Karina Zhou
Film Links
‘Fascinating World’ Short Film Still
Watercolor, Digital Animation
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/FBQadeayadk
‘My Bouquet’ Short Film Still
3D Animation
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/jRraRGpAzso
Oh, Crab!’ Short Film Samples
Above: 3D model and Texture by Karina Zhou
Below: Lighting and Composite by Lewi Thute
Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/jxFu8A3bJyI?si=t4NK_wHW7R5KQlmL
Artist Statement
Karina Zhou is a Chinese-Canadian author, illustrator and animator with a passion for creating work that sparks joy and wonder across mediums. Currently, she’s studying Animation at California College of the Arts in San Francisco and often works with animation/design studios and nonprofit organizations.
Karina published her debut picture book, Kai’s Tea Eggs when she was 19 years old as a love letter to her younger self. Her stories are often rooted in personal experiences that explore the depths of familial relationships and cultural identities. From dragons that can cook to puppets that dance and twirl, Karina loves sprinkling fantastical elements into her work, creating portals for audiences to embark on adventures beyond their imaginations.
Her animated films explore the intersectionality of communities and individuals. In 2023, she founded +1Studios with her teammates and together, their films have screened all around the world, winning titles such as ‘Best in Animation’ 2024 at Butte Film Festival. She loves using her artistic style to design quirky main characters and compelling stories about Asian culture and finding one’s identity.
When Karina’s not at her desk, she loves attempting to cook her family’s recipes and trying new cuisines. When the sun’s out, you can find Karina wandering the great outdoors, skipping under tall pine trees and sipping on chamomile tea.
How did you get started in your artistic journey?
The first time I took an art class at 8 years old, my teacher said one thing to me, “There are no mistakes in art”. I took his words to heart. Throughout the years, I’ve continued to boldly explore art in all its forms from painting and photography to music and performance. Art became my safe outlet for self-expression and stories. This passion early-on led me to study Animation at California College of the Arts, where I’ve gained more experience learning in 3D and digital media. I love the potential that art holds in channeling our inner voices, elevating our cultural histories and creating new ways to bond communities.
Describe how your art reflects your Asian identity.
Growing up in a Chinese-Canadian family, I use my own lived experiences to create relatable, charming stories that educate and entertain audiences.
I wrote and illustrated the children’s book, Kai’s Tea Eggs as a love letter to my younger self, retelling the story of the first time I brought my family’s food into a classroom. My upcoming picture book, Eddy’s Shadow Puppets also engages with that childhood wonder and appreciation for Asian heritage, as the story follows the relationship between a kid and his grandpa, who shows him the power of ancient shadow puppetry.
In my animated films, I often place characters in new or uncomfortable situations, where they must turn to their friendships or communities to rise above obstacles. Since moving to a new city, I’ve become more aware of how my Asian identity impacts my daily life and the memories I held throughout childhood. Currently, I’m in production of a year-long 3D short film that explores how immigrant parental relationships can influence the way our next generation navigates their lives.
Throughout the mediums I use, I hope to reflect the dynamic beauty and complexities of growing up in multicultural environments. By imagining fantastical worlds, I wish to help my audiences process their own experiences through colorful and (hopefully) fun media.
How did you develop your creative identity?
My creative identity is one of constant metamorphosis and change, which I’ve learned to embrace throughout the years. Regardless of what the project is, I always begin with the question of, “how would this make someone feel?”. From there, I look to create warm, engaging art or designs that translate the emotions I hope to create.
What is one piece of creative advice you’d like to share?
I feel like we’re geared in school or life to always find the ‘correct answer’ to our various problems. I thought that the answer to my creativity was something I had to attain by completing that project or job or next big goal. What I’ve noticed throughout the years is that ‘creativity' is a practice, one which transforms and adapts as you grow alongside it. If you feel lost in your process, lean into your pockets of curiosity. Ask questions to other people, try a new method and fail, dig deep into what you love and ask even more questions. Our practice is a lifelong journey, and when we allow ourselves to explore beyond what we know, we’re in for a ride of awe and wonder.
Karina Zhou