Member Mondays

Lighting Supervisor Samuel Maniscalco shares how he fell in love with lighting, his dream to bring cinematographers into animation, and how the Guild means you don’t have to face issues alone.

Story Artist Lauren Sassen discusses why you should keep trying and be kind, their desire to make more LGBTQIA+-centered animated films, and their appreciation for how the Guild works to make the lives of animation industry professionals better.

Visual Development Artist Pablo Rivera shares his love of natural environments, his goals to work on creatively challenging projects, and his belief that the Guild gives dignity to workers.

Storyboard Artist Kathy J. Liu believes a happy art career is sustained by a happy art community, the business of animation is about creating good humans, and the Guild nurtures a culture of generosity.

Iranian Storyboard Artist Raha Dabiri shares her thoughts on battling imposter syndrome, serving as a beacon of hope, and using the Guild as a safe space for discussions about inclusivity and representation.

Color Designer and Background Painter Courtney Coffman shares her thoughts on using all the crayons in the box, failure as a stepping stone, and the Guild as a source of empowerment.

Art Director April Apodaca discusses her eclectic creative interests, her love of serious stories in animation, and why she appreciates the Guild for bringing members together.

Lead Character Technical Director Areeba Khan shares the challenges of career pivots, her passion for a hand-drawn look, and how the Guild creates safe space for creativity.