Teaching Statement

I am currently Assistant Professor of the Practice of Cinematic Arts and MFA Mentor at University of Southern California for the John C Hench Animation & Digital Arts Program in the School of Cinematic Arts. My experience working in the movie picture industry has provided me with extensive, applied, practical and theoretical knowledge of commercial animation production. In addition, I have continued my exploration of computer generated images through my graduate studies degree in painting. My fine art work begins not in the digital and not in the physical, but in the mix that our minds make of the two. This is the same challenge I pose to my students. My research and work experience is in all fields of computer and traditional mediums for all outputs including film, games, commercials and more and I have incorporated all of these techniques and research in my classes. 

In addition to this website, (spicycricket) I have created an informative and inspirational blog (thinkinganimationbook) as additional learning resources for animators both new and seasoned.

At USC I am responsible for teaching these classes:
Introduction to the Art of Movement (CTAN 102)
Introduction to Digital Animation (CTAN 302)
Introduction to 3-D Computer and Character Animation (CTAN 301)
Animation Theory and Techniqes (CTAN 450B)
Master's Thesis (CTAN 594A)
Senior Project (CTAN 401A)

I utilize my research and animation experience to generate the original syllabi and course assignments for students. In my "Introduction to the Art of Movement" Lab I keep the flow of the curriculum and assignments open to experimentation, as this is one of the first classes students are introduced to generating 3D animation with a computer. I encourage creativity and trials as a main goal for the exercises over several final, polished projects. This openness to an introductory class encourages the ability to succeed and/or fail without drastic consequences, which fosters great growth and an easier integration into unfamiliar territories. I firmly believe you learn more from your failed attempts than your successes; much like getting lost on the way to someone's house... you will never lose your way in that neighborhood, again.

In connection with my "Introduction to Digital Animation" course, I like to balance the introduction of production specific exercises and balance these with storytelling and short film ideas for a final piece. I inspire students with artists from all backgrounds and disciplines. My research informs everything I present conceptually at this venture with my students to get them thinking about why they are telling their stories, who their audience is and why the audience should care. This class is the foundation for (CTAN 302) as the student begin to animate very simple character on the computer.

Continuing with the introduction of characters, the "Introduction to 3-D Computer and Character Animation" course I challenge the students to take everything they have learned to this point about animating on a computer and telling stories (whether linear or not) and begin preparation for their senior thesis, both technically regarding execution using a computer and theoretically. Due to my fine arts background I ask for analytical observations by students in terms of content and the artist's methods and devices for delivering that content to the viewer. I challenge the students to decide for themselves if they are developing a discernible story, or a smaller narrative fragment? In most contemporary art and animation there is not a clear end to a narrative, like there would be in a biblical tale, but instead we are led in certain directions, and then left to ponder our own thoughts. I ask the students to think about how much control they have over the audience thoughts about the work? What devices can be employed to achieve this? Through analytical study of formal, symbolic, historical, and technical choices made by inspirational artists I show in class the students learn how to see their own choices change the perception of their work.

"Animation Theory and Techniqes" furthers the exploration of creating an independent short film. The course covers developing a point of view and voice in addition to development of a sound production pipeline that will work for the projects. Students develop their ideas and concepts and simultaneously learn about look/dev, concept art, and the beginnings of a production pipeline. Exploration is a big part of this course.

"Master's Thesis" and "Senior Project" are where I mentor both the BA and MFA students on their thesis films. This is one of my favorite times working as an instructor because it is a collaborative effort and very creative.

"Tell me and I forget. Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand."
~Chinese saying

I have also taught at several institutions in the Los Angeles area including: Dhima, Gnomon School of VFX and ianimate.net. One of the toughest obstacles for any artist or film maker is solving problems that are both creative and technical at the same time.  In film making and animation, the story and the art are intertwined.  Using my 20+ years experience working in the movie picture industry, I bring problem-solving strategies that are conceptually sound and applicable. I have no desire to solely create a workforce.  Instead, I mentor artists towards innovative thinking.  My student's demo reels are always different and I encourage them to have a unique, creative voice.  I also value narrative, character and empathy.  I view my instructor role as a sign post; steering my students towards original, creative solutions.  I also believe my role as instructor is submissive to the student's growth and I am quick to change my tactics if an approach is not coming across as I hoped.

We all learn in different ways and art is a subjective topic to teach. It is rare to have all students are operating at the same level. I like to switch things up to keep the students thinking and mold my instruction to work best for their needs. My favorite quote regarding the learning experience is... 'Tell me and I forget. Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand.' This is an old Chinese saying, but like many proverbs it is true to life and learning. Over the years, I have worked with industry professionals and I use these contact to incorporate class visits and guest lectures. I use classroom discussion, open critiques, guest speakers and Improv exercises to get the students interacting, sharing and discussing the work. I encourage communication among the students and the sharing of ideas. Animation is a collaborative art form and I think students should get used to sharing with their peers.

I also assist students in making contacts, internships and finding employment upon graduation. I have worked for most every studio in the Los Angeles area and have important contacts at all of the studios in their talent development departments that come in handy closer to graduation. I also offer a "Career Strategies" lecture every term that is one of my popular lectures. No matter if you plan on working in big studio production, working independently, or for a small boutique, you have to have a plan of action.

My primary goal as a teacher is to foster critical thinking, facilitate creative thought and to prepare students on how to function effectively as a filmmaker and artist.  This is in addition to my students learning the fundamentals of animation and gain technical skills with the tools.  I strive to create well rounded artists that have mastered both the technical and artistic aspects of film making, storytelling and animation.  I do all of this with an optimistic, positive atmosphere that becomes a safe place to share and grow.  My classroom atmosphere allows for students to feel safe making mistakes.  I believe more is learned from failures, than successes.

Nothing feels better than when you explain a complex concept and see a light go off. It is a reward in of itself.  This is the only reason to become a teacher, in my mind.  I am at a time in my life now where I want to give back.  I have a genuine interest in making solid artists who, one day, win awards for their films. My own work and research is richer because of my teaching experience. Connections with young artists keep me young and from going stale working in isolation in my studio. It's a great give and take.