Rise Up AnimationIn celebration of Amanda Gorman's inspiring spoken poem, "The Hill We Climb," written and recited exactly one year ago on January 20th, 2021 for the presidential inauguration of Joe Biden, we would like to share a very special tribute created by Rise Up Animation alumni Kylie Gay and Eavvon O’Neal!
In their spare time, story artist, Kylie Gay, and editor, Eavvon O’Neal, teamed up to create a powerful, abstract and emotional love letter to the spoken words of "The Hill We Climb," supported by the mentorship of RiseUpAnimation.
We could not be prouder of their collaboration, passion and talent; simply put, the future of the Animation Industry is bright!
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Story Animatic - The Hill We ClimbRise Up Animation2022-01-20 | In celebration of Amanda Gorman's inspiring spoken poem, "The Hill We Climb," written and recited exactly one year ago on January 20th, 2021 for the presidential inauguration of Joe Biden, we would like to share a very special tribute created by Rise Up Animation alumni Kylie Gay and Eavvon O’Neal!
In their spare time, story artist, Kylie Gay, and editor, Eavvon O’Neal, teamed up to create a powerful, abstract and emotional love letter to the spoken words of "The Hill We Climb," supported by the mentorship of RiseUpAnimation.
We could not be prouder of their collaboration, passion and talent; simply put, the future of the Animation Industry is bright!
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimation #thehillweclimb #animaticTrust Your Storytelling Sensibilities - Echo WuRise Up Animation2024-12-04 | Echo Wu is the creator and showrunner of Netflix’s new animated series, "Jentry Chau vs. The Underworld". Echo shares how she brought her show to life, the journey of creating an original animated series, collaborating with talents like Ali Wong, and drawing inspiration from her upbringing and cultural roots.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist or an industry pro, Echo’s journey is proof that your unique voice matters. This conversation offers advice and inspiration for anyone looking to tell their own story and carve their path in animation.
🎨 Watch Jentry Chau vs. The Underworld on Netflix, December 5th.
💡 Subscribe for more episodes of the Rise Up Animation PodcastMaking History: Creating the First Pakistani Animated FilmRise Up Animation2024-10-17 | Usman Riaz is the director of Pakistan’s first animated feature film, The Glassworker, and co-founder of Mano Animation Studios, the country’s first animation studio. His groundbreaking work has opened doors for the animation industry in Pakistan, blending beautiful storytelling with stunning animation.
In this episode, Usman shares his inspiring journey, how he built his own studio from the ground up, and the challenges he overcame to create The Glassworker. He also offers invaluable advice to aspiring directors: stay persistent and embrace your unique voice.
Usman Riaz instagram.com/usmanoriazHow I Wrote, Directed, and Animated My Own Feature Film - Denver JacksonRise Up Animation2024-09-23 | Visionary filmmaker Denver Jackson singlehandedly wrote, directed, and animated his own feature film, "The World's Divide". Here's how he did it.
Denver Jackson -Instagram instagram.com/denver.jacksonStoryboard Study: An Animation Directors Top PicksRise Up Animation2024-09-01 | Leslie Park, a seasoned animation director and story artist, shares some of the key films and TV projects she’s studied to learn storyboard techniques. Leslie also offers valuable advice for students on what to watch and how to analyze visual storytelling in movies and shows.Why Fitness Matters For Artists - Ray SantosRise Up Animation2024-08-12 | Ray Santos is a seasoned Storyboard Storyboard Director with over 12 years in animation. He is also a ISSA-certifified personal trainer and nutritionist, working with clients emphasizing optimal weight training and diet practices, why still maintaining a healthy work/life balance.
Ray has worked on hit shows like Nickelodeon's "Baby Shark’s Big Show," "The Casagrandes," and "The Loud House Movie." In this episode, Ray shares his perspective on the importance of fitness and exercise for animation artists, offering practical tips on how to balance a creative career with a healthy lifestyle.
Art IG instagram.com/rayysannTop 3 Storyboard Tips w/ Emmy-Winner Ben JuwonoRise Up Animation2024-08-08 | I had lunch with my friend Ben today, we talked about what goes into making a standout story portfolio.
Ben Juwono is an Emmy and Annie Award-winning Storyboard Artist, Director, and Show Creator. Here are his top Do's and Don'ts for students putting together a storyboard portfolio.
Ben Juwono http://bjwno.netThe Authentic Path to a Thriving Art Career - Michelle LamRise Up Animation2024-07-25 | This episode's guest is the incredibly talented Michelle Lam!
Michelle is a Chinese-American director, author, and story artist for studios like Tonko House, Netflix, Glen Keane Productions, and Titmouse Animation Studios. She has also built an amazing independent artist career, publishing her successful graphic novel, MEESH THE BAD DEMON, with Penguin Random House Knopf.Standing out in a world of AIRise Up Animation2024-07-21 | ...The Michelle Lam EpisodeRise Up Animation2024-07-16 | We’re thrilled to welcome our next guest, the incredibly talented Michelle Lam! instagram.com/mewtripled mewtripled.com
Michelle is a Chinese-American director, author, and story artist for studios like Tonko House, Netflix, Glen Keane Productions, and Titmouse Animation Studios. She has also built an amazing independent artist career, publishing her successful graphic novel, MEESH THE BAD DEMON, with Penguin Random House Knopf.
