Chuck Jones, Animator Extraordinaire

By Debbie Wilson
debbie.wilson@animationschooldirectory.com
Animation School Directory Columnist

If you've decided to embark on an animation career, you're probably familiar with the animated cartoon character Bugs Bunny. But what you might not know is just how much Bugs Bunny's creator, Chuck Jones, contributed to the animation industry. Undoubtedly one of the most talented animators of all time, he was able to transform a simple character into an animated icon we've all come to know and love.

A Brilliant Career

Born in Spokane, Washington in 1912 and moving to Los Angeles soon thereafter, Chuck Jones used to watch Charlie Chaplin movies through fence holes as a child. He grew up in a modest family, drawing pictures and animated figures until one day, at the age of 20, he had become such a great artist that the Schlesinger animation studio signed him on.

Shortly afterward, Warner Bros. bought the business and Chuck Jones worked as an animator there for the rest of his career. Throughout his career, Chuck created some of the greatest figures in cartoon history, including Pepe Le Pew, Road Runner, Coyote, and Daffy Duck. Overall, he made more than 300 animated films, wrote children's books, and by the age of 89, when he passed on in 2002, was considered one of the world's greatest animators.

Live Your Dreams as an Animator

If you have a serious passion for art and sketching, consider a career in animation. Like Chuck Jones, not only will you have the opportunity to produce creative masterpieces, but you'll also be rewarded with knowing that in some way, your animated characters just might provide the laugh or smile that helps another individual feel lighthearted and carefree, if only for a moment. As comedian Robin Williams put it, "Sure, Picasso painted some of the world's classic works of art, but he never drew a Daffy Duck tantrum. That takes talent."

About the Author

Debbie Wilson owns and operates a lakeside resort, managing all aspects of operations, including marketing and promotion. Her previous experience includes management and profitability consulting for a national healthcare company. In this capacity, she oversaw a five-state operation, utilizing her extensive knowledge of healthcare billing, A/R management, and human resources. Debbie holds a B.A. in Business Management with a minor in Physical Education.