JOURNAL ARTICLE

Dematerialization and Digital Ink-Painting Aesthetics in Contemporary Chinese Animation: Redefining the 'National Style' in Deep Sea (2023).

  • Published In: Animation (17468477), 2025, v. 20, n. 1. P. 72 1 of 3

  • Database: Film & Television Literature Index with Full Text 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Whyke, Thomas William; Zhu, Zhaoyu; Wang, Aiqing 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines the evolving concept of the "national style" in Chinese ink-painting animation through a detailed case study of the 2023 digital film *Deep Sea*, directed by Tian Xiaopeng. It highlights the film's innovative use of a three-dimensional (3D) "particle-ink technology" that digitally reinterprets traditional Chinese ink-painting aesthetics, blending them with global animation influences such as Disney/Pixar's style. The analysis reveals tensions between preserving cultural authenticity and embracing modern, international animation techniques, reflecting broader debates about cultural identity, technological innovation, and globalization in contemporary Chinese animation. The study argues that the future of Chinese animation lies in negotiating this balance, fostering a hybridized "national style" that is both rooted in tradition and open to global artistic exchange.

Additional Information

  • Source:Animation (17468477). 2025/03, Vol. 20, Issue 1, p72
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Visual Arts
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:1746-8477
  • DOI:10.1177/17468477251324060
  • Accession Number:184137783
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Animation (17468477) is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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