Interview with Daye An | Bringing Stories to Life with Animations

My name is Daye An. I'm a designer and motion designer from South Korea, currently based in New York. I studied design in New York, where I developed a strong foundation in both graphic and motion design.

My journey began with freelance work as a motion designer in broadcast, where I gained hands-on experience bringing stories to life on screen. Now, I’m working as a motion designer at a small motion design studio, where I continue to explore the art of animation — a passion of mine. Alongside motion design, I have a deep interest in illustration.

I’ve been drawn to art for as long as I can remember, always filled with creative images that I loved expressing visually. Over time, I discovered that I was especially captivated by animation and motion design.

Moving media felt so much more powerful than static images, opening up endless possibilities to convey emotions, ideas, and stories. What motivated me to become a digital designer was the impact animation could create — it’s a medium that can immerse audiences, evoke emotions, and tell stories in ways that linger with people. The dynamic nature of animation inspired me to pursue this path, where I can bring ideas to life through movement and narrative.

I work as a motion designer at a motion design studio "Made by Things", where we create visuals for a diverse range of brands like Torani and Lightspeed. My role involves adding movement and personality to brands to enhance their identity, as well as developing commercials that communicate a company’s purpose clearly and effectively to its audience. While my primary focus is motion design, I also take on roles as a designer and illustrator, adapting to the needs of each project.

Previously, I freelanced as a GFX artist for Nickelodeon, where I created visuals and assets for TV shows like SlimeTime. This experience helped me build a strong foundation in creating engaging content for a wide audience.

My favorite kind of digital design is motion graphics because of its ability to blend storytelling with visual dynamics. Motion graphics can bring static elements to life, adding rhythm and personality to a concept in a way that captures attention immediately. With movement, timing, and carefully crafted transitions, motion graphics can turn complex ideas into something easily digestible and engaging.

I also love the creative freedom motion design offers; it’s not only about visuals. I can experiment with sound, motion, shifting colors, and evolving forms to build a truly immersive experience. This versatility lets me craft designs that feel dynamic and multidimensional, allowing for a unique level of expression that connects with audiences on multiple sensory levels.

A good design is one that communicates its intended message clearly while resonating with the audience. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about achieving a balance between function and aesthetics.

For me, a strong design should evoke an emotional response — whether that’s excitement, curiosity, or trust. It should also be visually refined to capture attention while effectively conveying its purpose. In motion design, this often means using movement and timing, grounded in solid design principles, to create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.

My design style is adaptable and centered on storytelling. Rather than adhering to a single look, I love experimenting with various styles — whether it’s traditional animation, digital animation, or 3D — to find the best way to bring a concept to life. Each project offers an opportunity to explore a new aesthetic, so my approach is versatile and open.

The main characteristic of my style is its focus on meaning and narrative. I strive to create visuals that feel purposeful, where every element supports the story or message being conveyed. This flexible, story-driven approach lets me shape designs that resonate deeply with audiences while keeping my work fresh and exciting.

My design process begins with creating a mood board. This helps me gather inspiration from various artists, guiding me toward a general style while allowing me to add my own perspective. From there, I start sketching to refine the initial idea in my head, then create a rough animatic to plan out the timing, flow, and composition of the animation.

Once the roughs are in place, I create style frames to nail down the specific look and feel. Then, based on these frames, I move into producing the actual animation, using either Photoshop, After Effects, or Cinema 4D, depending on the chosen style. After finishing the animation, I add sound and gather feedback from peers to refine the final piece before releasing it. This approach keeps the project organized and ensures the outcome aligns with the vision.

I draw inspiration from everywhere. Often, it comes from my own thoughts — thinking through different questions or ideas, whether they’re about internal reflections or observations of the world. These musings frequently become the foundation for a new project or theme.

I’m also deeply motivated by the work of other artists. Seeing how others express their ideas visually and reading about their creative journeys fuels my own creativity. It pushes me to try new approaches and incorporate fresh ideas, always with my personal style and perspective woven in. This blend of self-reflection and creative admiration keeps my work evolving and grounded in meaning.

I'm excited to see people explore the combination of 3D and 2D styles. This fusion allows for a unique visual language that enhances storytelling and creates a more immersive experience. The interplay between dimensionality and flatness adds depth and texture, making the visuals feel dynamic and engaging.

I'm also a fan of traditional cel-style 2D animations making a comeback. There’s something nostalgic and charming about the craftsmanship involved in these animations, and they often carry a warmth and personality. Both trends reflect a growing appreciation for artistic techniques that blend modern technology with classic artistry.

Winning the 2024 Vega Awards is an incredible honor for me and my team. It validates the hard work, creativity, and passion we put into our projects. This recognition not only highlights our commitment to excellence in motion design but also inspires us to push the boundaries of our creativity even further.

It reinforces the idea that our efforts to blend storytelling with striking visuals resonate with audiences and industry peers alike. Overall, receiving this distinction motivates us to continue striving for excellence and exploring new ideas that can elevate our craft.

"Just One Plastic" addresses a critical issue that me and my team have always been interested in, and resonates deeply with our society: the impact of plastic usage in our daily lives. This animation challenges viewers to consider the broader implications of their everyday choices in a world where plastic has become synonymous with convenience.

The project is set against the backdrop of modern society, illustrating how seamlessly plastic products integrate into our routines, often without a second thought. We chose this project for the awards because it serves as both a reflection on the individual and a powerful call to action. It aims to inspire viewers to recognize that seemingly insignificant choices, when multiplied across millions, can have a profound environmental impact.

