James Baxter, head of character animation at Netflix Animation, and Phil Rynda, creative director at Netflix Animation studio, discuss the emotional power of animation and creating a positive studio culture. They also talk about the challenges of being an artist, their favorite short animation films, the flexibility of Netflix, hiring opportunities in the animation industry, and the current state of the industry.
Animation is a unique and captivating medium that creates a world solely for the story being told, drawing viewers in with its immersive experience.
Animation resonates with a universal human experience, connecting to our childhood creativity and inspiring families through cultural and generational experiences.
Deep dives
The Power of Animation as a Storytelling Medium
Animation is a powerful medium for storytelling because it allows the viewer to feel the human touch behind each frame. Unlike live-action, animation offers a blank canvas where every decision, from character designs to colors, is intentional and thought out. The complete creation of a world in animation is unique and captivating, drawing viewers in with its ability to transport them to a world that exists solely for the story being told. With animation, emotions are easily conveyed, making it a direct line to the audience's imagination and a medium that can provide a truly immersive experience.
The Appeal of Animation and Its Universal Connection
Animation has a special appeal because it resonates with a universal human experience - creating pictures and drawings as children. While many people stop drawing as they grow older, there is a subset of the population that continues to pursue art, design, and animation. This connection to our childhood creativity and the ability to create images is what makes animation relatable and accessible to a wide range of people. Additionally, the cultural and generational experience associated with animated movies reinforces this connection, where families gather to enjoy and be inspired by animated stories.
Fostering a Productive and Happy Creative Culture
Creating a culture that nurtures the productivity and happiness of creative individuals is a challenging but crucial goal. This requires a focus on inspiration, curiosity, and constant growth. Providing a motivating environment where artists can push themselves creatively is essential, along with clear boundaries and constructive self-critique. Collaborative efforts and open communication, including vulnerability and one-on-one sessions, play a pivotal role in supporting artists. While it's a continuous effort and an ever-evolving process, fostering a culture that encourages creativity and personal growth is key to achieving exceptional artistic work.
Tips for Prospective Animation Artists
For aspiring animation artists, there are some key recommendations to enhance their chances of success. Firstly, tailor your portfolio to the specific job or project you are applying for, showcasing not only your technical skills but also your storytelling abilities. Secondly, create an easily accessible and professional online portfolio that includes your contact information, making it convenient for studios to reach you. Finally, be proactive and reach out to studios, making inquiries and connections to increase your chances of exposure and potential job opportunities in a rapidly growing industry.
In part 2 of our special episodes highlighting Netflix Animation, we focus on the Netflix Animation studio featuring our head of character animation, James Baxter, and Netflix animation studio creative director, Phil Rynda.
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