, 2D & stop-motion animator, and illustration artist from China. 

In my artistic practice, I draw inspiration from personal experiences, social psychology, and philosophy. My work spans various mediums, encompassing live-action, 2D animation, stop-motion animation, motion graphics, and installation. Viewing my creations as a healing process, I engage in a dialogue with viewers by dissecting memories and exploring the self.

As an Asian artist, my creations are deeply influenced by my own encounters and social psychological phenomena in East Asia, delving into themes like the great mother family structure, pathological symbiosis, and giant baby psychology. Reflecting on these issues from my unique perspective involves a self-dissection, and I consider my creative process akin to psychoanalysis. I firmly believe that art serves as the most direct and sincere form of expression, fostering a spiritual connection between the viewer and myself. Identifying as a storyteller, I actively explore the intersection between animation and narrative, extending beyond traditional boundaries.

Rather than confining myself to the realm of traditional animation, I integrate diverse media like live-action and installation into my works, challenging the linear narrative logic. At the core of my creative endeavors lies the sincere expression and transmission of emotions.

If you are interested in working with me, please feel free to contact.


Work history

2D Animator 2024 - Present
Dog Ears - Londonderry, UK

• Worked on the award-winning TV series Puffin Rock (Season 3)
• Actively responded to feedback and proposed creative and technical solutions.
• Maintained consistency in both quality and style throughout the production.
• Fostered a cohesive team environment through clear communication and collaboration.
• Utilized production tools to efficiently track workflow and meet deadlines.
• Provided regular progress updates to the Animation Supervisor, Production Manager, and Coordinator. • Integrated feedback and executed retakes to uphold the overall show quality.


Freelance Animator & Illustrator 2018 - Current
· Collaborated with a diverse team of animators, designers, and directors to produce engaging and high-quality animations.
· Produced custom animations for clients, showcasing adaptability and creativity in various animation styles.
· Applied strong animation and acting skills to create key poses, breakdown drawings, in-betweens, and final animations, aligning with project requirements.
· A perpetual learner, I stay ahead of industry trends, mastering tools like Moho, Procreate Dreams, Blender, and more.
· Demonstrating strong communication skills, team organization, and the ability to thrive independently, ensuring every project is a collaborative success.


Internship 2023
Valley Moon - London, UK

· Manage different tasks including website design, poster design, and video editing.
· Worked as lecture coordinator, coordinated lecture guests and audience, and maintained the order of the scene.

Animator & Animation Supervisor 2018-2019
Pencil Animation Studio - Tianjin, China
· Crafted compelling commercial animation and Motion Graphics advertisements for renowned brands, including Mobil, Nestle, BMW, Intel, and others.
·  Proficient in an array of animation software, from Tvpaint to Adobe Creative Suite and beyond.
·Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously, thriving in fast-paced, high-stress environments.








© All images are copyright of Icy Qiao