“What’s up Next?” is a series of articles and interviews meant to better showcase the trajectories of our Next Talents.
We are meeting the 2025-2026 generation in two key moments: at the start of their trajectory – focussing on finding out more about the artists and what they expect from the program, and at the end of their course, discussing the things they picked up on the way.
With this first interview we are introducing you to 3D artist and animation filmmaker Eddy Wu.
Cheng Tse (Eddy) Wu is a Taiwanese 3D artist and animation filmmaker living in the Netherlands. His work gently uncovers untold, deeply personal stories that resonate with universal emotions. In 2024, he was grateful to receive the Animation Talent Award from the Keep an Eye Foundation, which supports the development of his next short film.
We asked Eddy to tell us a bit more about himself. “I’m originally from Taiwan, where I studied Communication Design during my bachelor’s. Throughout that time, I explored a wide range of media, from graphic design and installation art to animated shorts. After graduating, I worked as a 3D motion designer at a creative studio in Taiwan, where I focused on commercial animation projects.
I later moved to the Netherlands to pursue an MA in Animation at St. Joost School of Art & Design. During my master’s, I started exploring documentary storytelling in animation, which opened up a new direction for my creative practice.
My works span across fiction shorts, commercial motion graphic design, and immersive experiences, and now I’m developing an animated documentary short.”
When it came to selecting a project close to his heart, Eddy didn’t hesitate: “Immature, my MA graduation film.
It’s an animated documentary that explores themes of self-exploration and body image through the story of a transgender gay man.
The film was inspired by my former flatmate. I had witnessed his transition firsthand, and although our experiences were very different, I realised we shared many of the same feelings around identity, shame, and self-acceptance. It was the first time I told someone else’s story, which made the process incredibly intimate and transformative.
Immature was my first step into animated documentary, and it opened up a whole new creative path for me. It’s a format that lets me tell honest stories while still expressing them in a gentle and imaginative way. And I’m excited to keep exploring it.
What made this project truly meaningful was that people reached out to share how the film resonated with them. Creating that kind of emotional connection is at the heart of why I make films.”
Eddy further elaborates about the things distinguishing him as an artist: “What really sets me apart as a creator is both my intention and my storytelling style.
My intention is to connect people, to build emotional bridges through my work. I believe sometimes change begins with a feeling that stays with you. So I want to plant a small seed inside the viewer, something that grows quietly, shifting their perspective over time. And if, one day, that seed helps them act with more empathy, speak up, or see things differently, then this film will have done its part.
I’m drawn to poetic and metaphorical storytelling with 3D animation technique. I love the process of translating feelings into personal metaphors, using symbolic visuals and gentle narratives to express complex emotions and subtle aspects of the human experience. I try to explore sensitive or difficult topics in a way that the audience can feel, not just see from the outside.”
We were curious to find out what inspires Eddy. “As a queer person growing up in Taiwan, I witnessed firsthand the societal shifts, especially around the legalisation of gay marriage. Seeing activists tirelessly fight for decades and gradually change public perceptions of sexuality and human rights has had a deep influence on me. It made me believe that real change is possible, as long as we keep the conversation going. This personal experience inspires my work and fuels my passion for telling stories that reflect social change and human rights.
One artist who deeply inspires me is director Tsai Ming-liang. His films like The Hole, The River, Stray Dogs, and Face uniquely capture the subtle emotions of loneliness, alienation, and the search for connection within the spaces we inhabit. He use slow pacing, long takes, and poetic imagery creates a meditative atmosphere that invites the audience to feel the inner worlds of marginalised individuals. I resonate strongly with his portrayal of isolation and longing. His work inspires me to explore stories that go beyond surface narratives and touch on the internal struggles and humanity behind social identities.”
We asked Eddy to tell us how he found out about Next: “I first heard about the Next Talent program during my Master’s study at St. Joost.
After graduation, I knew I wanted to continue learning, especially as I started transitioning into freelance work and developing myself as an animation filmmaker. I realized there were still many things I needed to learn, especially in terms of business, production, and navigating the creative industry in the Netherlands. At times, this lack of practical knowledge made me feel insecure and unsure of my path.
What really drew me to this program is how it focuses on both practical and personal development. It feels like the perfect environment to help me grow, define my direction, and find a more grounded position within the industry.”
When it comes to his plans for the program, Eddy explains: “Through the Next Talent program, I hope to become more confident as a creative professional by gaining more knowledge, learning from experienced mentors, and better understanding the industry.
I would like to clarify my goals and build a concrete plan for my future, especially as I develop my career as a freelance 3D designer and animation filmmaker.
I’m currently developing my debut animated short film, a 3D animated documentary that explores personal and emotional narratives. Through this program, I hope to strengthen my skills as a director, not only in visual storytelling but also in areas like interview techniques, research, funding strategies, and ethical collaboration.
At the same time, I want to learn how to balance personal, socially driven projects with commercial work, and grow into a more independent, sustainable creative practice.”
To wrap things up, we asked Eddy who would be his dream mentor: “If I could have a mentoring session with anyone in the world through the Next Talent program, I would choose:
David Lynch – I admire his surreal, poetic storytelling and how he explores the subconscious and emotions in such a unique way. His work inspires me to push boundaries and explore deeper layers of meaning in animation. I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of building my own symbolic language in storytelling, and I’d love to ask him: Where do your symbols come from? How does he create such powerful imagery that feels both personal and universal?
Hirokazu Kore-eda – I deeply respect his sensitive and humanistic approach to storytelling, focusing on everyday life and subtle emotions. His ability to capture vulnerability and empathy resonates with my own artistic vision. I’d love to learn how he builds emotional tension with such restraint, and how he develop a concept.
Albert Mielgo – I admire his bold visual style and storytelling style.. His work bridges art and storytelling in a way that feels poetic and subtle, but also bold and expressive. I would love to know about his creative process and the script writing process.”
He mesmerised us with his works, but talking with Eddy also made us realise what an incredibly artistic mind he has. We can’t wait to see how his trajectory and projects will further unfold.