Tell us a little about yourself and your career.
As a kid, I loved to read, draw, and write stories, and I just never stopped! I didn’t realize animation was a career path I could take until high school, where I attended California State Summer School for the Arts’ animation program in 2013. After that I attended CalArts and graduated with the intent to pursue storyboarding. I was very lucky to get a job as a Revisionist on Infinity Train and since then have worked several revisions and storyboard jobs. I most recently worked on Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake’s second season and SuperMutant Magic Academy, both of which were very special. My favorite thing about all the jobs I’ve had is all the wonderful people I’ve worked with!
What challenges have you faced in navigating a career in animation?
It took me about a year after graduating college to get a job in animation, which I felt very ashamed of at the time. I felt like less of an artist than my peers who I saw leave school early because they were offered jobs, or had multiple offers from studios before graduating. It’s hard to separate your confidence from your self-worth as an artist when they have been intertwined your whole life. Even after you find employment, making art doesn’t feel the same because it becomes work. Now we’re facing even bigger issues such as job creep, the streaming bubble bursting, a recession, and the imposing force of AI. I’ve had several stints of unemployment, and each time it gets scarier. I’ve seen many friends who are insanely talented be out of work for more than two years. The challenges never stop, but I still hope to always be a part of this industry in some way, because it’s really special.
Who are your inspirations in the field of animation?
One of my biggest inspirations is Steve Wolfhard, who I’ve had the pleasure of working with on two projects. He is the best! Every single drawing he makes is genius. I also wouldn’t be where I am without Jessie Wong, who was my supervisor at my first job. All of her art is so beautiful and inspirational to look at, and I’ve followed her work online since I was in high school. Both of them are brilliant directors and supervisors, and I’ve learned a lot from them.
What do you hope to accomplish as an artist in the animation industry?
I want to continue working on great shows with great people! I hope to encourage my peers, never work unpaid OT, and strive for healthy production schedules.
What does being in the Union mean to you?
I am proud and fortunate to be a member of TAG. I’m thankful for the protections our Union offers, the community, and how we all strive to create a better workplace. I look forward to the continuing efforts of the Union to make the animation industry better for its workers.
Learn more about Jackie at her website.
Follow her on Bluesky, Instagram, and Tumblr.
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