Irene Xinyi Li
U.S.-based multidisciplinary filmmaker and designerFounder & CCO, EON Studio
My work spans AI filmmaking, 3D animation and spatial design - united by a focus on worldbuilding and visually rich storytelling.
My Philosophy
For me, storytelling isn't just about narrative—it's about atmosphere, emotion, and the feeling a world can create. I embrace experimentation and ambiguity, gravitating toward projects that challenge expectations and expand what a story can be.
When I create, my intention is not simply to present images, but to craft an experience. What matters most to me is whether the work resonates with the viewer. No matter what they ultimately feel—calm, joy, nostalgia, reflection, or even discomfort—I hope to leave them with something meaningful. Even the smallest shift in how someone thinks or feels transforms them from a mere viewer into an active participant in the story.
My Journey
Growing up in China before moving to the United States for my education, my creative path has always been about exploration. At the University of Wisconsin–Madison, I studied Communication Arts (Film & Media) alongside Interior Architecture. I later earned a Master of Architecture and a Master of Science in entertainment at UCLA, exploring spatial and digital environments. While these fields might seem distinct, over the years I realized they were all teaching me the exact same thing: how to construct immersive worlds where stories can fully exist.
Awards & Honor
- 2026Dreamina + Annecy International Animation Film Festival, AI Animation, Official Selection
- 2026The 47th Annual Telly Awards, Craft-Use of Generative AI, Bronze Winner
- 2026BAIFF - Burano Artificial Intelligence Film Festival, AI Animation & AI Music Video, Nominee
- 2026AI Film Awards Vertical Edition, AI Animation Awards, Official Selection
- 2026Neu Wave AI Film Festival, AI TV Commercial & Music Video, Finalist; AI Short Film, Official Selection
- 2026Stuff MX Film Festival, Music Video Competition, Award Winner
- 2025Chroma Award, Music Video Sponsor Award & Bronze Award in Rock Category
- 2025Seoul International AI Film Festival, Music Video, Award Winner & Best Animation Short, Honorable Mention
- 2025Pulse of Animation Festival, Best Directing in Animation & Best Social or Environmental Theme in Animation, Award Winner + Best AI-Assisted Animation, Official Selection
- 2025Tianjin International Academic Film Festival, AI film section, Semi-Finalist
- 2025Short Stop International Film Festival, Music Video, Award Winner
- 2025Los Angeles Animation Festival, Children's Media & Music Video, Honorable Mention
- 2025Rome AI Festival, Best AI Animation, Honorable Mention
- 2024UCLA Graduated with distinction
- 2024UCLA Best Final Project
- 2021UCLA Full-ride admission fellowship
- 2020UW-Madison SOHE Nancy B. Forbes Opportunity Award