For this unit we are required to research industry roles and professional practice. I often consider what roles I might like to take on in the industry once my studies are finished, and it is something that seems to change continuously as I try out more techniques and styles. I have imagined myself in many roles since I began my studies – considering careers in 3D modelling and environment creation, game design, 3D and 2D character animation, pre-visualisation, motion graphics, puppet animation and model-making for stop motion. My interests and goals seem to be ever changing, however since beginning this masters course and being given access to materials to create more analogue and traditional animation, I have found myself focussing on these techniques. I have used Unit 2 to explore these interests, directing both a puppet animation (with some digitally drawn 2D elements) and and most recently an oil-on-glass animation. Over my next blog posts I will discuss in detail the roles I took on and what I gained from my experiences.
Because of the many techniques I have explored and the varied portfolio this has resulted in, I feel confident to call myself a mixed-media artist when entering the industry. I would like to explore what this means for me when I enter the creative world, looking into the potential paths I could take and researching where similar interdisciplinary artists have gone in their careers. My interests have now strayed away from 3D production techniques as well as motion graphics – I am more interested in exploring career paths in stop motion, experimental and 2D digital and traditional filmmaking techniques, particularly as an animator. I am also interested in exploring wider options of production roles – given my affinity for painting and set building it would be useful to consider theatre as a potential career area. From this research I am hoping to gain an insight into industry standards and requirements which will inform my practice, I can them implement this understanding into my graduation film and any other projects that follow.
I will use my journal not only to broaden my knowledge of industry roles and professional practice, but it will also give me an opportunity to consider where my career could take me geographically. In terms of the close future I would love to stay in London as I establish myself and find my way into industry, however can also envision myself in other UK cities with a prominent animation industry such as Manchester, Cardiff or Bristol. I also have an interest in travelling and am keen to live in a different country for at least a short period, so this research will enable me to consider which countries and cities I might like to go to.