2D animation · 2022–23
Chinese Dama
Chinese Dama pairs two subjects often dismissed as outdated: middle-aged Chinese women and shadow puppetry. The animated film begins with familiar stereotypes, then shifts toward quieter scenes of style, travel, friendship, and self-determined pleasure.
Format
Approximately 3 minute 40 second 2D animation
Materials
Artificial cowhide, mineral pigment, burin, beeswax
Development
Character sets, twelve-shot storyboard, sound and platform strategy
Audience
Young users of Chinese short-video platforms
01
Researching a stereotype
The project traces recurring portrayals of the ‘Chinese Dama’ in popular media and short-video culture. Character groups embody these clichés before the narrative deliberately turns toward less visible, self-directed lives.
02
Tradition as a living language
Puppets carved from cowhide, articulated bodies, opera-inflected sound, and contemporary pacing bring traditional visual grammar into conversation with present-day social media.
Complete project
Read the project in full
All 5 pages, grouped into chapters for web viewing.