Endorsements

For a young person contemplating how to land the coveted “dream job,” the road to the future can seem bleak, long and downright scary. That’s one of the many reasons mentors are so important. An experienced voice of reason can make all the difference in helping someone get a start in an industry, which is why I am such a fan of the Animator Letters Project. I plan to write a letter to Willie, and if you work in the animation industry, I urge you to consider participating, too.

-Brenda Chapman,

Writer, director, original writer-director of Disney-Pixar’s Brave

(Source: Brenda Chapman’s blog.)

If only there had been something like this when I was growing up. The people I admired in this industry seemed untouchable. Not anymore, thanks to Willie and his Animator Letters Project. Willie has brought people, who’s dream it is to get into animation, so much closer to having that dream fulfilled. And thanks to all those professionals out there who have contributed to this project. You haven’t forgotten where you came from. I hope everyone in this industry contributes to this project. Thanks again Willie for giving this opportunity to our future talent.

-Dale L. Baer,

Supervising animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios

Willie Downs has accomplished what few would dare dream–he’s gotten animators to communicate in words rather than imagery. Words of encouragement, none the less! Too often, the emphasis in the animation industry is on job openings, technology, and the competitive side of things. It’s nice to have a place for animators to share their knowledge and experience, putting industry aside for community. If you’re a professional animator, please consider contributing to The Animator Letters Project. It only takes a few minutes to hand-write a letter, but you never know who you may inspire!

-Austin Madison,

Animator at Pixar Animation Studios

For any budding artists dipping their toes into that vast pool known as the animation industry, Willie’s project will give them that little push they need to jump right in…Willie’s Big Idea is already such a positive influence on so many young talents that it’s a no-brainer for any professional animator in the industry to contribute.

-Jeff Joe,

Animator at PDI/ DreamWorks Animation Studios

I’ve been aware of The Animator Letters Project since its inception and have been happy to share it with my students, friends and colleagues. Willie Downs has dedicated himself to developing the project as an inspirational resource for everyone striving to reach a professional level with their skills and breaking into the animation industry. Even if you’re already in the business you can appreciate reading through the collective wisdom embodied in the motivational hand written notes that many of today’s great animation artists have contributed for the benefit of us all. Thanks very much Willie for the initiative you’ve taken to get The Animation Letters Project going and thanks to the animation professionals who’ve reached out to us with their written word, personal stories and encouragement.

-Charles Zembillas,

The Animation Academy, AnimationNation.com

*If you would like to endorse this project with a statement to be displayed here on this site, then please email it to me at wfdowns3@gmail.com. Thank you!