Join us for an inspiring conversation about Michelle’s journey to becoming her own creator and how she uses social media to share her honest and heartfelt personal stories. Learn how to take control of your creative path and discover how you too can rise up and make your mark!
Tune in and be part of the conversation!Rise Up Animation Live StreamRise Up Animation2024-07-15 | Insert: IG description (Adjust the text so it introduces the panel first)
Optional: Informational links mentioned in the panel following this format: Name of organization, article, etc. | link
Speakers: First, Last Name | Position, Studio Company First, Last Name | Position, Studio Company First, Last Name | Position, Studio Company
Moderator: (Only if host isn’t one of our founders) First, Last Name | Position, Studio Company
Thumbnail Graphic Design by Loc Nguyen
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Music: (EG) “Track Title” by Artist Youtube link to music Social media linksArt, Fitness, and Standing out in a world of A.I. - Zac RetzRise Up Animation2024-07-14 | Rise Up podcast with the amazing Zac Retz , Oscar-winning Art Director and founder of Impetus Animation. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or feeling anxious about the animation industry, know that you are not alone! Gain valuable insights on all things art, and staying healthy and creative in these challenging times.The Zac Retz EpisodeRise Up Animation2024-07-02 | Livestream Interview with ZAC RETZ Visual Development Artist artstation.com/zacretz
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationThriving in Uncertain Times - Minkyu LeeRise Up Animation2024-07-01 | In this episode of the Rise Up Animation Podcast. Bobby sits down with Oscar-nominated animation director and creator Minkyu Lee for a discussion on how you can thrive in the ever-changing landscape of the animation industry.
Speakers: Minkyu Lee - Animation Director and Comic Artist
Moderator: Bobby Pontillas🌟 Celebrating Our Amazing Mentors! 🌟Rise Up Animation2024-06-05 | As we celebrate our 4th birthday, we’re shining a spotlight on our superstar mentors! For the past 4 years, they’ve been sharing their expertise and providing invaluable feedback to our mentees. Dive in to hear more about their incredible experiences as a mentor!
Want to mentor with RUA and inspire the next generation? Apply now!
Music Credits: Upbeat Uplifting Happy Pop Corporate (Long) by good_b_music pixabay.com/music/corporate-upbeat-uplifting-happy-pop-corporate-long-10629Directing Nimona with Nick Bruno and Troy QuaneRise Up Animation2024-05-18 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Please join Rise Up Animation for an exclusive panel with Nick Bruno and Troy Quane, directors of the Oscar-nominated film, NIMONA. Nick and Troy will discuss the film's incredible journey from ND Stevenson's graphic novel to its animated feature film debut.
This online event will be a celebration of the amazing artists, technicians, and production staff led by its directors, and what this project means for more representation in the animation industry.
Speakers: Troy Quane | Director, Netflix Nick Bruno | Director, Netflix
Thumbnail Graphic Design by Loc Nguyen
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationCreating Spider-Man: Across the Spider-VerseRise Up Animation2024-05-15 | What's up Rise Up Fam? Join Production Designer, Patrick O'Keefe, and Visual Effects Supervisor, Mike Lasker, for a discussion about the artistic and technological innovations behind the making of the critically acclaimed and visually groundbreaking feature, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse."
Patrick O'Keefe is the production designer of “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” and served as art director on the Academy Award®-winning “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse." O’Keefe has worked on a variety of films, video games, commercials, and television shows; his animation credits include visual development artist on “Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation,” and background painter on “Big Hero 6: The Series," and he has worked on award-winning short films such as “Invasion!” “Henry,” “Fragile” and “Ashes Fall.” O’Keefe studied illustration at Sheridan College before transferring to the Emily Carr University of Art and Design where he received his Bachelor of Media Arts in Film and Animation Design.
Michael Lasker is the visual effects supervisor for "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," and has over two decades of experience working on live-action and animated features, including the Academy Award®-winning "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse," "The Mitchells vs. the Machines," "Smurfs: The Lost Village," "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" and "Hotel Transylvania." He began his computer graphics career in New York City working on commercials for leading advertising agencies. Lasker received a BFA in computer graphics from Syracuse University.
Speakers: Patrick O'Keefe | Production Designer, Sony Picture Animation Mike Lasker | Visual Effects Supervisor, Sony Picture Animation
Thumbnail Graphic Design by Loc Nguyen
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationDead End Paranormal ParkRise Up Animation2023-09-30 | Hey Rise Up Fam! We have special guests from the Dead End: Paranormal Park visiting Rise Up Animation as we converse with Series Creator Hamish Steele, Art Director Dommi Fox, Lead Character Designer Riu Tinubu, Background Supervisor Melissa Malone, and Layout Supervisor and artist for Animation and VFX Ilaria Ponticelli.
Speakers: Dommi Fox | Art Director Hamish Steele | Creator Ilaria Ponticelli | Layout Supervisor Riu Tinubu | Lead Character Designer Melissa Malone | Background Supervisor
Thumbnail Graphic Design by Loc Nguyen
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
00:00:00 Intro 00:13:13 Audience 00:22:09 Unique Challenges 00:42:35 Favorite Episodes 00:47:40 UK vs US Production 00:52:00 Pushing Boundaries 1:05:15 Lessons from Making the Show 1:16:24 Quick TipsRise Up Animations 3rd AnniversaryRise Up Animation2023-06-06 | Hey Rise Up Fam!! Today's our ✨3rd anniversary✨!! Can you believe another year already flew by? Our superstar MPR team banded together once again, from all art styles and backgrounds, to create an amazing (and delicious) cake in honor of our anniversary.
