Member Mondays

For Background Painter and Vis-Dev Artist Bri Neumann, freelancing beyond animation feeds her creativity, being believed in empowers her, and being in the Guild means she’s not on her journey alone.

Director and Story Artist Kim Le reflects on the importance of living your own life, her goal to maintain a healthy work/life balance, and her appreciation for hard-fought Union protections.

Visual Development Artist Natalia Falciglia believes in enjoying the growth process, forging your own meandering path, and that the Guild provides security by fighting for its members.

Storyboard Artist Michaela Wadzinski discusses how working in production made her a better artist and collaborator, the importance of asking for what you want, and how the Guild’s sense of community provides comfort.

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.