Chinese animation industry short on talent, creativity

The future for animation here looks bright indeed. The value of China's cultural industry hit an estimated four trillion yuan in 2012. As part of that, the animation industry has exploded by 20 percent. But even as it flourishes, creative talent is still going largely to overseas productions. Some say that's part of what is hindering creative development here in China.

Statistics show that the field of Chinese animation will need more than one million people in the coming ten years. Over 1,200 colleges and universities here have set up animation departments, and many more offer courses in it. Tens of thousands of animation students graduate every year -- yet there is still a void.

Huang Xinyuan, Communication University of China, said, "We have plenty of supply at the low end, but at the high end, there are a lot of vacancies."

Insiders point out that creative talent is what's most needed by today's world of Chinese animation. But in most colleges here, technology and basic drawing skills are still the focus of education. This has led to a pattern of copying Japanese and American animation styles.

Li Jianping, Beijing Film Academy, said, "Creative ability requires the accumulation of culture and comprehensive education. It's not an easy task."

Most Chinese animated works are not known for their creativity. In fact, much of China's work in animation is done for other countries, especially the U.S., Japan, South Korea and the U.K.

It's talent often goes toward helping international companies fulfill basic tasks in their productions.

If China wants to build a more original animation industry, it will need to shift the focus of its talent inward, rather than outward.