We look forward to continue rising up together!
Project Lead: Shengluo Zhang
Artists: Rik Sarkar Loc Nguyen Ivy Lomax Sabrina Sage Shivani Thummala Lisa Maria Leah Felty
Editor: Caroline Tagulao
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Music: massobeats - honey jam: youtube.com/watch?v=HGMQbVfYVmI&t=0sBetween StoryboardingRise Up Animation2022-09-20 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Have you ever wondered the difference between being a storyboard artist in TV, Feature Films, and Video Games? Join us this with @thefranchizeart , @storyduke, and @jonlamart to discuss What's In-between the three different fields.
Speakers: Jerry Gaylord is a story artist and designer originally from Oxon Hill, MD. After getting his first shot at storyboarding on Disney XD’s Ultimate Spider-Man Jerry moved to LA to start a full time career in animation. He has worked with Warner Bros. Animation, Blizzard Entertainment, and Marvel Studios on the Disney Plus series X-Men 97.
Jon Lam is a Canadian Storyboard artist that works in both Animation and Gaming. His love of art started early with comic books, cartoons and anime. He is often covered in cat and dog fur, and drinks coffee before bed.
Stephanie Ma Stine, co-director at DreamWorks Feature Animation, has worked in animation for nine years as a story artist on movies such as How to Train Your Dragon 3 and Raya and the Last Dragon, and was also an episode director on the first season of She-Ra and the Princesses of Power. Prior to her career in animation, Stephanie worked in live action as a photographer and cinematographer, working on the set of Water For Elephants as well as numerous music videos for various Interscope musicians such as Lady Gaga, Eminem, and The Black Eyed Peas.
00:00:00 Intro 00:11:32 TV vs. Feature vs. Game Storyboarding 00:33:24 Self-care and dealing with pressure 00:42:54 Seeking advice at work 00:51:15 Applying for jobs and making a portfolio 00:58:58 Drawing efficiency 01:05:14 TV and Feature departments in the industry and screenwriting 01:14:00 Outro
Thumbnail Graphic Design by Rey
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationUnion Bound!Rise Up Animation2022-09-07 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Color Supervisor, Teri Hendrich Cusumano @colorsorceress from Bento Box Entertainment and Netflix Artist/Executive Producer and animation/comic book writer, Mairghread Scott are going to tell us about their journey into the industry and their experience as members of The Animation Guild. Enjoy!
Speakers: Teri Hendrich Cusumano | Color Supervisor, Bento Box Entertainment Mairghread Scott | Executive Producer, Netflix
00:00:00 Intro 00:04:03 Early career 00:09:03 Networking during covid 00:13:49 Entering the animation guild 00:17:57 Testing 00:21:32 Negotiating contracts 00:34:59 Advice for people entering the industry 00:53:00 The guild's location 00:55:47 Why do we need Unions? 01:01:06 Coming into animation from a different background 01:04:02 Outro
Thumbnail Design by Rey
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimation #theanimationguild #union3D Animation and Tech Art in ValorantRise Up Animation2022-07-24 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Get ready for an exciting panel about Riot's FPS game, Valorant with Tech Artist, Linda Petch and Senior Animator, Josiah Haworth!! Get to know our artists below for their talents and work!
Linda's Bio: Hello! I'm Linda Petch, Technical Artist (Rigging) on Valorant. I worked on Chamber and Fade, and currently am on our next agent. I've been with the team here for a bit over a year; previously I shipped Miles Morales for PS4/5 and developed a bit of Spider-Man 2 at Insomniac Games before joining this team. Before that I did animation and previs for movies, TV shows, commercials, VR, games, game cinematics, and theme parks. I'm a trash tier Valorant player and a top tier lover of cats.
Josiah's Bio: Hello my name is Josiah Haworth. I have been working professionally in video games since 2016. After graduation in 2013, I spent a year working for Magic Leap (an Augmented Reality company) before moving to California, and getting a job at Blizzard Entertainment where I first worked on World of Warcraft, and eventually the Overwatch team, where i contributed too a number of heroes including Brigette, Moira, Baptiste, and Sigma. Today I am working at Riot Games where I contributed to the launch of their competitive first person shooter Valorant, which is the studio's first new IP since League of Legends. Since Joining the Valorant team in 2019 I have helped craft the gameplay animation for a number of Agents including Jett, Kayo, Chamber, Yoru and many others.
Speakers: Linda Petch | Tech Artist (Rigging), Riot Josiah Haworth | Senior Animator, Riot
00:00:00 Intro 00:22:50 Game Development Process Overview 00:38:21 Animation for Game Development 00:41:23 Technical Art for Game Development 00:51:00 Technical Art for Valorant 00:57:24 Animation in Valorant Agent: Role and Process 01:05:26 Technical Art Process 01:11:55 Animation Process Breakdown 01:21:03 Being a game developer and breaking into the industry 01:40:26 Premium content technical art and VFX 01:50:01 Software and pipeline 02:13:18 Project/work rejection and revisions 02:18:26 Rigging Resources 02:21:16 Outro
Thumbnail Graphic Design by Kira Rodrigues | @kira.rawrdrigoose
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationThe Art and Story of the Bad GuysRise Up Animation2022-06-27 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Join us for a behind the scenes deep dive on the Art & Story of Dreamworks hit film, THE BAD GUYS! We'll be joined by Director Pierre Perifel, Art Director Floriane Marchix, and Character Designer Taylor Krahenbuhl.
