Through her practice, Grace Chen explores the relationship between femininity, feminism and magic within Japan's 'Magical Girl' genre. Central to her discussion, Chen considers how 'Kawaii' and 'Shojo' aesthetics construct and validate conventional feminine ideals with female power. Framed within the broader context of anime's patriarchal industry, Chen further explores the influence of the male gaze. By appropriating the genre in 2D animation - the medium which 'Magical Girls' are native to - Chen challenges the construct through her use of narrative as well as visual material.