“For the artist who is not conscious of the meaning of life is unlikely to be capable of making any coherent statement in the language of his own art.”
This profound insight from filmmaker Andrei Tarkovsky resonates deeply with Li Wenyu, an animation director and teacher at Sichuan University’s College of Arts.
Li, who directed the animated film “Ran Bi Wa” selected at the Berlin International Film Festival, believes that authentic art springs from a deep engagement with life. “The most impactful works are those distilled from personal experiences,” he shares.
For Li, teaching and creating are intertwined journeys. He encourages his students to immerse themselves in the world around them, stating, “To truly master the craft of art, one should first become a poet of life.”
Li’s approach emphasizes that art isn’t just about technique or aesthetics but about conveying genuine emotion and insight drawn from one’s own life. By living fully and observing keenly, artists can infuse their work with authenticity that resonates with audiences.
Through his work, Li hopes to inspire a new generation of animators to find their unique voices by connecting their art with the essence of their experiences.
