Ohio State Design graduate student Yeoleum Choi received international recognition this summer for her thesis project, Layers in History, which was featured at two of the world's most prestigious animation and computer graphics events.

 

In June 2026, Choi was selected as a student presenter at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival's International Animation Film Market (MIFA), widely recognized as one of the most influential gatherings in the global animation industry. There, she presented Layers in History and shared insights from her production process in a session exploring the integration of artificial intelligence within a 3D animation pipeline designed to achieve a stop-motion aesthetic.

 

During her presentation, Choi discussed how emerging technologies can be incorporated thoughtfully into creative practice, emphasizing AI as a tool that supports artistic decision-making rather than replacing it. Audience members noted the unique approach, highlighting the project's careful balance between technological innovation and traditional animation craftsmanship.

 

Just one month later, Layers in History was screened as part of the SIGGRAPH 2026 Computer Animation Festival (CAF), one of the most respected showcases for computer graphics, animation, and digital storytelling. The selection placed Choi's work alongside projects from major studios and professional production teams from around the world.

 

For Choi, the experience represented a significant milestone in her academic and creative journey. As a solo student project, Layers in History stood out for its distinctive visual approach and its exploration of how AI can be used to strengthen, rather than diminish, individual artistic voice. The film was recognized for combining emerging technologies with a deeply personal creative vision while maintaining the authenticity and craft of computer animation.

 

The back-to-back selections at Annecy and SIGGRAPH underscore both the quality of Choi's work and the growing impact of Ohio State Design students on the international stage. Through research, experimentation, and creative practice, projects like Layers in History demonstrate how designers and animators can thoughtfully engage with new technologies while continuing to push the boundaries of storytelling.

 

The Department of Design congratulates Yeoleum Choi on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to seeing where her work will lead next.