From drawing worlds to directing them, animator Wan Heidi ups her game
The ‘Build-It Blocks’ director says young creatives need strong fundamentals, adaptability and the courage to leave their comfort zones.
Wan Heidi Sofia, a 31-year-old Malaysian artist, has transitioned from concept art to directing an animated series titled 'Build-It Blocks'. This move required her to take on new responsibilities such as leading a team, shaping scripts, and overseeing the entire production process. Formerly a concept artist on local animated series like 'Omar & Hana' and 'Mina Mila', Wan Heidi initially questioned her readiness for directing but ultimately accepted the challenge.
Her latest project introduces children aged three to five to various professions, including those often overlooked in children's entertainment, such as parcel delivery workers and recycling personnel. The series also incorporates lessons from authentic hadiths and Islamic values, focusing on themes like good manners and cooperation. The production, which involved around 20 local talents and collaboration with Piapi Animation Studio in Padang, Indonesia, was completed in a short span of a few months.
Artificial intelligence was integrated into the production process, but Wan Heidi cautioned against viewing it as a replacement for human talent, emphasizing that human judgement is still necessary to shape characters, emotions, and stories. She believes that animation programmes equip graduates with theoretical knowledge and technical training, but adaptability and continuous skill development are crucial for a sustainable career in the industry.
Wan Heidi aspires to direct a family-oriented animated feature film within the next five years and eventually teach others on using AI professionally.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
