Meet Christina Park | Storyboard Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Christina Park and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christina, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Growing up, I spent countless hours watching animated films with my family and friends, immersing myself in their colorful, fictional worlds. These heartwarming films brought me endless joy and inspired me to draw my favorite characters, sparking my artistic journey. As I got older, people often asked when I would grow out of my “animation phase,” insisting that it was just for kids. But I couldn’t let go of the happiness these films gave me. One day, I discovered that working in the animation industry could be a career and that there were professional artists who brought these delightful films and series to life. That realization lit a fire in me: I wanted to tell my own stories through animation and inspire kids just like how the films I watched as a kid had inspired me. I also wanted to show that animation isn’t just for kids; it’s a medium that people of all ages can enjoy and learn from. This was the moment, I knew that was the reason why I wanted to pursue a career in the animation industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I want to pursue a career in storyboarding, a passion I discovered while attending Ringling College of Art and Design. After meeting fellow artists and hearing talks from industry professionals, I was captivated by the idea of creating compelling shot compositions that could bring a story to life on film. It felt like stepping into the director’s role, choosing the best camera angles to tell the story. The role of a storyboard artist combines my love for animation and drawing, which brings me so much joy. However, starting out in storyboarding wasn’t easy—I knew very little about it until my sophomore year in college. To get better, I reached out to professional storyboard artists for feedback and dedicated every summer and winter break to improving my portfolio. It was through consistent hard work that I started seeing real progress in my skills. I’ve learned that the more effort you put into refining your craft, the better you become. The hard work really does pay off. I graduated in May 2024 and am now actively seeking a job to pursue my dreams. It isn’t easy now but I will take my advice and keep on trying. I want others to know that if you are passionate about something and work diligently to improve, you can achieve your goals.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In addition to drawing, I find great pleasure in hiking. There’s something incredibly refreshing about being outdoors, surrounded by nature, and breathing in the clean, crisp air. If I had to pick one place to recommend for a hike, it would be Runyon Canyon, a popular trail in Los Angeles with stunning views of the city. Alternatively, Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park offers a different kind of beauty with its dramatic rock formations, making it an unforgettable place to explore. When I’m not out in nature, I like to visit Korea Town. It’s a vibrant neighborhood that brings me back to my roots and immerses me in Korean culture. Walking through its streets, I’m greeted with the rich aromas of Korean cuisine and the sounds of lively conversations. There are so many things to do, from enjoying authentic Korean barbecue to singing my heart out in a karaoke room. It’s a place where I can connect with my heritage and share it with friends, giving them a taste of the culture that has shaped me.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The people I most want to thank are my parents, who have been my greatest supporters since the very start of my artistic journey. Their unwavering encouragement is why I felt confident pursuing a career doing what I love. Without them, I wouldn’t have had the courage to make a living out of my passion. I also want to express my gratitude to my little sister, Catherine Park, who has been by my side from day one. She’s listened to my ideas and offered endless support throughout my life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family. In addition to that, I want to thank Ringling College of Art and Design, the animation school I attended for college. This rigorous program helped me discover my path in animation and connected me with others who share my passion. Ringling was a challenging place, but it prepared me for the journey ahead in the animation industry.

Website: https://www.christinaparkportfolio.com/

Instagram: @chris_draws15

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-seung-yeon-park-90591a15a/