Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Powell.
Chris, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am a CG Artist and Visual Development Artist for the animation/game markets. I graduated from Ringling College of Art and Design where I was exposed to the medium of computer animation where I used the same tools from top animation studios like Pixar, Disney, and Dreamworks. Since graduation, I became a largely self-taught CG animation artist where I’ve helped develop indie animated films like Everett Downing’s THE BOOK OF MOJO through the online studio platform, Artella. While helping other filmmakers to achieve their vision, I have been able to produce my own work, like my award-winning animated-film NOVALIS. My film was a product from my education in artschool, and my own personal mission to express animation in different ways than being confined as a medium for children. It is my goal to direct an adult-oriented animated show/film to prove that there is an audience for that one day.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
During my time in Ringling College, there were challenges and conflicts whether it is disputes with the teachers or the way the curriculum is structured. To this day I am still resentful about my program, but I learned that there is no perfect school and the most you can do is to just come out of it as the best person you can be. My parents are very supportive, both passionately and financially, for me to do the things I am able to do today. I think my road towards my dream would of been much harder hadn’t been without their love and support.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Alchemy Engine – what should we know?
I work with Alchemy Engine LLC, the company for the in-development online show, THE BOOK OF MOJO. I am specialized as a lighting/compositing artist but I also have done concept art like painting color keys to guide the look of the show. I am really proud of the fact that THE BOOK OF MOJO is a passion project for my director and I think it will take the medium of animation into interesting places once we find a way to release it.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I think just “keeping at it” on what you love to do and maintain that persistence is the most important trait to have for any creator. It’s really important to know that there is no perfect route to find success whether it is through academia or without it. So just have the self-drive and do what brings you happiness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bookofmojo.com/ and https://chrisvpowell.carbonmade.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krizpy64/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/krizpy64
Image Credit:
The one of the African-American girl and the rat is from THE BOOK OF MOJO. Directorial credit is Everett Downing. The one of gen:LOCK is a property of Rooster Teeth.
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