Character Design and Artistic Growth: Insights from Emma Gillette

Character Design and Artistic Growth: Insights from Emma Gillette

Author: School of Motion: Design & Animation Training for MoGraph Artists February 21, 2024 Duration: 59:42

In our latest podcast episode, Emma Gillette, a professional illustrator and instructor of the newly released Character Design Fundamentals course, shares her experiences and insights, providing actionable lessons for fellow artists and designers.

Check out the corresponding blog post: https://www.schoolofmotion.com/blog/emma-gillette

 

Show Notes

Emma Gillette

People

Brent Adams

Sam Nielson

Maike Plenzke

Maxine Vee

Cory Loftis

Pieces

SpongeBob SquarePants

Encanto (2021)

Hercules (1997)

Tangled (2010)

Frozen (2013)

Moana (2016)

The Boxtrolls (2014)

Homer Simpson 3D by Miguel Vasquez

Monster High

Resources

Brigham Young University Animation Program


Tune into the School of Motion Podcast for a genuine look behind the scenes of the motion design industry. Created by the team at School of Motion, this series goes far beyond simple software tutorials, though you’ll certainly find deep dives into tools like After Effects and Cinema 4D. The real value lies in conversations with the people shaping the field-from working animators and 3D artists to producers and studio owners. Each episode explores the intricate balance between creative artistry and practical business, offering insights that are as useful for freelancers as they are for those leading creative teams. Whether you’re firmly established in your career or just 3D-curious, this podcast provides a thoughtful space to learn about craft, workflow, and sustaining a creative practice. It’s a resource that feels like having a direct line to the collective wisdom of a vibrant community, all dedicated to the art of making things move.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

School of Motion Podcast
Podcast Episodes
The HONEST Truth About Motion Design in 2025 | Year in Review [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:49:25
It's that time of year again—the School of Motion End of Year Podcast is here, and this one is our longest yet... by a lot. Buckle up for an in-depth look at everything that shaped motion design in 2025, and a look ahead…
How to Turn Your Creative Anxiety Into Your Biggest Advantage [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:15
What if the things that make you anxious are actually pointing you toward your greatest strengths? School of Motion Creative Director EJ Hassenfratz shares his talk from the Motion Plus Design conference in New York City…
How to Build a Tutorial Empire Like Ben Marriott [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:30
We got Ben Marriott on the podcast, and honestly, it's about time...Ben's one of the best tutorial creators out there for After Effects and motion design, and his journey from freelance illustrator to full-time YouTuber…
Nikola Wonder Dynamics [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:06
In the sea of surface-level chatter about AI and filmmaking, Nikola Todorovic is saying the quiet part out loud—and it's the stuff creative pros actually need to hear. Check out the corresponding blog post with our key t…
Why Moonvalley's Approach to AI Video Makes Sense [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:21:26
Most AI video companies are gambling with copyright law. Moonvalley made a different bet. Check out the corresponding blog post with highlights here: http://www.schoolofmotion.com/blog/mo... Real talk: Most AI video comp…
Mack Garrison, Dash Studio, and Building Creative Community [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:11:52
Joey recently caught up with the main dude behind Dash Studio, Mack Garrison, for an episode of the School of Motion podcast that's creative rocket fuel. These two industry veterans dive into everything from bizarre care…
Already Been Chewed and the Journey to Motion Design Success [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:41
EJ jams with Barton Damer, the creative muscle behind Already Been Chewed (ABC)...basically the Tony Hawk of motion design. This dude turned his skateboarding obsession into a full-blown 3D animation studio that now cran…