You’re not too young to start animating — and this conversation proves it. I sat down with my former animation teacher to talk about overcoming roadblocks, starting young, and building a path into animation.
I had the pleasure of recording an interview with my middle/high school animation instructor, Chad Stewart, who has seen me grow from my very beginnings to where I am today. 💖✨ In this interview, Chad unpacks several areas where young artists often feel stuck on their journey toward animation and storytelling. 💫 With decades of experience working with aspiring artists, he shares vital advice and encouragement that you truly need to hear.
Ten years ago, Chad and his wife, Kayla, created an online animation course for students who wanted to begin learning animation before heading to college. 🎓✨ Before launching The Animation Course, Chad worked in the animation industry in both 2D and 3D since 1990. 💫 Some of the prominent films he contributed to include The Polar Express (2004), Cat’s Don’t Dance (1997), Tarzan (1999), The Emperor’s New Groove (2000), Surf’s Up (2007), and Open Season (2006). ✨💖
I took Chad’s course from ages 13–18, and it helped grow my skills not only for YouTube, but also throughout my college career and now into my professional career. 💖🎓 Learning the fundamentals at an early age truly set me up for success! 🤩✨ ✨I am happy to announce I am now fully employed at Glitch Productions as a 2D animator on Knights of Guinevere! ✨
Interested in learning more about The Animation Course?
Visit their website and social media! ✨💫
🎥 @the_animation_course
📮Instagram: https://www.theanimcourse.com/
✏️Website: / theanimcourse
My socials:
🌸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toonzee_ani...
🌸Portfolio: https://majesticstudios.wixsite.com/k...
Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:17 Meet Chad 05:51 His Learning Journey 08:28 Advice for Young Animators 11:23 Problems With Learning Today? 16:58 Most Important Fundamentals 20:26 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 23:10 Common Beginner Mistake 25:15 What Student Success Looks Like 29:21 My Definition of Success 30:41 How to Start Young 33:23 The Animation Course 34:53 Closing Thoughts