00:00:00 Intro 00:03:41 Idea conception 00:16:15 Discovering the style of the film 00:31:59 Visual planning the sequential order of the film 00:36:21 Character design 01:05:05 Early concepts 01:13:18 Relationships between the characters 01:20:48 Lighting influences 01:27:12 Outro
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationRise Up Animation 2nd Anniversary!Rise Up Animation2022-06-06 | Hey Rise Up Fam!! In honor of our ✨2nd anniversary✨, our superstar MPR team gathered together, from all art styles and backgrounds, to create this wonderful pen passing animatic. Let’s continue to pass our pens from one to the other and Rise Up as one. Here’s to another year!
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationMeet Mariana Holtz! DTIYS Winter RUA Community Poll WinnerRise Up Animation2022-05-16 | Meet Mariana Holtz, our RUA Community Poll winner for Rise Up’s #DTIYS Winter Challenge! 🎉
Mariana is an animator and illustrator originally from Brazil. Currently an undergraduate student at Parsons School of Design, her projects include work in 2D animation, digital art, storytelling and game design. She is passionate about creating art that tells a story.
Music: “The Snowbird Strut” by Jesse GallagherDesign Your Heritage with Sandra EquihuaRise Up Animation2022-05-16 | Hey Rise Up Fam! ✊🏻✊🏽✊🏾 Join us in a conversation with Annie Award-winning character designer and illustrator, Sandra Equihua!
Known for her work in The Book of Life, El Tigre, and the acclaimed Netflix Series Maya and the Three, discover how Sandra ties in her heritage originating in Tijuana, Mexico to Los Angeles and beyond. Sandra and Bobby will also discuss how you can incorporate your cultures into your work.
Speaker: Sandra Equiha | Character Designer, Illustrator
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationMeet Diana Castillo! DTIYS Winter RUA Team Poll WinnerRise Up Animation2022-05-08 | Meet Diana Castillo, our RUA Team Poll winner for Rise Up’s #DTIYS Winter Challenge! 🎉
Diana Castillo is a Cuban Illustrator of Afro-Latin descent who loves drawing cute, diverse kids and colorful scenes. She's currently interested in picture book projects and BG Painting for animation. In her spare time, she can be found nerding out over dinosaurs, playing with her dogs and exploring new countries!
Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:01:56 About Diana 00:04:05 Thought Process 00:06:30 Most challenging part about art 00:08:52 Knowing your audience 00:12:55 Conveying emotions 00:17:05 Failing is okay 00:23:53 RUA experience 00:25:15 Animation industry
Intro Graphics by Ciara Khan-Palma | @cici.k.art Motion Graphics by Arina Yu | @ariyuedits Edited by Mari Harwitt
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Music: “The Snowbird Strut” by Jesse GallagherThe Art and Story of the Mitchells vs the MachinesRise Up Animation2022-05-01 | Calling all filmmakers! Dive into a conversation with "Mitchells Vs The Machines" superstars Guillermo Martinez and Lindsey Olivares, as they share their experiences lovingly crafting this Oscar-nominated film and give advice on storyboarding & designing for feature films!
Speakers: Guillermo Martinez | Head of Story Lindsey Olivares | Production Designer
Graphics arranged by Tiffany Yu | @tiffanyyu_art
00:00:00 Intro 00:17:04 Brainstorming and storyboards with Guillermo 00:26:10 Portfolio work and concept art with Lindsey 00:37:20 Character design 00:43:53 Production design & set design 00:49:11 Did any high effort scenes get cut? 00:53:49 Feature vs TV storyboarding 00:57:34 Finding the perfect character design 01:01:05 Creating a good portfolio 01:09:00 Leadership roles 01:19:57 Advice for students learning to work collaboratively 01:27:12 How did you overcome problems on this film? 01:34:13 What can you do to get hired? 01:46:16 Queer representation in the film
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationEditing ArcaneRise Up Animation2022-03-14 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Join us as editors, Lawrence Gan and Ernest Matamoros Cox, will engage on the hit series "Arcane" on Netlfix with us as they deep dive into their experience on the show and share their advice to aspiring editors and directors.
Speakers: Lawrence Gan | Editor, Riot Games Ernesteo Matamoros-Cox | Associate Editor, Paramount Animation
Moderator: Chinyera Johnson
Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:13:02 What did your day working on Arcane look like? 00:20:30 Combining the director’s vision with your own creative vision 00:25:10 Importance of the first images you show the audience 00:33:37 Tying in music with visuals 00:40:15 What are some of your influences? 00:47:20 Favorite scene to work on 00:51:43 Skills required to be an editor 00:56:15 Unique challenges on Arcane and the future of animation 1:05:25 Arcane and League of Legends 1:10:25 What editing software did you use? 1:12:30 Musical influences on editing 1:17:53 What is editing in animation?
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimation #Arcane #editingFebruary RecapRise Up Animation2022-03-07 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Here’s our February Recap! Check out the amazing mentees and mentors we spotlighted in February as well as panels that happened this past month.
