肖艷菲 Ann Xiao (http://www.annxiao.com)
A. What made you interested in animation and graphics design? Why did you choose imaging design as your career?

Q.When I was a teenager, I was passionate about comic and had been drawing comic stories for many years. I came to London to study illustration. One day I was inspired to make some movements in my illustration and I was immediately blown away by the result and the possibilities animation could offer. Animation satisfied my desire in story telling and directing. I just realized images could be formed into a film pretty easily.

A. You had studied in architecture in China and pursued a master degree in UK. Can you share the difference between two places? Why did you decide to change your field of study from architecture to fine art?

Q. I had a strong interest in architecture but from early stage of the education I realized my personality was not patient enough to follow instructions and regulations. I wanted to have more control of creativity. In illustration and animation I could make myself the king of my own work. That’s why I decided to become a director rather than architect. But I have always had a connection with architecture, which can be easily seen in many of my animation works.

A. The creative industry in China has been blooming now. It provides a better environment for young Asian artists to have achievements. What made you decide to develop your career in UK after finishing your MA?

Q. I think China is the best place to “use” your talent because of the amazing opportunities. But UK is the best place to “develop” your talent because there is so much you can learn. I have been working in UK because I feel my glass of learning hasn’t been full yet. However I would see myself pursuing a career in China in the future, where I will not start from zero.

A. Do you think your works reflect your experiences under the context of both Western and Chinese cultures?

Q. Actually in many occasion, I was more looking into a subject in general rather than concerning Western or Chinese. Such as I might create a surreal architectural world in a music video without considering Western or Oriental. I don’t really divide cultures into these two categories. Maybe living in London makes me seeing everything more internationally. But I think subconsciously, my work shows that I’m influenced by Western visual culture but deep down my value and philosophy is still Chinese.

A. Many young Asian designers or artists received training Overseas after they finished high school. What is your view on this practice? Would it be a benefit for Asian’s designer to develop their careers in Western countries?

Q. When I was in China, I felt there were a few certain “trends” or “styles” overtaking the visual value and the market, which I struggled to break myself from. Studying and living overseas really opened my eyes and freed my mind. I’d say there is still more freedom and varieties in Western visual world than Chinese. I think it’s necessary to know what’s happening in the world if you want to be the best designer. However, if you are smart and open minded enough, you can possible achieve the experience through Internet and social networks.

A. What is your view on the creative industry in Asia today? How would you compare it with the Western?

Q. It’s energetic, lively, uplifting, chaotic and immature. It’s exciting to see the big waves in Asian creative industry. But it takes time to find the very few gems. The industry also need time to build an effective system and respected regulations.

A. Globalization is more significant now and information is easier to be obtained via media like Internet and institutions. Under this circumstance, do you think Asian young artist’s work is going globalized or still keeping a particular character in Asian art? Do you think maintaining the Asian character is important for Asian artists to be success in Western creative arena?

Q. I think you can’t stop the designers admiring the more advanced Western design that they desire to be international. I’m sure the first stage of the growth would be visually globalized as a big trend. But I think after we have experienced the excitement in “visuals” and “forms”, we would find out values and thoughts become more important in our designs. At that time, we’ll find more Asian artists and designers who eager to go back to their inner world and find themselves. I don’t worry too much about “Asian character” because I know it’s built in our blood.

A. From your point of view, what are the key factors that Asian artists to receive recognition in Western market?
Q. Independent thinking and outstanding execution.

A. Anything that a government can do to help developing the creative industry?
Q. Financial support is more useful than anything.