Art by Stephen Silver
What’s it take to succeed in animation- and in life? Character designer Stephen Silver joined Jake Parker and Will Terry to share his wisdom from a career in illustration, animation, and teaching. From mindset to portfolio tips, you won’t want to miss it!
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SHOW LINKS
Stephen Silver: silvertoons.com, Instagram @stephensilver7, Youtube channel
The Silver Drawing Academy
Lightbox Expo
WonderCon
AnimeCon
Tom Richmond 3PP interview
Mort Drucker
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Don’t let your weaknesses prevent you from progressing. Whether you struggle with drawing or networking, stretch beyond your comfort zone to conquer your limitations.
You’re responsible for your own exposure. Go to conventions, make new connections, and keep your social media presence relevant to the work for which you want to be hired.
Show your work to the right people. Rather than looking for constant affirmation, seek out those who will be honest and who will help you improve your skills.
Your portfolio is your diploma; it’s more valuable than a degree. If you want to enter animation, use your portfolio to show your wide range of specific skills (backgrounds, character design, prop design, etc.). Just make sure to keep it organized!
BIO
Stephen Silver is a London-born, LA-based artist, character designer, and teacher with over 30 years of working experience. He was the character designer for Kim Possible, Danny Phantom, and Clerks: The Animated Series, and currently works for Disney as an art recruiter. Stephen is the founder of the Silver Drawing Academy, an online art school teaching character design. Check out his work and learn more at silvertoons.com.
LINKS
Jake Parker: mrjakeparker.com. Instagram: @jakeparker, Youtube: JakeParker44
Will Terry: willterry.com. Instagram: @willterryart, Youtube: WillTerryArt
Lee White: leewhiteillustration.com. Instagram: @leewhiteillo
Daniel Tu: danieltu.co.
Lily Howell: lilycamille.com
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