Afonso Salcedo, Pixar

Had you always wanted a career in this industry?    

I never thought it would be possible to be an animator.  When 'Toy Story' came out I was so exited and knew I would do whatever I could to find a way into 3D animation.      

 

How did you find out about Escape, and what was it like?

I grew up in Portugal, where, at the time, the 3D Animation industry was pretty much non-existent. I searched the internet and found Escape Studios and it provided me with the kick-start that I needed to begin creating my own material. Escape's animation course gave me the intensive hands-on approach I needed, taught by industry professionals.      

 

What happened after the course?    

After collaborating on several projects, I had an opportunity to work at Framestore CFC and quickly learned how to work with teams of people in a stressful environment. For several months I had to work nightshifts, taking care of renders. Production was tight, and errors or problems had to be fixed promptly. However, it ended up being the best decision of my life.      

 

What are you doing now?    

I started working at Pixar Animation Studios on 'Cars' (pictured).Working along side people that I had admired since childhood was inspiring, to say the least.  Lighting had always been my passion and I am glad to say that now I am currently working as a Lighting Artist on Pixar’s next feature film, which can't tell you the name of...yet!      

 

What advice would you give any prospective students?

A lot of people want to do 3D Animation or work in computer graphics because it’s ‘cool’ or glamorous. Most people don't realize that this industry involves long hours, tight deadlines, huge pressure and insane challenges. But it’s as rewarding as it’s hard, and I can’t think of a better place to start than Escape Studios.

 

[Images - Top, Top Right, Bottom Right: Cars/Pixar]