Animation school cultivates talent

There's been huge growth in the Chinese animation industry over the past decade. One major cause of that is the establishment of animation schools all across the country. Our reporter Stanley Lee visited one at the Communication University of China to explore the achievements of the industry, and the challenges it faces.

This is one of the earliest Chinese institutes of animation and digital media. The Communication University of China animation school was established in 2001 and is now a top breeding ground for China's next generation of animation artists.

More than a thousand full-time students are enrolled here, and are inspired by more than 80 faculty members in animation and digital arts.

They hope to challenge the traditional image of animation that the public take for granted.

Stanley Lee, CCTV Reporter, said, "Many Chinese hold the traditional from a production point of view."

Prof. Gao weihua, Animation School Director, said, "I think the notion that animation is solely for children is a misconception. True animation appeals to children and adults alike. For example Disney animation is designed for the whole family, the classic Chinese animation 'Monkey King' also received international fame of its rich imagination artistic presentation."

But imagination is now what's lacking in many parts of the Chinese animation industry. Many of the works aired on TV fall into the same mould. That's why animation Schools are looking to the past for new inspiration.

Stanley Lee, CCTV Reporter, said,"This school has a museum rich cultural heritage."

These treasured works are often based on Chinese history and mythologies and their originality is badly needed today.

However, some of the students here are also looking to the present for inspiration.

Huang Xinting, Student, said, "I'm working on my graduation film real-life experience."

So whether looking to the past or present, most will agree with these young people who are pioneers on the front line. China's animation industry holds a bright promise.