Over the course of my studies, I have gradually developed a clearer understanding of my strengths, areas for improvement, and the type of work I would like to pursue after graduation.
My academic background combines undergraduate study in Animation with postgraduate study in Character Animation at Central Saint Martins. Throughout this period, I have worked primarily with Clip Studio Paint, Photoshop and Procreate. These tools have supported both my animation practice and visual development work, and have become an important part of my creative workflow.
One of the most significant aspects of my postgraduate experience has been the emphasis placed on character performance. Through a range of studio exercises, workshops and project work, I have spent considerable time observing movement, analysing acting choices and exploring how emotion can be communicated through animation. Repeated practice in facial performance, body mechanics and character acting has strengthened my understanding of timing and spacing, as well as animation principles such as ease in and ease out. Over time, these principles have become less about technical execution and more about supporting believable performance.
Looking back at the work I have produced during the course, I feel that my understanding of character acting has improved considerably. Through both the performance exercises and the development of my graduation project, I became increasingly aware of how subtle animation choices shape an audience’s understanding of a character. Small changes in facial performance, posture and gesture can communicate emotional shifts more clearly, while adjustments in timing and speed can influence how weight, energy and intention are perceived on screen.
These projects encouraged me to think more critically about character performance. Rather than focusing solely on whether movement appears smooth, I became more interested in how performance supports emotion and storytelling. This has helped me make more deliberate animation choices and consider how character acting can contribute to character development and narrative communication.
At the same time, I have also identified areas that I would like to continue developing. Storyboard design and shot composition are two areas that I find particularly interesting, and I would like to strengthen my understanding of visual storytelling through further practice. I am also aware that professional experience within the industry remains an important next step in my development.
As I begin preparing for graduation, I find myself increasingly drawn towards the roles of 2D Animator and Storyboard Artist. Both career paths combine the aspects of animation that I have enjoyed most throughout my studies: drawing, performance and storytelling. While my interests may continue to evolve, this reflection has helped me establish a clearer sense of direction and identify the skills I would like to continue developing as I move towards professional practice.
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