From Animation Degree to the Big Screen

By Kirk Bangstad
kirk.bangstad@theanimationschooldirectory.com

With "Aeon Flux" coming to the big screen, animator Peter Chung is finding success with his unique style. Animators like Chung with top-notch skills and a distinctive style, often honed in animation school, can set themselves apart in the animation industry.

How Sexy Cartoons Jumpstarted One Animation Career

If there is one person that is known for making animation sexy, it is Peter Chung. This famous animator saw his career move into the fast track after he created the sexy cartoon assassin named Aeon Flux. The cartoon was aired on MTV in the early nineties. His creation, which was originally supposed to be a spoof on Hollywood action movies, has recently been turned into one. Charlize Theron will star in the movie version of "Aeon Flux", which is scheduled to open in movie theatres soon.

Chung Known for his Unique Animation Style

After receiving his animation degree at CalArts, Chung started working in the animation industry in 1981. He employed a unique animation technique that has helped many identify him with his work. He animates and paints his backgrounds by hand, and then digitally colors and composites them to achieve a look similar to cell animation. Chung artfully integrates 2D- and 3D-animation techniques for his unique brand of animation.

Hone Animation Skills by Earning Your Computer Animation Degree

To learn the various animation techniques that Chung employs, as well as many other specialized drawing and computer animation skills, you will probably need to go to animation school. Earning a computer animation degree will help you hone the skills that are necessary to find a job in the animation industry today.

For those who can't spend the time needed to develop their animation skills in a classroom, it is possible to earn an animation degree online. Online computer animation degrees are becoming popular alternatives for those who want an animation career since they provide a lot of academic flexibility.

If you hope to have an animation career as successful and varied as Peter Chung's, then take the plunge and earn your animation degree.

About the Author

Kirk Bangstad is an artist manager and singer working in Chicago, IL. His previous experience includes consulting for technology companies in the Silicon Valley and serving as a field director and publicist for a statewide political campaign. Kirk holds a B.A. in government from Harvard University.