When
I was 13 years old I persuaded my father to buy me a Lego Studios film-making
set and I used the software to make my first stop motion shorts. Little did I know then that this would be the
start of a passion for making animated films.
Inspired
by the animations that I loved to watch when I was growing up, I spent hours
making and animating characters out of Blu Tack. At school and college I researched and
experimented with different materials and techniques, and each animation I made
helped me to learn and to develop my work.
The experience led me to win three local awards for my projects and
helped me decide that I wanted to pursue a career in animation.
Towards
the end of college I was awarded a grant by the Prince’s Trust. I used the funding to invest in industry
quality software and a higher spec camera, and made my series of ‘Viv &
Mandy’ short films. These films allowed me build up my online profile and make
my first connections in the animation industry.
I
have just graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in stop motion animation
and puppet making, and my graduation piece ‘The Piper’ has received a lot of very positive feedback
following its release.
My
university study developed my skills and passion for animating and puppet
making and has given me access to lots of other exciting and rewarding
opportunities. I’m an active member of
the Animation Society and have attended and participated in a number of
festivals, talks, networking events and collaborative projects. I’ve built up a circle of contacts in the
animation community and, as well as helping me to grow and develop, this has
resulted in me visiting a number of studios and also getting some fantastic
work experience.
Looking
ahead, I’m going to be attending a number of festivals in the coming months,
preparing myself for employment and driving my career forward. I’m really excited to see what the future
holds.
