On My Radar: Renee Zhan

What the most creative advertising idea you’ve seen recently? 

I loved Steve [Gee] and Essie [May]’s Amazon Music Christmas ad! The mixed media techniques were so wild and fun. It also seems to have inspired a big wave of mixed media ads that have been coming out, which I think is a really great trend and gives more artists opportunities for work! Double win.

What website(s) do you use most regularly? 

I spend a lot of time on YouTube. I really enjoy niche video channels like a Japanese man who butchers and cooks luxurious fish, and a guy who backpacks with his two dogs and goats in Utah. 

What’s the most recent piece of tech that you’ve bought? 

I just bought a Wacom 24 inch Cintiq [below]. It’s a HUGE upgrade from the 13 inch Cintiq I’ve been using for almost eight years now. I got it with the Wacom Flex Arm and it’s been really good for my back and posture to be able to use it in many different positions.

What product could you not live without?

I’m afraid to say it’s my iPhone.

What’s the best film you’ve seen over the last year?

I just saw The Northman and I thought it was so brilliant. Bold, uncompromising, and just absolutely bonkers. Also my dream is to make an animated musical with Bjork, so it was really great to see her in another acting role!

What film do you think everyone should have seen?

The Sound of Music; I just think it’s a perfect expression of music, joy, loss and love. 

What’s your preferred social media platform? 

Instagram! It’s the most visual, and I follow a lot of great artists and cats.

What’s your favourite TV show?

The Dark Crystal reboot on Netflix was amazing. The craftsmanship and storytelling in that show were just the best of the best.

What’s your favourite podcast? 

I really like The Moth. It’s nice to hear a bit about other people’s lives while I’m alone in the dark animating. 

What show/exhibition has most inspired you recently?

I recently saw the Louise Bourgeois exhibition at the Southbank Centre. I just love her use of materials, form and bodies to convey emotion.

What’s the most significant change you’ve witnessed in the industry since you started working in it?

I haven’t been working in the industry for too long, but one positive change I’ve seen has been a huge influx of women and people of colour directors, artists and on-screen talent.