Learning 3D and Animation
My journey started with a deep passion for learning 3D and animation. In late 2004, I achieved a significant milestone by earning my Master of Fine Arts degree in Computer Animation from the Miami International Academy of Art & Design. At the time I began my studies, the institution was still called the International Fine Arts College. This phase of my education was truly transformative. The school attracted exceptionally talented individuals from all over the world, creating a vibrant and inspiring environment. Working alongside peers from diverse cultures and backgrounds greatly enriched my education. Furthermore, collaborating with such a dynamic group expanded my perspective and profoundly enhanced my learning experience.
Exploring Creative Methods
Throughout my academic journey, I had the chance to explore a diverse range of disciplines, including design, filmmaking, 3D modeling, compositing, character creation, scripting, and storytelling. Among all these areas, I particularly enjoyed box modeling vehicles and characters using Maya. Furthermore, I found great satisfaction in the challenge of synchronizing audio with animations. This combination not only allowed me to create compelling and engaging narratives but also helped me connect different aspects of the creative process. Each discipline provided unique insights and contributed valuable lessons. Together, they deepened my understanding of creativity and enriched my ability to approach projects from multiple perspectives.
Combining Creativity with Technology
Throughout my studies, I discovered great satisfaction in the creative process of crafting original stories. As I advanced toward earning my Master’s degree, I honed my skills in camera tracking and compositing 3D animation with live-action footage. For my thesis project, I focused on designing and implementing a custom facial rig in Maya. This rig included a tailored user interface specifically for my 3D character, ‘Slob.’ Slob was a distinctive creation—a quirky personal assistant who introduced chaos but offered surprising benefits for those brave enough to navigate the disorder. This project allowed me to blend technical precision with imaginative storytelling, further enriching my learning experience.
Since graduating, I have had the opportunity to explore a wide variety of technologies and software. Even so, the foundation I built during my college years has remained invaluable throughout my journey as a storyteller. Over time, I have come to realize how essential it is to craft a compelling narrative when presenting an idea or product. In fact, this approach consistently proves far more impactful than relying solely on eye-catching visuals or special effects. Furthermore, each new experience has reinforced the importance of storytelling in creating meaningful connections and leaving lasting impressions. By combining technical skills with a strong narrative, I’ve been able to engage audiences in more authentic and memorable ways.
From Animation to Immersive Interaction
Although I still use Maya for some 3D projects, most of my current work focuses on creating immersive environments in Unity. This often involves integrating asset packages and tapping into shared resources, which makes the process more streamlined. Over the years, it’s been amazing to see how much the industry has evolved. Back in 2004, platforms like CGChannel.com were essential hubs for creators, and we spent countless hours building assets completely from scratch. Today, the availability of high-quality pre-made assets has completely transformed the creative process. These tools not only save a lot of time but also make projects more efficient. Even with these advancements, there’s still plenty of room for innovation and creativity, which keeps things exciting and rewarding.
