Chinese animation (i.e. cartoons, animated films, comic books, etc.) illustrate a significant component of Chinese culture and politics, Depending on the time period, certain techniques developed specifically to highlight a unique style of Chinese animation. Te Wei, a Chinese artist and animator, most notably utilized these styles in his works (i.e. ink-wash animation style influenced by the Chinese painter Qi Baishi). Additionally, the actual content of these “political cartoons” carried several undertones that reflected the lifestyle in Chinese society during the time. Certain time periods produced animated films that mimicked the West meanwhile aimed to establish a distinctly Chinese national identity.

Since China’s animation made its debut on the world movie circle, it has won 57 international awards and more than 200 local prizes. Its unique artistic style is known as the “Chinese School” worldwide.

We will look at several time periods using one or two animations to demonstrate how the culture and politics at that time greatly influenced the animation at the time as well.