February Icon Art by Ciara Khan-Palma | @cici.k.art
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Are you ready to Rise Up together? Join the movement by checking out our upcoming panels and visiting our social media! Website: @ Instagram: @nimation/ Facebook: @-Animation-111394517713539 Twitter: @nimation LinkedIn: @/rise-up-animation/
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationEncantos La FamiliaRise Up Animation2022-02-23 | Hola Rise Up Fam! Join us as we host creatives from Encanto's Cultural Trust - La Familia. Yvette Marino (Producer), Jorge Ruiz & Rebecca Perez Stodolny (Animation), and Juan Pablo Reyes (Creative Executive of Development) will share their experiences and the significance of cultural representation in Disney's latest hit film.
Optional: Informational links mentioned in the panel following this format: REBECCA PEREZ STODOLNY first joined Walt Disney Animation Studios to work on “Meet the Robinsons” and “Bolt.” After that she worked at multiple studios, including Pixar Animation Studios, before returning to Disney Animation in 2020 as an animator on “Raya and the Last Dragon. In addition to her animation work on “Encanto,” Perez was also part of Familia, a group of Disney Animation employees who served as a cultural resource on the film.
JUAN PABLO REYES LANCASTER JONES has been working in creative development at Walt Disney Animation Studios since 2018, and currently serves as a senior creative development executive working on a variety of feature films, shorts and animated content for streaming, television and other media. For “Encanto,” he helped to shepherd the film from its earliest stages of development, working with the filmmakers to find and develop the story, providing cultural support and writing the Art of Encanto book. Reyes has also been an active volunteer over the years in such organizations as LatinX in Animation/Latino Film Institute, a leader for Disney’s LatinX Affinity Group, and founder of the Amazon Studios LGBTQ+ Affinity Group.
JORGE E. RUIZ CANO began his career with Walt Disney Animation Studios in 2012 as an animation apprentice and assistant on Frozen. His credits include Big Hero 6, Zootopia, Moana, Ralph Breaks the Internet, Raya and the Last Dragon. As an animator, Ruiz pulled on his personal experience as he animated shots involving dancing and cooking, especially the arepas, which he cooks weekly at home. Ruiz was also part of Familia, a group of Disney Animation employees who served as a cultural resource on the film. He states, “My dad is Colombiano, my grandfathers were Colombianos; I feel this film in many dimensions.”
YVETT MERINO first came to Walt Disney Animation Studios more than 25 years ago, and has worked in numerous capacities such as production manager on Big Hero 6 and Moana. Launching her Disney Animation career in the Technology department, she moved into the world of Production as a supervisor on Tangled. She went on to work with the Stereo team on The Lion King 3D, and with various departments on Wreck-It Ralph. Merino was also a part of the team that started Voices@Disney, the Studio’s first Latinx employee resource group, where she served as co-president for two years.
La Familia Speakers: Rebecca Perez Stodolny | Animator, Walt Disney Animation Studios Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster Jones | Creative Exec of Development, Walt Disney Animation Studios Jorge E. Ruiz Cano | Animator, Walt Disney Animation Studios Yvett, Merino | Producer, Walt Disney Animation Studios
Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:05:06 What was 'La Familia' and why was it created? 00:14:12 Development of Encanto and staying culturally authentic 00:17:20 How would you encourage up-and-coming writers & artists looking to get into the animation industry to tell their own stories from their own cultures? 00:20:18 What was the most rewarding scene you got to animate? 00:29:25 What aspects of your life and upbringing did you bring to your work as an animator? 00:36:10 D&I in feature film storytelling 00:41:38 Q&A: How have you seen animation change since 'Meet The Robinsons' & 'Bolt'? 00:44:54 Q&A: How did you pick what to add from references of dancers into your animation on Encanto? 00:47:51 Q&A: Were there any characters in the movie you had a hard time developing? 00:53:13 Q&A: How did you get through creative blocks in the film? 00:56:52 Q&A: What excites you about the future of cultural diversity in animation? 01:01:16 Q&A: Political unrest in Encanto and the future of this in animation 01:06:07 Q&A: How did your families respond to the film? 01:14:27 Q&A: What went into making 'We Don't Talk About Bruno' so popular? 01:19:35 Cultural authenticity in storytelling 01:28:26 Outro
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimation #encanto #disneyStorytelling in Gravity FallsRise Up Animation2022-02-10 | Take Back the Falls! Join us for a conversation and live Q&A with Gravity Falls creatives Mike Rianda (Director-Mitchells & the Machines), Matt Braly (Creator/EP-Amphibia), and Alonso Ramirez Ramos (EP/Director-Disney TV Animation), as they share with you their experiences and work from the show and give advice on writing, storyboarding, and designing for TV animation!
Speakers: Mike Rianda - Gravity Falls - Creative Director Matt Braly - Gravity Falls - Director/Story Artist Alonso Ramirez Ramos - Gravity Falls - Story Artist / Character Designer
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationJanuary Recap ☃️Rise Up Animation2022-02-01 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Here’s our first recap of 2022! Check out the amazing mentees and mentors we spotlighted this month as well as a special tribute to Amanda Gorman’s poem, “The Hill We Climb” created by RUA alumni, Kylie Gay and Eavvon O’Neil.
Story Animatic - “The Hill We Climb” Boarded by Kylie Gay | @storybykyliegay Edited by Eavvon O’Neil | @vonstyles youtube.com/watch?v=IQJUzdKFjWs
January Icon Art by Ciara Khan-Palma | @cici.k.art
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationHoliday Recap 🎄🥳Rise Up Animation2021-12-24 | Hey Rise Up fam! Here's our very last recap of 2021 and stick around for a message from the RUA MPR Team!
