Author: Qiaoyu Liao

  • Clean-up Artist — A Subtle but Essential Role in 2D Animation

    Besides my passion for stop-motion animation, I have also developed a strong interest in the clean-up process within 2D animation. To understand this role better, I conducted some research on what a clean-up artist actually does. Clean-up is a crucial but often overlooked stage in the 2D animation pipeline. The main responsibility of a clean-up…

  • Exploring Blinkink Studio

    At the beginning of this term, I had the opportunity to visit Blinkink, an animation studio located on Camden Road in London. The visit gave me a better understanding of how a professional studio operates and inspired me to think more deeply about my future in the animation industry. Blinkink is one of the UK’s…

  • Kytoon Studio and the Role of Puppet Maker

    During my studies in the MA Character Animation program at CSM, I have developed a strong interest in the field of stop-motion animation and hope to pursue a career in this industry after graduation. To prepare for this, I conducted some research on the current state of stop-motion animation in China. Unfortunately, due to the…

  • Exploring Animation Techniques: A Simulated Work Experience

    In Simulate Work, I worked with Year 2 students Xiao Tang, Wanyan Keung (Frances), and Kemeng Zhang (Cecilia). During the Simulated Work project, I participated in Group 1, collaborating with second-year students. This experience was incredibly meaningful to me, as I was primarily involved in 2D character animation and clay animation color testing. Throughout this…

  • Silent Film Reflections: Cooking, Emotions, and Exaggeration

    For the Silent Film project, I came up with a small story about cooking. The plot revolves around the protagonist preparing a delicious meal and thoroughly enjoying the process when, unexpectedly, the pan handle breaks. The pan and food are flung toward the ceiling, and everything ends in chaos. This idea was inspired by a…

  • Wallace&Gromit: A Milestone in Stop-Motion Animation History

    In the early 20th century, stop-motion animation began to take shape in the United Kingdom. After the establishment of Aardman Animations Limited, the technique entered a phase of maturity. In 1989, Nick Park’s Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out became an instant hit upon its release. Additionally, it was nominated for Best Animated Short…