Michael Donahue, Animation, Fall 2022, Expected Graduation Fall 2023

https://fmx298.santiago.bz/mdonahue/wp-admin/

During my childhood, I had many different passions, but never knew which path was right for me. In high school, I was really interested in short films and shot with friends to submit to Florida film festivals. Although this was something I found that boosted my desire for the arts, but I knew there were other forms of art that I found more interesting. I began my career at UT asd a graphic design major, but after one year, I quickly realized that was not meant for me. I was happy I was lead to animation after taking an illustration class, because I would not be on the career path that I am on today without it. I have taken many classes regarding different graphics programs, but my strengths lie in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop. These two programs are my favorites for creating digital art, which I think aids to my talents.

Since my earlier years of education, I have always desired to be able to express my creativity and artistic abilities. At UT, I have been able to grow artistically while improving my overall education, although it has not been without help. Santiago Echeverry is brutally honest and tells me exactly what I need to know in order to improve my work. His level of care for his students, including myself, has helped me take initiative and work harder, knowing he truly cared for my future. Digital Illustration, taught by Chip Neville, helped me realize my desired career path. He taught me the skills required to create digital art. My love for illustration was produced from this class.

I would love to improve my skills in 3D animation, specifically in programs such as Cinema 4D, Maya, and ZBrush. Improving my skills in these programs will ultimately help me improve my portfolio as whole and lead me to better opportunities after graduation. My lack of training stems from my love for 2D animation, which is where my focus has been based throughout my time in school. I will continue my study of these programs through online sources after completing my classes regarding them.

After graduation, I hope to get a job within 2D animation as well as utilizing programs like Photoshop and Illustrator on the side with freelancing. Within 2D I would like to work on a storyboard team or get a job with character design.