About
Audrey Hong - Story\Visdev Artist
Although I was born in Maryland, I grew up with my parents in Beijing. From my earliest memories, I was already an art kid who loved to draw on any flat surface I could find.
The moment that truly opened up my artistic career was one night in my childhood when I sneaked out of my room. My parents were rewatching The Lord of the Rings DVD in the living room while I hid in the corner, deeply drawn to the images on the TV. At that time, I couldn't understand all the plotlines, but I secretly resolved to become a storyteller.
Since then, I have been passionate about creating original stories and characters. Even though I never had the opportunity to study drawing, I never gave up on my dream. Upon graduating from high school, I finally had the chance to choose my path for the future. After thorough research, I decided to join the excellent computer animation major at Ringling.
During my education in Ringling, I found my dedication to the field of storyboarding. I love the feeling of telling stories with my brush. As a story artist, I can exchange ideas and brainstorm with other artists. It has surprised me, as I am no longer drawing alone but have found a group of talented friends. More importantly, I think turning imagination into reality is the world's most magical and wonderful thing. At this moment, I am the director, and the canvas is the stage. Any vague idea becomes tangible, and personal emotions can break cultural barriers through images. I hope to continue using my draftsmanship and cinematic techniques after graduation to move the souls on the other side of the screen with each and every shot.
Tiffany Chen - Animator
Growing up in Northern California, my journey began in the competitive realm of swimming. Like many children, I sampled various extracurricular activities, but two passions anchored me—swimming and art.
While my competitive swimming days are behind me, the fluidity and grace of swimming resonate deeply within my work as an animator. In the vast expanse of animation, I find echoes of the rhythmic strokes and powerful kicks that once propelled me through the water. Much like navigating the currents of a vast ocean, animation is a journey where every stroke of creativity propels me forward into uncharted waters.
Animation, to me, is akin to plunging into the clear waters of possibility. Each dive immerses me in a world where the laws of physics yield to the boundless imagination. Just as a swimmer propels themselves through the water, I propel characters through time and space, crafting movements that ripple and flow with the same elegance and precision as a well-executed stroke.
In my childhood, animation served as my buoy, providing solace amid uncertainty. Through the adventures of animated characters, I discovered a sense of kinship, inspiration, and belonging. Now, as an animator, I honor those formative experiences while forging my own path through the ever-shifting tides of creativity.
At the heart of my work lies a deep passion for storytelling. I believe that animation has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, connecting people from different walks of life through shared experiences and universal themes. Whether it's a whimsical tale set in a fantastical world or a poignant exploration of the human condition, I strive to imbue my animations with authenticity and emotional resonance.