The Oatley Academy of Visual Storytelling

Extended Interview: Creature Designer & Fantasy Illustrator Brynn Metheney

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Brynn Metheney puts the “dragons” in Dungeons & Dragons.

While many of her animals come from imaginary worlds, they look like they could exist in this one…

In part one of the podcast version of this interview, we talked about Brynn’s childhood in the desert, how her father’s job as an engineer helped her understand creature design, and how she makes her animals feel so real…

In part two, Brynn shared some nitty gritty drawing tips and practical ways to improve when your artistic growth seems slow.

This Extended Interview Includes Over 40 Minutes Of Extra Audio:

  • Drawing the human skull.
  • Horses!
  • Stylized animal anatomy in 101 Dalmatians.
  • Perfectionism & Introversion.
  • Being bullied as a kid.
  • Coping with social anxiety.
  • Why artists shouldn’t sacrifice sleep and food.
  • Creating an ideal home studio.
  • When artists take themselves too seriously.

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Extended Interview: ‘Korra’ and ‘Dreamworks’ Artist, Frederic William Stewart

BSP-FredStewartExtended-PostArt-1280Frederic William Stewart was the first Background Painter on Nickelodeon’s epic animated series The Legend of Korra and today he holds a coveted role as a Dreamworks Visual Development Artist.

In the podcast version of this interview, we talked about the early days on Korra, pushing the limits of digital media and why a diversity of influences will make your work stand out…

This Extended Interview Includes Over 20 Minutes Of Extra Audio:

  • The challenges Fred faced while working on Korra.
  • Tracing Lion King off the TV.
  • Jim Henson, Mister Rogers, and the beauty of stubborn optimism.
  • Sensory overload is an inspiration killer.
  • Being nerds in high school.
  • Why Fred ditched mechanical engineering to pursue art.
  • Learning art at the Shrunken Head Man Club.
  • The secret convenience of Voodoo dolls.

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Extended Interview: Armand Serrano (Part 2)

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In part one we heard the story of Armand’s long road to success in the animation industry…

Now, the conversation with Armand gets spiritual as we discuss “pure creativity,” the role of Armand’s faith in his career and creative process and how many aspiring artists are working backwards…

The conversation then spins around 180 degrees to focus on technique and workflow.

Jose-Luis Segura joins me as guest co-host.

This Extended Interview Contains 20 Minutes Of Extra Audio:

  • How Armand overcame his doubts about fitting into the animation industry.
  • How Armand got his job on Surf’s Up.
  • Being brave enough to let go of opportunities that don’t suit your path.
  • What would your career look like in an alternate reality?
  • Armand’s return to Disney and his reunion with Paul Felix.

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Extended Interview: Armand Serrano (Part 1)

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Armand Serrano‘s inventive compositions, visceral line work and story-rich environment designs have made him a living legend in the animation industry.

From humble beginnings as an illustrator for a telegram company, to creating iconic layouts for classics such as Disney’s Mulan, Tarzan, Lilo & Stitch, Big Hero 6 (and numerous other varying films and productions), Armand has a wealth of experience and knowledge to share.

This Extended Interview Contains 8 Minutes Of Extra Audio:

  • Armand’s lifelong determination.
  • How the amazing Paul Felix helped Armand break-in.
  • How Armand’s math and engineering background informs his art.
  • Would you move to the other side of the earth to pursue your dreams?

[Read more…]

Connect With Us:

Whether you’re pursuing concept art, illustration, character design, storyboarding, comics, animation or children’s books, The Oatley Academy will help you become a professional Visual Storyteller. Please reach out! We would love to connect with you.