For the LIAF project, I had the luxury of directing a team. I gained valuable insight as to what it means to complete a brief for a client. Animating has been a gateway for me to share my ideas in the form of moving image.
My goal is to be an Independent freelance filmmaker/animator. This appeals to me due to the freedom this role gives you. Global companies have an innate risk adverse culture due to client politics/culture.
Ozzy Parker
Ozzy Parker, an independent stop motion animator, has been a huge inspiration for me. Having access to his craftsmanship and creative opinion has helped to develop my animations. One project in particular I want to expand on is ‘SCALA!!! Tentacles’ a fantastical retelling of a woman’s story working behind the ticket office. This short film uses a unique daring approach to stop motion, by using real squids. He has an unafraid attitude, willing to disturb his audience by taking things further.
This role as independent filmmaker and part time teacher is something I am interested in. Other than being a child, Art University I believe is one of the only places in which you are permitted to play again. This sense of play is innate to the way I work. What Ozzy has shown me is through attaining both freelancing and lecturing, you can keep that play alive.
Chris Shepherd & David Shrigley
On 4th November I had the chance to attend ‘Bar Shorts’ an event run by Chris Shepherd. Chris & David revisited past projects, collaborative and solo, going back some 15 years ago. They also spoke about what independent filmmaking has meant to them. From 20 minute long documentaries about screaming goats to minimalist animation shorts about smoking blunts, the pair showed the importance of collaborating with friends.