Hollywood Shines with Young Talent: Student Artists “Co-Produce” the Prelude for Film "The Gift"
- myarteducation
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
On November 3, 2025, The Legion Theater in Hollywood hosted the global premiere of the film "The Gift." Amidst the glamour of the red carpet, a group of elegantly dressed young faces stood out – they were the student team from the West California Academy of Art and Design (WCAAD), the creators of the film's monumental 40-foot art scroll.
Standing alongside renowned directors and actors, these young artists received a profound and direct affirmation of their artistic practice through this symbolic ceremony of honor.
"The Gift," meticulously crafted over twelve years by Chinese-American director Sunny Zhao, tells the unforgettable journey of two children connected by a mysterious piano across continents, leading them through music, talent, growth, and transformation. It is scheduled for theatrical release on November 7.
Introducing the visual and spiritual themes of The Gift, this 40-foot art scroll unfolded during the end credits as a Prelude of the film, becoming a highlight of the premiere.
Interwoven with music and imagery, the students' work seemed to come alive – its colors intensified, its emotions deepened, resonating and elevating alongside the film's narrative.
"I feel thrilled to see our students’ artwork on the big screen," WCAAD principal Lei Wang said, "Seeing these young artists communicate with esteemed figures from the real arts and culture world, I think this is the most moving manifestation of artistic legacy."
The premiere was indeed a night of glory for the student artists.
Director Sunny Zhao, long committed to filmmaking and philanthropy, collaborated with the Lights of Love Foundation to provide opportunities for young students to participate in the film's creative process. At the premiere, he specially thanked the WCAAD faculty and students, praising that the art scroll is not only as a prologue to the film's visual and spiritual themes but also for showcasing the creativity, passion, and teamwork of the young generation.
Executive producer Phoenix Han also expressed gratitude: "This collective effort is profoundly meaningful, and the honor belongs to every participant."
Since September 2025, 26 students from the WCAAD Portfolio Preparation Class have taken active part in the group art creation for "The Gift".
To better capture the essence of The Gift, the instructors and students previewed the film and were deeply moved.
“After watching The Gift, I was deeply moved — by the sequences, the style, and the overall composition. At times, I even felt as though I had become another character in the film.” Omar Gallegos, WCAAD Vice Principal said, “ The film made me reflect on my own life, and on what’s happening in our world today. It’s the kind of movie we truly need right now — one that speaks to humanity,without relying on heavy technology or CGI distractions.”
Participating students include (in no particular order): Zimo Bian, Zixuan (Yoyo) Ren, Jenny You, Jerry Deng, Stella Wang, Camille Cao, Jacqueline Zhuang, Yi Cai, Maria Liu, Weixi Liu, Sophie Li, Alucard Gallegos, Magnus Gallegos, Sophia Kligys, Aline Tran, Selene Wang, Venita Ye, Angela Liu, Xinyi (Sophia) Shao, Xinyu (Emily) Wu, Minghui Xu, Megan Lin, Mingyi Xu, Grace Yang, Meihe Huang, Charcie Chan。
For the students, this group project provided not only an exceptional opportunity for artistic expression but also a comprehensive exercise in professional collaboration. Furthermore, such volunteer engagement in artistic creation will substantially enhance the students' college applications, strengthening their profiles as they prepare for higher education.
"This event was truly marvelous!” Camille Cao's mother shared, “Thank you Ms.Wang and Omar for your dedicated guidance. This beautiful evening provided the children and parents with a great opportunity to experience the Hollywood red carpet moment together – this will be a memory to cherish for a lifetime."
Aline Tran’ mother also wrote a thankful note to WCAAD: “Special thanks to Ms.Wang and Omar for guiding and inspiring my 16-year-old daughter to take part in the Hollywood premiere of The Gift. It is your long time dedication that has made this extraordinary experience possible.”
From the paint-splattered canvas to the star-studded red carpet, from the collaborative classroom to the awe-inspiring theater – this step transcended not just physical distance, but also represented an elevation from practice to recognition, from learning to showcasing. These young artists have proven with their talent: the brushes of youth can equally compose a moving overture for a world-class screen story.
“This film is not just about music; it’s about the emotional echoes an object can carry across time. A piano is just wood, wire, and keys—until someone breathes life into it. From that moment it comes alive. It has memory, it records, it becomes a witness of greatness and a collaborator. It becomes your partner in crime…It carries you to your destiny. I’ve always believed that creativity is not just something we do, but something we inherit, something that travels, something can pass
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