Tell us a little about yourself and your career.
I got into animation because I liked a girl that liked cartoons. So I started making cartoons. The girl liked me back, until she didn’t. But I still liked making cartoons. So I kept doing it. Twenty years later, I’ve been lucky enough to work on some of the best projects with the best people. And I watch anime with the best wife in the world. Life is good.
What challenges have you faced in navigating a career in animation?
When I was trying to break in: constant rejection. Then when I broke in and had to find the next gig: constant rejection. Now that I’m in leadership and pitching shows: constant rejection. So I’d say “constant rejection” is the big one. But this is the art form that I love and want to contribute to, so the heartbreak is worth it.
Who are your inspirations in the field of animation?
So many. The biggies, of course: Lotte Reiniger, Norman McLaren, Walt Disney, Brad Bird, Marjane Satrapi, etc. But also many of the people I’ve been lucky enough to work with and call friends: Natasha Kline, Jim Schumann, Thurop Van Orman, Mitch Watsomething-or-another… too many to name.
What do you hope to accomplish as an artist in the animation industry?
When I die…
1. For audiences to say: “He made a crapload of good stuff.” And…
2. For friends to say: “We had a crapload of fun making stuff.”
What does being in the Union mean to you?
Solidarity. Strength in numbers. Community. And really comfortable T-shirts. I feel proud to be a TAG member and proud that we fight for better conditions for all.
Learn more about Jim at his website.
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