We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ling Zhao a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Ling thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

I dedicated almost two years of my college life working on my first animated film, and it profoundly changed me—both as a person and in how I see the world.

Looking back, the experience was like a bittersweet symphony. My partner and I pulled so many all-nighters, constantly arguing over ideas, but also celebrating every little breakthrough or creative spark. Throughout this journey, we received unwavering support and encouragement from peers and mentors alike, and their applause remains a cherished memory.

The whole process of making that film taught me so much, and the personal growth I experienced during those two years was just as significant as the final product itself. It was the first time I realized how amazing it feels to create something entirely your own, something that truly reflects your thoughts and vision. When the film was finally completed, I knew it wasn’t perfect—not even close to what I’d imagined. But weirdly, I found myself grateful for its imperfections. They inspired me to strive for better, to create something closer to what I really want to express. That drive has become this powerful, inexhaustible source of energy for me, something that keeps me moving forward in both my work and my life.

Ling, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am an independent filmmaker specializing in 3D animated films, with a deep commitment to crafting stories that move people. This aspiration has been rooted in me since childhood, as I have always found great fascination in observing the world and life itself. How does the world function? Why do people interact in the ways they do? Within these questions lie some of the most profound emotions and truths.

During my college years, I chose to leave my hometown Shanghai and come to an entirely new country. Here, I encountered a remarkably diverse community, learned widely applicable techniques in filmmaking, and began to grasp the complexities of the world. This life of intense conflict and transformation gave rise to countless questions and imaginative ideas in my mind, ultimately reigniting my long-held desire to create. I teamed up with my partner and produced an independent film as my thesis project. When it was finished, I was acutely aware that it was not perfect—it did not even fully meet my own expectations. Yet, I felt deeply grateful for its imperfections. The pursuit of creating something better, something closer to what I aim to express, has since become a powerful, inexhaustible source of motivation. It compels me to continue moving forward on this creative path, dedicating my energy to producing more independent films and stories that could touch people deep in their heart.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, creating isn’t just about putting my energy out into the world—it’s also like a fresh spring in my heart that keeps sparking new ideas and strength inside me. The more I create, the more I learn about myself, the richer my understanding of the world becomes, and the clearer I see what’s missing in my own heart to make better work. Through this process, I continually discover myself, develop a deeper appreciation for life, and gain a greater understanding of the world. Over time, the challenge of creation has evolved from what I wish to express to how I can best express it—what tools, words, or visuals I can use to bring the amazing thoughts and feelings constantly emerge within me to life. Honestly, what brings me the greatest joy on this creative journey is the realization that I have grown into someone I could never have become without creating. And for that, I’m profoundly grateful.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I used to believe that art was all about breaking free from every limit and bias—that only sharp, unrestrained expression and limitless creation counted as real art. This belief once led me to dismiss works that were heartwarming or carried a positive, uplifting tone. But as I kept going on this creative journey, my view changed. After repeatedly witnessing the profound energy within art and its potential to touch people, I’ve come to really appreciate those creators who use their work to comfort hurting hearts and shine a light in this complex world. To understand life, to love it, and then to convey that understanding and love through art—this has become a driving force behind my ongoing creative endeavors.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lingzhao_art/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ling-zhao-101614194/
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/JSONGpKlfhI