Barry Atkinson


What is your name and your current occupation? 
Barry Atkinson , Art Director Disney Toons.

 

What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
I was a child actor in my Dads educational films.

 

What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
In animation , Heavy Metal, An American tail, Lion King, Tinkerbell.  Personal projects, Directed short film “Into Darkness’ and directed live action film “Through Golden Fields”.

How did you become interested in animation?
From my Dad and classic Disney animation, Chuck Jones.

Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
I’m from Ottawa Canada .I was born into the business. My Dad created and owed the second largest animation studio “Atkinson Film Arts” in Canada.

What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job? 
Cup of coffee 8 am., meetings, designing, meetings, more designing, meetings, coffee, designing, go home around 7 or 8 pm. Work some more at home till 11pm.

What part of your job do you like best? Why?

designing, Creating Art. There is great satisfaction creating an idea in your mind and bringing it to fruition.

What part of your job do you like least? Why?

Meetings and more meetings, difficult directors.

What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?

I work usually with photoshop on a PC.
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?  
Politics, unrealistic deadlines and ego’s.

In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?

On Heavy Metal I worked with an amazing comic artist Juan Gimenez, Dreamworks with Mike Ploog. At Don Bluth I was lucky to work with Roland  B Wilson. And of course my Dad.
Any side projects or you’re working on or hobbies you’d like to share details of?
I sculpt fantasy creatures for fun and plein air paintings.
Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
form time to time I create special effects animatronic makeup and props for independent films.

Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?

Work hard, Listen to advice and always be your own critic. Pick an artist you admire and strive to be that or better.
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3 Comments

  1. Hello, my name is Josiah Grigsby. I am attempting to make a sweatshirt with this wonderful attached image, but i would need permission. I am looking to create a one of a kind sweatshirt that guides the mind to drift away from the norm. If this would be possible could you please email me.
    Thanks. Josiah.

    P.S. Just realized i can’t attach a photo. The photo i would love to have permission to print on to a sweatshirt is the_grey_alien. I want to make two sweatshirts one for myself and one for my Dad.

  2. Hi Care Bear E.

    Wonderful stuff!
    NEEDS UPDATEING,
    Maby you have seen before.
    Here is My old site;

    http://home.att.ne.jp/blue/patchan/CareBearsFolder/CareBear.html

    Patrick Connolly

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