Meet Thirada “Tida” Kangwankiattichai, a Thai layout artist at Walt Disney Animation Studios, whose passion and determination help shape the magic of Moana 2 (2024) and beyond.

Magic appears in small moments, when eyes light up, when a scene feels real, when a sparkle on screen quietly pulls you into another world. In animation, especially with Disney films, those subtle details create wonder and turn a story into something unforgettable.

That magic never appears on its own. It comes from the people behind the scenes who pour care, skill and heart into every frame. One of them is Thirada “Tida” Kangwankiattichai, a Thai layout artist at Walt Disney Animation Studios. In this story, we take a closer look at her journey and her path onto the global animation stage. 

Consider this a light, inspiring read to enjoy during your New Year’s Day break.

A Spark Within Herself 

Born and raised in Bangkok, Tida grew up surrounded by films and the world of cinema. From an early age animation sparked her curiosity, while drawing and painting became companions throughout her childhood. That early love for visual storytelling continues to shape the way she works today. 

Although creativity always played a role in her life, Tida never planned on a career in animation. After graduating from Nawaminthrachinuthit Bodindecha School, she chose a more structured path, pursuing a degree in management engineering and logistics at Silpakorn University even while her love for visual storytelling remained close at heart.

The turning point came after her move to Vancouver, Canada. There she discovered creative roles that were less visible in Thailand, within a city known for its thriving CGI industry. This new environment opened her eyes to possibilities she had never considered before.

In 2014, Tida enrolled in the 3D Animation and Visual Effects programme at Vancouver Film School. Despite her background in engineering, her passion for art and animation led the way. During her studies, she took a class in 3D Visualisation which focused on camera angles and scene composition. It laid the foundation for the career path she would later follow.

After completing her studies, Tida began working as a layout artist in Vancouver. In 2022, when Walt Disney Animation Studios opened a new studio in the city, she saw an opportunity and decided to apply. At the time Disney was developing Moana 2 and the timing felt right. 

A Craft That Sparks Wonder in Others

In animation everything starts with a storyboard; simple 2D sketches that outline the story. Then the layout artist steps in and gives those drawings a sense of space, depth and perspective. Scenes move into 3D, characters find their place and the camera finally knows where to look.

Think of the layout artist as a location scout for an imaginary world. Instead of searching for real streets or landscapes, they build them, choosing the perfect angle, framing the moment and making sure each scene feels just right before the magic moves on.

Courtesy of Disney

One of Tida’s most notable works came after she joined Disney as a layout artist, contributing to Moana 2. In the film islands, rolling seas, shifting sand and living greenery feel vividly real, while still holding onto the enchantment of animation.

For each shot Tida begins with the character’s emotion when shaping movement and camera angles. She builds every scene around how the characters feel, using rhythm, perspective, camera placement and light to guide the viewer’s attention and strengthen the story. 

Courtesy of Disney

This approach is especially evident in her work on Moana 2, most notably in the design of Maui’s first appearance in the sequel. As a layout artist, Tida shapes the scene to draw the audience into a sense of mystery. The glowing circular form becomes the dominant presence on screen, occupying much of the frame, while the camera moves in harmony with the character’s motion. By using a third-person point of view, she restricts what the audience can see, deepening the intrigue and allowing the moment to unfold with quiet tension. The film also introduces a formidable presence, the Storm God, whose vast scale and power require balance to convey grandeur without losing the sense of magic. 

A Dream Drawn Beyond Borders

Tida reflects the passion of someone who stays true to what she loves. Working at Walt Disney Animation Studios is a path many might find intimidating, yet she continued forward with patience and steady determination. Rather than rushing the journey, she focused on learning, refining her skills, and gaining experience step by step. 

It is encouraging to see creative voices from Thailand and Southeast Asia contributing to Disney’s animated stories, which are shared and loved around the world. 

Here is a story that may give you a new lens when you rewatch Moana, one that invites audiences in Thailand to feel a pride in seeing a talent of Thai heritage helping shape a story that travels far beyond home.

Courtesy of Disney