Ntxhi Chiv Yang is a part of the Fall 2018 incoming class to Minneapolis College of Art and Design. With a childhood full of doodling and television cartoons, it is no wonder she is following her calling in Animation. However, it hasn’t always been an obvious path for Ntxhi.

 

For a recent period of time, Ntxhi had been excelling in a law office, one of the line of works she was encouraged to pursue. “As a child, I watched cartoons that entertained me countless of times. I remember wanting to make my drawings move and come to life, but I didn’t know how to explain it, or that it was even a career,” described Ntxhi about her career discussions with her parents. It wasn’t until her reoccurring illustrations were noticed on paperwork in the law office that she would eventually be commissioned to create greeting cards. Eventually, she would return to her passion in art and animation.

 

As an artist fascinated and driven by the stories of characters, Ntxhi’s creative prompt submission consists of an evolving woman in motion. The character takes on new clothing, exploring layers of her identity and embracing her outcome. This creation of work is reflective of what she aspires to see in the greater community: inclusion of diverse experiences. As she sets goals to move closer to her dream of joining the likes of Disney, Pixar, and Cartoon Network, she hopes that characters of unheard voices will be seen and heard in the filming industry. After all, her art is intended for entertainment that may open windows to discoveries and learning opportunities. “The best kind of products are the ones that entice you and move you. Animation achieves this through storytelling, using characters and creative freedom to set a plot, time, and experiences.” This is where higher education is important to developing her craft. “Having the talent and ability is one part and having the skills and proper knowledge of the processes is another part.”

 

As a student leaving behind her path of expectations and stepping on to the unpaved, but destined, path of her childhood dreams, Ntxhi offers this advice to students and individuals experiencing similar contemplations: “Don’t chase others’ dreams. Do what you like and put your all in it, rather than half. Keep asking yourself important questions to come to your inner passion.”
 

Upon being selected as the 2018 Revived Scholarship recipient, Ntxhi says “[It] has already helped me in more ways than one[...] it has helped me with building confidence-- the fact that others believe there is potential in me.” Ntxhi hopes to see other creators in the community flourish from the benefits of this scholarship.

 

Revived congratulates Ntxhi Chiv Yang and wishes her much luck and success in her artistic growth and academic career.