Icons by Kira Rodrigues @kcjr.arts
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationFilipino-American History Month: The Making of BlushRise Up Animation2021-12-13 | Rise Up Fam! Aspiring Filmmakers! Join us as we conclude our celebration of Filipino American History Month with a deep dive into the creation of "Blush," Skydance Animation's debut short film now on Apple TV. Blush is written and directed by Skydance Animation and Disney veteran Joe Mateo.
Speaker: Joe Mateo | Director/Writer, Skydance Animation
Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:08:12 Blush Trailer 00:12:18 Joe’s Origin Story 00:45:06 Importance of personal stories 00:55:30 Finding the balance of sharing enough and giving it justice 01:01:43 How Joe dealt with so many hardships 01:07:14 Bobby’s Daily To Do List 01:09:17 Bobby’s mom! 01:18:19 Joe’s family! 01:19:53 Closing with Pets!
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationFrank E. Abney III Founder SpotlightRise Up Animation2021-12-06 | What's up Rise Up Fam! We got our next founder spotlight with Frank Abney! Check out what Frank's fun fact is... hint: 🚲
Frank E. Abney III is a California native African-American who grew up with a passion for storytelling, drawing and movies. After graduating from The Art Institute of California – San Francisco, he began working as an animator on game, film and TV projects like Tomb Raider, Disney’s Oscar-winning Frozen and Big Hero 6 and DreamWorks Animation’s Kung Fu Panda 3 and The Boss Baby. He then joined the team at Pixar, where he has collaborated on Coco, Incredibles 2, Toy Story 4, and its upcoming film, Soul. Abney recently executive produced Sony Picture Animation’s Academy Award-winning short “Hair Love” with Issa Rae, and is currently directing an animated feature film at Netflix.
Founder Spotlight: Frank E. Abney III | Director, Netflix Animation
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Mia Resella is a TV writer specializing in animation who has written for studios like Disney, Netflix, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Dreamworks, and more. Spanning the family space, Mia has enjoyed telling stories for younger kids (Disney Jr’s Emmy-award winning VAMPIRINA, Disney Jr's CHICKEN SQUAD, Netflix’s RIDLEY JONES), and older kids alike (Cartoon Network’s CRAIG OF THE CREEK, Disney’s THE GHOST AND MOLLY MCGEE, Netflix’s DEADENDIA, Nickelodeon’s MIDDLE SCHOOL MOGULS). Mia is an alum of the Nickelodeon Writing Program, and has an MFA in animation from the UCLA Animation Workshop.
Joy Regullano is a writer / actor / comedian based in LA. She is currently writing for MONSTERS AT WORK on Disney Plus. Previously, she was a staff writer on a Dreamworks / Netflix animated show (TBD 2022), and before that wrote for the Netflix kids and family show THE HEALING POWERS OF DUDE. She has also written for PBS Kids, Sesame Workshop, and was a Sesame Street writing fellow. TV acting credits include CRAZY EX-GIRLFRIEND, MODERN FAMILY, SPEECHLESS, HOUSE OF LIES, and SUPERNATURAL. She has performed improv and sketch around LA at UCB and Second City Hollywood. Her YouTube sketch WHITE FETISH went viral with 1M+ views and has been featured in the Huffington Post, Upworthy, and more.
Mikki Crisostomo was born and raised in the Philippines--and in the pages of all the fantasy novels and comic books she inhaled growing up. After coming to the USA to earn an MFA in Screenwriting at Columbia University, she participated in Film Independent's Screenwriting Lab and went on to write for Disney Channel's THE OWL HOUSE. She is currently in development with Disney TV Animation. She still can't quite believe any of this is real, but if it really is a dream, please don't wake her up!
Speakers: Mikki Crisostomo | Staff Writer, Disney TV Animation Mia Resella | Staff Writer, Disney TV Animation Joy Regullano | Staff Writer, DreamWorks Animation
Guest Co-Host: Kira Rodrigues | Creative Visual Developer, Connected Media
Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:4:54 What inspired you to become a writer? 00:13:07 What do you like to write? 00:20:00 Most Rewarding and Challenging parts of Writing? 00:28:45 What is a Writer's Room Like? 00:39:15 Does your Filipino culture influence your stories? 00:46:55 Joy's Writing Process on "Supportive White Parents" 00:50:50 Advice for aspiring writers 00:59:22 (Q&A) Cristina: Favorite project you've worked on? 01:04:00 (Q&A) Kristine: What are some specific resources to help us improve writing for animation? 01:07:34 Do you recommend reading pilot scripts? 01:10:01 What are your favorite well-written shows that you're loving right now?
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Website: https://www.sketchuju.cz/ilustrace Bio https://www.sketchuju.cz/about Instagram: www.instagram.com/sketchuju
Art Credits! DTIYS Theme illustrations by @alexuntoriaart RollerSkates Icons by @kcjr.arts Snow graphics by Melissa Mims
Timestamps: 0:00 Opening 0:12 Introduce yourself! 0:24 What prompted you to participate in this challenge? 0:44 #DTIYS Challenge 1:37 What inspires your art style? 2:09 Why do you create specifically for animation? 3:02 What has your experience been like with RUA? 3:46 Rapid fire round! 4:29 Closing + next DTIYS challenge hint
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Music Credit: “Revenge Body Beat” - Nana Kwabena “Rocktop” - Audionautix “Holly Dazed” - RKVC#DTIYS Challenge RUA Team Poll Winner Feature: Lexi AcevedoRise Up Animation2021-11-13 | Meet the RUA Team Poll winner for Rise Up’s Summer 2021 #DTIYS Challenge: Lexi Acevedo! 🎉
Lexi Acevedo is a 25 year old Latinx writer and artist from Texas living and working in North Hollywood. They love creating art and stories that let people know they’re not alone—and that there’s always gonna be someone there to walk in their weird with them.
