Finding Inspiration at Disney Inspire Days
Disney Inspire Days, an annual event held in the spring, was more than inspiring for animators pursuing their life passion, especially for several Animation Mentor students who were invited to attend the event.
During the two-day event in Burbank, Calif., students heard talks and presentations from Disney animators, story artists, and visual development artists and met professional animators.
"I learned that one of the most important things while creating stories is believing in your characters and knowing who they are," said Miurika Valery, a recent graduate of Animation Mentor who lives in San Francisco.
Animation Mentor students found inspiration in many ways. Leon Gittens, an Animation Mentor graduate from the United Kingdom who recently started an apprenticeship program at Rhythm & Hues in El Segundo, Calif., says it was enlightening to hear animators like Bruce Smith and fellow Animation Mentor alumni talk animation.
"It was also inspiring to see other AMers like Malcon Pierce, Henry Sanchez and mentor Chad Sellers and be able to hang out with them for a while," Leon said.
Timo Berg of Guetersloh, Germany, said he was happy just walking around in the building.
"It was just amazing to walk around in the holy halls where the Disney magic happens," Timo said. "We had the chance to see the Animation Studios and of course Walt's ‘workroom' in the hat."
Matt Walker said the best part of Disney Inspire Days was making industry contacts.
"There are people there from all over the country, every great art school you can think of. It would be silly not to mingle and meet some new people. After all, the industry is small and there's a big chance that one day those very people will be your coworkers," said Walker, who lives in Sparks, Nevada.
"I had an amazing chance to hang out with a few Disney animators, and I had a great time. They are all really cool people as well as incredibly talented."
Animation Mentor staff found the event rewarding for the students and the school.
"These events are a win-win situation for everyone," said Suzanne Francois, student care manager at Animation Mentor. "It's motivating to see the students gain so much and being involved with the facilitation also keeps us very fresh from an educational perspective."
For some, there was no bigger motivation than seeing people like themselves fulfilling their goals while loving what they do.
"After Disney Inspire Days, I found myself more than happy being in animation and also excited that my career had just begun," said Miurika, who is working at Lightstream Animation Studios in Petaluma for a short project. "It's very possible that it might be a long road to reach the point where I'll obtain my dreams, but I know that I began after having heard the lectures and experiences at Disney Inspire Days. "
Being selected to attend the event was an honor itself.
"Although many have experienced the great magic and beauty of the great Disney animated films, not many people have a chance to see how the magic is made in the studios," said Issac Abarca, a recent graduate of Animation Mentor. "Being able to learn firsthand from some of the most talented artists in the world was inexplicable."
Animation Mentor Comes to SIGGRAPH 2010
Heading to SIGGRAPH?
Animation Mentor would like you to join us at SIGGRAPH 2010! We're hosting exclusive panels, networking opportunities and awesome animation tips from professional animators. And best of all, a Happy Hour party!
Animation Mentor Events
July 27, 2010
Animation Blockbuster Breakdown Panel
What: Watch top animation professionals break down eight complex shots from animated feature films you love!
When: July 27, 10:45 AM - 12:15 PM
Where: Room 408, Los Angeles Convention Center
Who: Aaron Hartline, Carlos Baena, Eric Goldberg, Michal Makarewicz & moderator Shawn Kelly
July 28, 2010
Animal and Creatures Animation Panel
What: Renowned creature animators provide an overview of what makes animating animals and creatures so unique. Gain insight on how to start conceptualizing movements for fantasy creatures with no real world reference.
When: July 28th, 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Where: HALL K, Los Angeles Convention Center
Who: Cassidy Curtis, Glen McIntosh, Jim Brown, & moderator Luci Napier
SIGGRAPH Happy Hour with Animation Mentor. It's Time to Party!
What: Join us for conversation, connections, and a rockin' good time! Space is limited, so RSVP pronto.
When: July 28th, 4 - 7 PM
Where: J Restaurant and Lounge
Get more Animation Mentor SIGGRAPH information!