Karen-Happuch is a Ghanaian Animation Director, digital illustrator, UI/UX Designer, and founder of KHPH studios and KHPH customs. She is also skilled in 2D animation, 3D environment design, and Editing.
Karen-Happuch was part of the animators selected to represent Ghana at the just-ended Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France.
She attended Wesley Girls’ High School where she studied Visual Arts and further went to National Film and Television Institution, Accra Ghana to study Animation.
On her career journey, she has worked on portraits, animated ads, digital illustrations, explainer videos on commission, and animated series for kids in collaboration with shine kid’s devotional. She has also worked on personal short animated film projects.
She says her animation skills grew out of her love for drawing and painting at a young age.
“I love painting, there’s something unexplainably relaxing about painting. The empty canvas, the apron, the easel, mixing paints, each brush stroke, and finally the excitement and satisfaction of seeing your imagination come alive. It’s just priceless.” She said
She also revealed one of her biggest challenges is being a female in a male-dominated industry.
“I was the only girl in my class and in the first studio I worked with, I always had to try so hard to fit in.” And when I started my own studio, getting people to collaborate on projects have been challenging.
It’s always as though my talent, skill set, and expertise aren’t enough. I always have to put in extra work to fit in.
According to data from the Women in Animation (WIA), as of 2019, the number of female executives in animation rose to more than half, and 39% in TV. However, female directors make up 3% for animated films, while women of color make up only 1%.
She expressed appreciation to the France Embassy in Ghana for giving her the opportunity to be part of the Ghanaian representatives at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France.
“Being part of the Annecy Animated film festival was a great experience and my passion for animation was rekindled.
“It was an inspiring experience, meeting so many people from all over the world. I was exposed to diverse animation styles and new ways of telling stories.
The young creative is also confident about the future of the Animation industry in Ghana.
“Someone once asked me, “is there even an animation industry in Ghana? Yes! There is, we aren’t many but y’all should watch out for the Ghanaian Animation Industry.”
For her future plans, she said “It is my dream to see my studio expand to the level where I can employ so many animators and artists, provide good working conditions and befitting salaries. Many talented artists are unemployed, the few who are, are underpaid.”
Karen-Happuch is also passionate about women empowerment; and looks forward to supporting young girls through education and inspiring young female creatives.
She is open to collaborations, investors, contracts, and other creative opportunities.
The young talent is currently studying Computer Science at the University of the People and simultaneously pursuing another degree in IT at Ghana Communication Technology University.
