After a final semester of creation, I began to rethink the true reasons I drew “animal characters.” Initially, whether it was the puppy in the one-minute animation Chaos Pause Encores or the kitten in Shadow Chase, I simply treated them as part of a visual language. But as the project progressed, I discovered that these characters actually served a greater function of emotional expression. They acted as a kind of substitute “self-projection,” expressing my unspoken emotions and wildly imaginative thoughts. At the same time, they retained the unruly, carefree, and primal nature of small animals.

Chaos Pause Encores is a state that is both quiet and chaotic, a new order: everything looks cute and soft, but the behavior and spatial relationships carry a sense of instability. From initially filming passersby and a puppy fighting over a branch on the street to the development of this short film, I began to realize that what interested me was not the traditional “cute IP,” but rather animal characters with their own unique psychological atmosphere. I hope that when viewers see these characters, they will not only find them “cute,” nor overthink the meaning of their behavior, but will also experience a sense of projection and companionship.

In my graduation project, Shadow Chase, this direction became even clearer. I began using stronger contrasts and more narrative-driven spatial and behavioral designs. The characters were no longer simply playing, but were supported by more realistic scientific reasons. In the cat’s “chasing its shadow,” the fantastical plot reveals an inner psychological state. I found myself enjoying “combining characters with more multi-dimensional spaces”—the characters themselves are simple and abstract, but the environment, rhythm, and materials allow them to possess deeper emotional performances.

I also began to consider whether my future career path could revolve around this kind of “emotional IP.” Compared to purely commercial character design, I hope my work can simultaneously possess artistic expression and emotional resonance. Currently, while creating animation, I am also simultaneously creating a series of personal merchandise. I believe that in the future, I can try more experimental forms such as animated short films, interdisciplinary art installations, etc., allowing characters to enter more realistic and richer thematic scenarios.

Currently, I still need to continue to improve my narrative skills and character development capabilities. Especially in terms of expanding the character’s worldview and interacting with the audience, I hope to establish a more complete creative system.