Meet Samar Chen | Layout & Previsualization Artist

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

Hi Samar, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
For me, curiosity is everything when it comes to my creative process as a layout artist. It’s like the spark that keeps me going and constantly pushes me to explore new horizons. Being naturally curious allows me to dive headfirst into different techniques, styles, and storytelling approaches. I’m always on the lookout for fresh ideas and innovative ways to bring life to my work. For example, while working as a Layout Artist for the animated film, “Strange World” for Walt Disney Animation Studios, I spent a lot of time studying and analyzing visual references that suit the film best. Additionally, while working as a Layout Artist for Disney’s upcoming film “Wish”, I consistently draw inspiration from old Disney films and art pieces.

During my free time, I also seek opportunities to engage in independent short film projects. I’ve already worked on 6 highly acclaimed animated short films that have been featured in several notable film festivals, and each project brings me a new set of perspectives and a unique working experience. As long as I stay curious, I know I’ll continue to explore and evolve in this exciting world of animation.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have an engineering background, but because I couldn’t abandon my love for animation and storytelling, I made the decision to come to LA and immerse myself in the entertainment industry. However, I have never regretted having that engineering experience. In fact, it has helped me excel in my field by honing my technical skills, which are often better than those of many artists.

Most of time, a movie requires layout artists who possess both technical skills and artistic ability. While I was working as a Layout Artist for “New Gods: Yang Jian” by Light Chaser Animation Studios, I was assigned a scene that had thousands of assets, with variants. Managing and tracking all these elements presents numerous challenges and is extremely essential to the successful completion of an animated feature. Without them, the audience would become confused.

When working on independent animated short projects, I strive to achieve a deeper thematic expression. Therefore, as a lead Layout Artist, I put a lot of thought into the artistic development of different themes involved in these productions. For instance, “In Tandem” tells the story of a girl bidding farewell to her father and embarking on her own journey of self-growth; while “Morry” revolves around a headless shop mannequin that stumbles upon a captivating discovery, forcing her to make a choice between becoming a real but immobile person or remaining a free-spirited mannequin. Both of these animated shorts received extensive recognition in the film industry and were selected into prestigious film festivals such as, Cartoon Club International Festival of Animation Cinema 2022, Hilltop Film Festival, Cinemaking International Film Festival 2022, Neum Animated Film Festival 2022, Fine Cut Festival of Films, and more.

Each film I participate in presents its own challenges, but through facing these challenges, I have learned a great deal. The greatest joy for me is seeing the audience’s reactions either at film festivals or in theaters. Recently, I had the opportunity to work as a layout artist on another short film, “Midnight Shift,” which tells the story about a convenience store worker on the night shift who falls asleep and has unsettling dreams. The film was selected to be featured in Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions and was recognized with a Best Animated Film Cinematography Award by the Los Angeles Cinematography Awards (LACA). After a screening, an audience member expressed how deeply moved and healed they felt. It was at that moment I realized that the world cannot be without storytellers.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My best friend is from the rainy southern part of China, so I believe the sunny weather and palm trees in LA would be quite a novelty for her. If she ever comes to visit, I’m taking her straight to Long Beach for some epic whale-watching and dolphin-spotting action. We’ll walk barefoot on the sandy shores, feeling the ocean breeze in our hair. After enjoying the sunset, we can have seafood paella at a nearby Tapas restaurant, gobbling up delicious treats from the sea. I’d also like to bring her to Disneyland, where we’ll scream our lungs out on thrilling rides, pose for selfies, and watching the fireworks. And if we luck out and catch the Lion King musical, it’ll be the best ending of this trip.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The path to pursuing art has been paved with the unwavering support and dedication of my family. Their generosity and diligence have played a crucial role in every opportunity that has come my way. And a big shout-out to my studio. I couldn’t ask for a better bunch of colleagues and friends. We go on sketching trips together, geek out over movies and books. I’m grateful for the friendly atmosphere and the chance to be surrounded by like-minded people who share my passion for creativity. I cannot overstate how fortunate I feel to have such a supportive family and an inspiring work environment. They have both played pivotal roles in shaping my artistic journey, and I am deeply grateful for their presence in my life.

Website: samarmchen.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samar-chen/