The Oatley Academy of Visual Storytelling

  • TESTIMONIALS
  • MENTORSHIP
  • ABOUT
  • MY OA

Extended Interview: Jenn Ely :: The Winding Road To Laika (Part 2)

jenn-ely-p2-bsppromo

In part one, Jenn Ely regaled us with tales of alligators, emu burgers and art school…

Now, Jenn talks about her time at The Savannah College Of Art & Design (SCAD) as well as her mentorship with Dreamworks Production Designer Kathy Altieri.

…but most of the episode is, as promised, about her time at Laika.

This Extended Interview Contains Almost Half An Hour Of Extra Audio:

  • What drew Jenn to animated film rather than games.
  • How she connected with OA and Visual Development..
  • Jenn explains her need for a mentor who would not hold back..
  • It’s important to recognize the roadblocks, not just the “good parts.”.
  • Look for people who understand you and want to invest in you.
  • Is your fear bigger than your desire?
  • Consider what others need from you, rather than what they can do for you.
  • Jenn gives detail of the creative process she experienced at Laika.
  • Life comes full circle as she joins OA to teach!

This Extended Interview Is Available Exclusively To Oatley Academy Students.

Already Subscribed?

Log In For Access

Haven’t Subscribed Yet?

Find Out More

OA Student Exclusive!

Backstage Pass Categories:

  • Escape From Art Jail
  • Extended Interviews
  • Deleted Scenes
  • Portfolio Reviews
  • Art School Talks
  • Inspiration

Recent Backstage Pass Content:

My Biggest Failures Of 2017 (And What They Taught Me)

How To Ask For Donations Without Sounding Pathetic (Part 2) :: EAJ #29

Tips For Maintaining A Steady InkTober Spirit

Preparing For The Emotional Reality Of CTN-X And Other Conventions

How To Ask For Donations Without Sounding Pathetic (Part 1) :: EAJ #28

Search:

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.

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

© 2025 Visual Voice, LLC · Privacy Policy · Terms Of Service · Cookie Policy · Community Guidelines · Your Account · Help · Login