Featured: Lexi Acevedo | Copywriter, Viacom CBS | @lex_is_more
Art Credits! DTIYS Theme illustrations by @alexuntoriaart RollerSkates Icons by @kcjr.arts Snow graphics by Melissa Mims
Timestamps: 0:00 Opening 0:12 Introduce yourself! 0:24 What prompted you to participate in this challenge? 0:44 #DTIYS Challenge 1:37 What inspires your art style? 2:09 Why do you create specifically for animation? 3:02 What has your experience been like with RUA? 3:46 Rapid fire round! 4:29 Closing + next DTIYS challenge hint
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Music Credit: “Revenge Body Beat” - Nana Kwabena “Rocktop” - Audionautix “Holly Dazed” - RKVCFilipino-American History Month: Designing for MoviesRise Up Animation2021-11-08 | Rise Up Fam! Aspiring concept artists! Join us as we celebrate Filipino American History Month with a deep dive into Designing for Movies!
Speakers: Armand Serrano | Production Designer, Skydance Animation | @armand_serrano Anthony Francisco | Creative Director, Dolphin Entertainment | @anthony_francisco_art Ricky Nierva | Founder, Studio Ipil | @rickynierva
Timestamps 00:00:00 Intro 00:01:40 Armand’s Intro 00:04:44 Anthony’s Intro 00:06:56 Ricky’s Intro 00:15:51 Bobby going to the Philippines after 15 years 00:20:06 What movies inspired you to become an artist? 00:36:30 Advice for others? 00:54:18 What's missing in portfolios? 00:59:35 How can I start? 01:16:33 Finding my style 01:24:16 Diversity vs consistency / draftsmanship / style 01:05:12 How do you develop these skills? 02:00:03 What is the importance as an artist of considering novelty as you create your own design or own character? 02:19:57 What's your opinion as animators about Japanese animation? 02:13:53 How do I get in touch with a wider Filipino and Filipino-American Animation community to help contribute to telling stories around our culture?
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationWomen In 3D ArtRise Up Animation2021-11-06 | Hello Rise Up Fam! We are honored to welcome @3d.divas, an Instagram account, dedicated to empower and put the spotlight on some of the many Amazing female 3D Artists. Panelists will share their personal experiences as women in 3D art and their journey in animation / VFX, as well as any difficulties and advice they may have for others on a similar path.
Speakers: Nikie Monteleone | USA , Lead Look Development Artist at Nickelodeon Leticia Gillett | Brazil, Character Modeling Supervisor at Walt Disney Animation Studios Melody Romero | USA, Environment modeler at Walt Disney Animation Studios Mariam Hamed | Egypt, Effects Artist at Walt Disney Animation Studios Kristin Müller | Germany, Lead Animator at Sony Picture Imageworks
Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:08:04 Women in Animation History 00:08:54 What inspired you to become a 3D Artist? 00:27:31 Has the 50:50 Animation workforce balance been reached? 00:38:46 Have you ever experienced in instances where you felt underestimated? 00:44:23 Have you ever had to prove yourself? 01:27:50 What would be your advice to someone who wants to pursue animation as a career?
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationOctober RecapRise Up Animation2021-11-01 | Happy Halloween Rise Up Fam! Here is a spoopy recap of all the uploaded panels for the month of October in case you missed any as well as upcoming videos for November!
Halloween Icons by @kcjr.arts
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Music: Kindergarden - Coyote HearingAnimation Podcast: What Every Animation Student Should KnowRise Up Animation2021-10-26 | Please join us as we welcome our friends from the @animationhappyhour podcast! Garrett, Katie, and Ben will help answer one of the questions most often asked by students, “Is there anything you wish you knew when you were a student that you know now?” Their informative panel will take this opportunity to answer that question and try to hit on the most important things that every animation student should know.
Garrett Lewis is a character animator currently working at Walt Disney Animation Studios. He has worked as an animator for various games, visual effects, and feature films including Frozen 2, How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, and Abominable.
Katie Low is an assistant animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios. In the past, Katie has worked as a stop motion intern at LAIKA, and production assistant at both Blue Sky Studios and WDAS. Her credits include Frozen 2, Ralph Breaks the Internet, and The Story of Ferdinand.
Ben Girmann is a character animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios. His credits include How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, Abominable, and Trolls World Tour. Before working at Disney, Ben spent time at DreamWorks, Blue Sky, Laika, Hornet, and Psyop.
