Lessons from Mickey-Animation Programs and Star Wars

By Kirk Bangstad
kirk.bangstad@theanimationschooldirectory.com
Animation School Directory Columnist

This weekly column is designed to help you figure out how to find job opportunities in the field of animation.

Alright you wannabe animators-you've just stumbled onto a great new resource called "Lessons from Mickey." This week, we're going to discuss the benefits of enrolling in a reputable animation program.

Animation Has Become the Norm in Film Industry

If you're an aspiring animator, then there's a good chance you've see the next episode of Star Wars entitled Revenge of the Sith. This movie is a good example of how computer animation has found its way into many modern live-action movies.

Animation Programs offer Inroads to Success

The chief animator for this last Star Wars episode was Rob Coleman. Coleman worked on the previous two Star Wars movies, and has picked up two Oscar nominations for his cutting-edge animation. Coleman's biography includes a degree in animation at a reputable animation program in Canada. After earning his degree, he worked for a number of small animation studios and gradually earned a reputation as a top-notch animator.

Coleman's biography is typical of many of today's successful animators. He honed his computer and 3d animation skills within a guided degree program. He probably landed his first animation job through a connection he made while in school, and probably got the job because his "reel," or animation portfolio, looked professional. Career networking and guidance are some of the reasons why attending a reputable 3d animation program is so vital to a successful career in animation.

Become an Animation Jedi: Enroll in an Animation Program

If you want to become the next head animator for a multi-million dollar motion picture, you should think about enrolling in a top-notch animation program. The training you'll receive there can help jump-start your career.

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.