You got that right. It’s something I love and hate at the same time, because I’m always hoping to come across that “diamond in the rough”, but you do have to wade through a lot of mediocre reels to find it. But when you spot that talent it’s a great feeling, a great moment because you’re usually very entertained anyway by their work. Then the race is on to get that animator because all the other studios he/she sent reels to will be having the same idea right about then.

So, advice for character animators regarding demo reels. (You have probably heard most or all of this before but that’s only because it’s true…)

1. Only put your best work on your reel
2. Keep your reel <= 5 min
3. Keep it simple
4. Acting and dialogue are a must
5. Timing/mass/weight are also important
6. If you can tell a story, it helps (A long pastiche of quick edits from various works is not as favorable as a shorter linear sequence with some kind of narrative)

 Of course it all depends on what kind of job you are looking for, but these are things I look for now after many years of watching reels.

Q: Who would you cite as one of the biggest influences in your career?

            There have been so many great people I’ve worked with over the years, it would be hard to single out any one person. I’m just grateful to have had to opportunity to absorb so much knowledge and work with artists and professionals I used to read about as a teenage fanboy of the history of animation and CG. Certainly though I should say that my wife Julia has been a hugely positive influence throughout my career, she has been incredibly supportive and she keeps my feet on the ground while inspiring me all at the same time. : )

Q: What animated film (from any period) would you have liked to be a part of?

Probably something like Jason and the Argonauts or Golden Voyage of Sinbad with Harryhausen.
(I should have mentioned those films in the question about influences, because they had great influence on me growing up.)
The battle with the skeletal warriors in JATA made my jaw drop as a kid, and even though that animation may look a little dated now, back when I was young it was one of the most amazing and spectacular things I had ever seen, and I still love that memory of seeing it for the first time. All of those films were great accomplishments for thier time, if nothing else for the sheer number of characters Ray brought to life in each one.

Q: Can you leave a question for the next Featured Artist?

 What (type of) project would you like to be involved with next and why?

 Q: What active artist would you like to see featured on Strut?

Hal Hickel.
Michel Gagne.

Thanks so much John!

My pleasure, thanks for having me on the site