Speakers: Garrett Lewis | Character Animator, Walt Disney Animation Studios Katie Low | Assistant Animator, Walt Disney Animation Studios Ben Girmann | Character Animator, Walt Disney Animation Studios
Time Stamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:55 Garrett’s Intro 00:03:52 Katie’s origin story 00:15:32 Ben’s Intro 00:22:45 About The Animation Happy Hour 00:27:25 Things you wished you knew in school 00:40:24 Developing a Growth Mindset 00:47:44 Most Improved Player 00:53:00 Inspirations? 01:02:00 Asking for Help and Getting Feedback 01:20:00 Eggs in a Basket 01:30:55 Their Stories 02:08:11 Figuring out what discipline you want to work in. 02:08:52 Animation Pipeline 02:11:50 Katie switching from Pre-Med to Animation 02:16:32 Relocating to California 02:20:13 Relocating Internationally 02:22:57 Q & A 02:29:11 Biggest win working in Animation 02:41:18 Q & A 02:50:43 Pursuit of Happiness Moment 03:01:23 Closing Remarks
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationFounder Spotlight: Monica Lago-KaytisRise Up Animation2021-10-11 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Did you guys guess who our next founder spotlight is? If you guessed Monica, you got it!
Monica Lago-Kaytis is a Latin-American producer born in Hollywood, CA. She joined Walt Disney Animation Studios in 1994 for the film Pocahontas and continued to work in a wide variety of production roles on traditional, CG and stereoscopic animated films including Hercules, Meet The Robinsons and The Princess and The Frog. She served as Associate Producer on Wreck-It Ralph and Zootopia then made her live-action debut with Netflix’s The Christmas Chronicles. Her talent for casting put Kurt Russell at the top of the list for his now iconic performance as Santa Claus.
Bobby Pontillas is a Filipino-American artist that has worked in the animation and games industries as an animator, character designer, art director, and director for such studios as Disney, Taiko, Blue Sky, ArenaNet and more. He is an Academy Award nominated director for the animated short film, “One Small Step.” Bobby is currently developing animated projects for the Disney Channel and Disney Plus.
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationHispanic Heritage Month with Juan Pablo Reyes and Carlos Lopez EstradaRise Up Animation2021-09-30 | Hey Rise Up Fam! 🎉 In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, join us for a conversation with Walt Disney Animation Studio’s Juan Pablo Reyes and Carlos Lopez Estrada!
Juan Pablo is proudly from Guadalajara, Mexico. He has a background in engineering and art publishing, and has been working in development for both tv and film over the past eight years. His latest project is the upcoming Disney Animation film ENCANTO, releasing November 2021.
Carlos Lopez Estrada, co-director of Raya and The Last Dragon, is a Mexican-American filmmaker, music video director, commercial director, theatre director and actor.
Speakers: Juan Pablo Reyes | Creative Development, Walt Disney Animation Studios Carlos Lopez Estrada | Director, Walt Disney Animation Studios
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationDesign Trainee: Program 101Rise Up Animation2021-09-20 | Hey Rise Up Fam! Join us and learn about what it takes to be in a Design Trainee Program with Alyssa Taylor, Shannon Parayil, and Abigail Muñoz!
Speakers: Alyssa Taylor | Netflix Design Trainee, Alumni Shannon Parayil | Nick Artist Program, Alumni Abigail Muñoz | Nick Artist Program, Alumni
Moderator: Angela Entzminger | TV Writer, Artist, and Story Board Revisionist
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Inspire. Educate. Create. #RiseUpAnimationStoryboard Trainee Programs 101Rise Up Animation2021-09-13 | Hey Rise Up Fam! 🚂 Get on board with Storyboard Trainee Programs 101 and learn about what it takes to be a storyboard trainee in the animation industry!
Speakers: Hillary Bradfield | Storyboard Artist, Walt Disney Animation Studios | @hillary_bradfield Mark Galez | Storyboard Director, Netflix | @mark.geee Jake Kim | Storyboard Artist, Wild Canary Animation | @jakekimstory Apollonia Vick | Storyboard Revisionist, Netflix | @apolloniavick
Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:06:41 What do you put in a Story Portfolio? 00:17:00 How do you prep for the interview? 00:26:13 What did you do in your programs? 00:37:00 Importance of sharpening your writing skills 00:47:35 What happens when your training program is over? 00:55:47 How did you deal with stress, imposter syndrome, anxiety? 01:09:16 What are the fundamentals that are needed to get into the training program? 01:16:30 Getting to the final round of a trainee program? 01:18:16 Tailoring your portfolio 01:23:26 Are the training programs open to international students? 01:24:42 How often does this mentorship program last in a given time? 01:27:07:23 Advice on getting your first gig
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis
Thumbnail BG from Jake KimThe Superhero Project!Rise Up Animation2021-09-12 | Hey Rise Up Fam! 🎉 Meet Lisa Kollins, Melissa Cho, and Eric Pabon and learn about how you can join The Superhero Project!
"Launched in 2017, The Superhero Project interviews kids and teens with serious illnesses and special needs about their superhero alter egos – what they stand for, what powers they have, what they look like and how they make the world a better place. The storytelling collaboration continues when artists design the characters the children have described, creating a visual representation of their strength, courage and resilience. Families receive inspiring posters of their superheroes to treasure forever." -superheroprojectkids.org
Speakers from The Superhero Project: Lisa Kollins | Founder/ Director Eric Pabon | Artist/ Graphic Designer Melissa Cho | Senior Designer
00:00:00 Intro to The Superhero Project 00:16:36 The Process 00:18:58 Creating the designs 00:24:25 Artistic collaborations and responses 00:29:13 Exhibits 00:35:25 The artist experience 00:37:40 What inspired the start of this project? 00:42:45 What inspires the artists? 00:46:00 Inclusivity and participation 00:54:42 Most memorable experiences 1:01:56 Inclusivity in media
Rise Up Animation Founders: Bobby Pontillas Frank Abney Trent Correy Monica Lago-Kaytis