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Animation Mentor:
What inspired you to become an animator?
Don Kim:
I’ve always been into drawing and creating stories from an early age. But, I actually started down a path towards architecture and engineering before I decided to pursue animation. I think the turning point for me was after I saw Beauty and the Beast – it was such a well-crafted story and the animation was simply amazing.
Animation Mentor:
If you could do one thing differently on your journey to becoming an animator, what would it be?
Don Kim:
I think I would have liked to continue to work in traditional animation a little longer before getting into 3D. I actually miss working with a pencil and paper and I was so encouraged and inspired to see the great traditional work in the recently released Enchanted.
Animation Mentor:
What was your first animation job?
Don Kim:
My first job in the industry was with Walt Disney Animation – as an assistant animator – I learned so much in my first year at Disney and had a lot of fun along the way.
Animation Mentor:
Who would you consider your mentor to be in animation?
Don Kim:
There are a handful of people that helped me through the years – but I feel my stay at Blue Sky Studios really helped me to fine-tune my craft and look at animation/performance through a different eye. Mike Thurmeier was a great help to me in getting to that point.
Animation Mentor:
Who is your favorite character that you've animated and why?
Don Kim:
I would have to say Big Weld from Robots – he was a challenging character to bring to life – since he was really just a big ball with a head and arms – but he was a blast to animate and Mel Brooks did a fantastic job with his lines.
Animation Mentor:
How has the Animation Mentor experience been for you so far?
Don Kim:
It’s been a great experience. I’ve been so encouraged to see all of the bright-eyed students at this school really put their heart and soul into it. The work that has come out of this school has been no less than spectacular.
Animation Mentor:
What is your favorite Animation Mentor tool?
Don Kim:
I would say the use of eCritiques are such a great invention in that it allows students to get individual feedback on their work which is easily accessible to them at anytime or anywhere on the planet. |
