Animation | Graduation Series 2025
When Hyewon Jung (24), a South Korean and Christian artist, first arrived at WdKA in 2019 as an Illustration major, she didn’t expect to stay for six years. But through a gap year, a change in majors, and a dual degree in Psychology, her journey unfolded into something as layered and thoughtful as the animated films she now creates.
“Animation gave me space to explore storytelling in a more collaborative and rich way,” she says. “I realized I didn’t just want to draw, I wanted to help shape the story from the beginning.”
A Ceramic Doll and a Story of Healing
Hyewon’s final project is a deeply personal animated film that explores themes of identity, vulnerability, and transformation. “Broken is about a ceramic doll who goes on a journey to retrace her past and find healing,” she explains. The story draws on the Japanese art of Kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with gold, making the cracks part of the beauty.
“The twist is that the potter mends the doll with her own bleeding hands. It’s a metaphor for how healing is painful, but also precious. I think it reflects my own journey as a creator.”
Her background in psychology informs the emotional depth of the project. “I often explore stories of healing and transformation, and this one is really close to me,” she shares. That closeness, however, has brought its own challenges.
“Being vulnerable in your work is tough,” Hyewon admits. “Working alone gave me control over the project, but it also meant dealing with doubt and pressure. I’m learning to push through that, to make things even when I don’t feel the creative spark.”
Experimenting with Craft and Form
True to her multidisciplinary spirit, Hyewon is currently experimenting with an eclectic blend of techniques: 2D and 3D animation, stop motion, oil pastel, watercolor, and ceramic textures, all driven by an openness to explore.
“The craftsmanship is what I really enjoy. I’m still testing things out, so I don’t know exactly how the final version will look, but that’s part of the excitement. It’s been living in my head for so long, I’m so excited to finally see it come to life.”
The technical complexity of animation has also taught her valuable lessons in time management and emotional resilience. “You can’t procrastinate in animation,” she laughs. “You just can’t.”
Growth Through Movement and Making
Hyewon speaks warmly of her time at WdKA: “This place gave me the courage to try different things. I started my adulthood here.” One of her favorite aspects of the school is its flexibility. “You can talk to students from other majors, experiment across disciplines, and access so many resources from ceramics to animation festivals.”
Reflecting on her growth, she says, “I’ve become much more proactive and independent. In the beginning, I was more reserved. Now I’m not afraid to ask questions, to connect with people, to collaborate. That’s been huge.”
Pitching her film at Playgrounds and getting feedback from professionals gave her further insight into the industry. “Festivals, alumni contacts, and even just visiting the ceramics station - all of it has shaped how I work.”
Looking Ahead
As graduation approaches, Hyewon describes her feelings as “50/50 nervous and excited.” After nearly six years, it’s the end of a long chapter, but also the beginning of the next.
Advice for Future Makers
For students just starting out, Hyewon offers simple but powerful advice: “Keep creating. Don’t isolate yourself. Use the facilities, talk about your work, and collaborate. You’ll learn so much from each other.”
And perhaps most importantly: “Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Just start making.”
