Date & Time: 10/31 (FRI) 15:30～17:10

Location: Literary Arts Ecology Hall K301

Writer: Po-Hsun, Yuan

This year’s TNUA 15th Anniversary Alumni Lecture invited four alumni from the Department of Animation to return to campus and share their experiences of growing from students into industry professionals. Reflecting on both their careers and their student years, they addressed the audience’s questions about future directions.

The alumni began by discussing their thoughts on the screening works, emphasizing the importance of “observing reality.” One alumnus mentioned that animation references should not rely solely on rotoscoping or online materials, but should instead be accumulated from daily life. When a student asked, “What should I do when I feel uninspired?” They shared how they balanced academics with entertainment during college by attending exhibitions, music events, and clubs. They emphasized that as long as one continues to observe and experience life, inspiration will follow. They also encouraged students to seize the opportunity to be rebellious.

When discussing career development, several alumni shared the same view: “Opportunities cannot be forced—you have to create the conditions for them.” They spoke about leveraging social media for exposure, submitting works to film festivals, and actively networking. They encouraged students to explore different paths such as commercial collaborations, freelancing, and learning about various industry roles.

In response to the question, “Why not pursue a career abroad?”, the alumni provided practical insights. Differences in government funding systems and living costs between countries make it difficult to sustain a career in multiple places simultaneously. Some compared the Taiwanese animation industry with those in Europe and the U.S., mentioning challenges such as language barriers and cultural pressure. “Rather than splitting efforts between two places, it’s better to take root in one.”one alumnus remarked. A stable environment supports long-term growth—staying in Taiwan offers lower living costs, while overseas opportunities are of a completely different nature.

Another audience member asked, “How can I find a position that suits my strengths?” One alumnus explained the difference between being a “creator” and an “art worker” as two possible career paths. Creators might pursue artist residencies, while art workers often engage with markets and collaborations. He reminded students to be clear about their motivations, goals, and understanding of the broader industry. Even working abroad, better conditions are not necessarily guaranteed.

In the end, the four alumni offered a heartfelt reminder: the reality of being an artist is never easy, but the value of creation lies in persistence through everyday life. Whether in Taiwan or overseas, only through continuous creation and observation can one discover their place within an ever-changing industry.