Today, I want to share a deeply personal journey that I believe many artists can relate to—my struggle and growth after graduating from CalArts.
Since I was a kid, I always dreamed of becoming a Disney animator. Drawing was my escape, my passion, and my constant companion through high school. But despite my love for it, I never thought it was a viable career path.
After high school, I decided to take my general education requirements at a community college. It was there that I took my first formal drawing class, and it completely reignited my passion for art. I met other students who were working on their portfolios to get into art schools, and it was then that I rediscovered my dream of becoming a 2D animator for Disney. I also learned about a college founded by Disney with a special program for animators—CalArts. So, I finished all my general education requirements and dedicated an additional year to life drawing and perfecting my portfolio for the Character Animation Department at CalArts. When I got accepted, it felt like my dream was finally within reach.
During my four years at CalArts, I had an incredible experience. I made animated films and drew a lot, immersing myself in the world of 2D animation. However, my timing was unfortunate. I graduated just as 3D animation was taking over the industry. My urge to draw was more than just a hobby; it was a necessity. I loved the feeling of drawing on paper, flipping pages, and watching my drawings come to life. Unfortunately, computer animation couldn’t satisfy this urge.
Upon graduation, I found myself at a crossroads. I was struggling to find a way to make a living as a 2D animator in a world that was rapidly shifting to 3D. This was a challenging period for me. I had to confront the reality that my childhood dream of becoming a traditional Disney animator might not come true in the way I had imagined. But it was during this time that I learned some important principles about myself as an artist.
Firstly, I realized the importance of aligning my career with my core values and passions. Drawing on paper, creating illustrations, and seeing my work come to life through storyboarding became my new path. Storyboarding allowed me to combine my love for drawing with the practical aspects of working in the animation industry. It was a shift, but one that felt right for me.
Secondly, I understood that flexibility is crucial. The art world is constantly evolving, and sometimes, the specific dreams we have might not fit the current landscape. Being open to new opportunities and finding ways to adapt without losing the essence of what you love is essential. For me, storyboarding and illustration provided that balance.
Lastly, I learned that it’s vital to set your own path based on your principles. Coming from San Diego, I eventually realized that Los Angeles wasn’t the right fit for me. I wanted to work for myself, to have the freedom to create from anywhere in the world. Fortunately, storyboarding and illustration were careers that allowed me to do just that. Now, as a drawing educator here on YouTube, I’ve found a way to share my passion with others while staying true to my principles.
The journey of an artist is filled with twists and turns. You might find yourself shifting directions, discovering new passions, and facing unexpected challenges. But through it all, it’s crucial to stay true to yourself and what you love. Find the aspects of art that fulfill you, adapt to the changing world, and carve out a path that aligns with your values. Your journey is unique, and it’s that uniqueness that will make your work stand out.
Keep exploring, keep creating, and remember that your path as an artist is yours to shape.