Winning this award would not only validate our efforts but also amplify the message of collective awareness and responsibility that the animation promotes, encouraging a shift in perspective regarding plastic consumption.

The biggest challenge was conveying an important message about plastic usage within a compact video. With limited time to engage the audience, I needed to ensure that the message was both clear and impactful.

Creating a storytelling structure that resonated with viewers was crucial. We aimed to highlight the significance of individual choices regarding plastic usage, illustrating how seemingly small actions can collectively lead to much larger consequences. By incorporating everyday environments into the scenes, we made it easier for viewers to relate and see themselves in the situation.

Winning an award has had a profound impact on my practice as a motion designer. It has not only validated my work but also boosted my confidence to explore new creative avenues.

This recognition encourages me to push the boundaries of my craft, knowing that my efforts can resonate with a wider audience. It motivates me to continue creating meaningful work that inspires and engages audiences.

Firstly, endless Creativity. The digital realm offers limitless opportunities for creativity and experimentation. Whether it's through animation, graphic design, or interactive media, I love how technology enables artists to push boundaries and explore new styles and techniques. This environment fosters innovation, allowing for unique storytelling and visual expressions that captivate audiences.

Secondly, the community. The digital industry is rich with collaboration. Working alongside talented designers, developers, and other creatives creates a vibrant community where ideas flow freely. I appreciate how sharing knowledge and experiences can lead to growth and inspiration, helping us all elevate our work and learn from one another.

Lastly, the impact. Digital media has the power to reach global audiences instantly. I find it exciting to create work that can inspire, inform, and evoke emotions across diverse demographics. The ability to address important issues, tell meaningful stories, and connect with people from different backgrounds through digital platforms makes this industry incredibly fulfilling.

I think both South Korea and New York bring unique qualities to the digital industry.

In South Korea, the blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge technology creates a dynamic environment for creativity. Also, the rise of K-pop and independent animation has inspired a new generation of artists, fostering innovative storytelling and visual styles.

New York is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and artistic expressions. The city's vibrant creative community and diverse influences provide endless inspiration. Living in such a fast-paced environment has challenged me to grow as a designer and explore a variety of styles and techniques. The opportunities and accessibility of resources make New York an ideal place for artistic development.

While I definitely think AI will develop further, providing tools to enhance our creative processes, your artistic skills and decision-making will still be essential. The unique human touch in design—especially in conveying emotions and personal perspectives—cannot be replicated.

Additionally, the power of storytelling will always remain central to our work. As digital media evolves, the demand for compelling narratives that resonate with audiences will grow. Whether through motion graphics, animation, or interactive experiences, being able to tell meaningful stories will set your work apart.

In essence, the future will likely be a blend of innovative technology and human creativity, where artists leverage new tools while maintaining the core elements of artistry and storytelling that make our work impactful.

My advice would be to embrace your creativity and not be afraid to express yourself. The most impactful work often comes from finding something meaningful that you want to say. Take the time to explore your interests and passions, as these will guide you in developing a unique voice in your projects. Also, experiment with different styles and techniques—don’t shy away from trying new things.

Every experience, whether successful or not, contributes to your growth as a designer. Seek feedback from peers and mentors, as constructive criticism can help you refine your skills and elevate your work.

Lastly, stay engaged with the creative community. Follow other artists and learn from others. This journey is about continuous learning and exploration, so keep pushing boundaries and let your passion drive you forward!

For anyone looking to improve their skills in the digital industry, I think getting resources online is an easy and great way. Websites like Behance and It's Nice That are excellent places to explore a wide range of creative work. These platforms allow designers to share their projects daily, providing inspiration and insights into current trends and techniques. Also in this era, social media can be a fantastic source of inspiration. Following artists on SNS allows you to see their creative processes and engage with their work.

Ultimately, the key is to stay curious and open-minded, constantly seeking inspiration to enhance your skills in this dynamic field.

One thing I haven't shared widely is how much self-doubt I've experienced throughout my career. Even after winning an award, I still grapple with moments of insecurity about my work and whether I'm truly conveying my ideas effectively. It can be challenging to put your creative vision out into the world, especially in such a competitive field.

However, I’ve learned that these feelings are part of the creative process. I've found that sharing my experiences with peers can be incredibly validating and motivating, reminding me that everyone faces their own struggles in this journey. This has encouraged me to keep creating and exploring new ideas, no matter the obstacles.

I don’t have a specific person who has inspired me; rather, I find inspiration from a diverse range of artists. Being exposed to various art styles and techniques has fueled my curiosity and desire to experiment with different approaches.

The wealth of creativity I see online has greatly expanded my appreciation for art and motion design. Each artist brings a unique perspective, and seeing their work encourages me to explore new ideas and push my own boundaries. This collective influence has helped shape my journey as a motion designer, motivating me to continually evolve and find my voice in this dynamic field.

My key to success is simply the commitment to continuous learning and growth. I believe staying curious and open to new ideas is crucial in this industry. By embracing different styles and techniques, I can keep my work fresh and meaningful.

One important lesson I've learned is to keep creating, even when faced with challenges. Every project is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay dedicated to your craft, explore your creativity, and remember that every step, big or small, contributes to your journey. Just enjoy the process and keep moving forward!