I recently attended a lecture by my teacher Haemin Ko, who provided detailed insights into the animation industry market in the UK, particularly highlighting the prevalence of freelance work for recent graduates due to the abundance of short animation projects. I also conducted research on the Chinese market and discovered some information about salary levels and current trends, which I will share in this post.
- Job opportunities and freelancing in the UK: According to my teacher’s presentation, the animation industry in the UK is dominated by short film projects, which often require freelancers. This means that many graduates initially find themselves working as freelancers, gaining experience and building their portfolios. While this can be a valuable stepping stone, it may also present challenges in terms of job stability and financial security.
- Salary levels in China: In my research on the Chinese animation industry, I found that the salary levels vary depending on factors such as experience, skill level, and the specific company or project. As an emerging industry in China, the animation sector is witnessing steady growth, and the demand for skilled professionals is increasing. The salary range for animators in China currently falls between approximately £340 and £2,830 per month, depending on various factors. It’s important to note that salaries may vary in different cities and regions within China.
In the dynamic animation industry, freelancers have the freedom to choose their preferred style and work from anywhere in the world, transcending geographical boundaries. This flexibility has sparked an idea in my mind—to potentially return to China or another country while maintaining connections with international animation projects. As the only child in my family, geographical limitations have been a significant concern for me. On one hand, I yearn for the opportunity to work on international projects and collaborate with exceptional teams to create animation in its purest form. However, such opportunities are scarce in China, with a focus on large-scale film projects or children’s animated series, while the chances to work on intriguing short animations are relatively limited. Therefore, I contemplate the possibility of becoming a university professor in China, where I can teach while simultaneously seeking freelance opportunities with studios worldwide that require my expertise.