My name is Sarah Jargstorf and I’m a 3d artist and animator. Currently I’m working as a 3D modelor at Arc Productions in Toronto.What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
I really don’t think any of my part-time gigs during high school and college can compare to animation. They were just your typical retail, amusement park and factory work. Though I’ll never forget the day I was working at the Toronto Islands and I witnessed a seagull swallow a WHOLE footlong hotdog, in one gulp. Shocking. Little bugger was determined.
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
I’ve had the pleasure of animating on My Little Pony. I’ve been fortunate to work on a lot of fun tv shows but My Little Pony was a real treat.
How did you become interested in animation?Growing up on Bugs Bunny, Batman, TMNT, Disney Classics and Sailor Moon definitely contributed. I’ve always loved to draw and when I found out animation was dedicated to life drawing, the study of movement and visual storytelling, I was captivated. It had it all.
Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
I’m from Toronto, Canada and a graduate of the classical animation program at Sheridan. My first job took me to Vancouver animating at Studio B, now called DHX.
What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
coffee, coffee, coffee ^_^
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
There’s always a new way to do something in 3d. It amazes me. I learn something new everyday.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
When Maya crashes, because it usually happens when there’s a deadline.
What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?
Maya, the Adobe Production Suite and I still fall back on good’ ol Flash for roughing out animation. I luv my cintiq and a good hard cover spiral-bound sketchbook.
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
The uncertainty of contract work has always been a challenge. Finding a balance between life-life vs. work-life.
In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
Not personally no, but I’ve attended some wonderful lectures and workshops by some celebs over the years which have been very inspiring. I would definitely like to travel more.
Describe a tough situation you had in life.
Life is tough.. but never having a cool enough catwoman costume as a kid – those were tough times. After a couple years of sabotaged attempts,(my mom at the last minute would always make me wear my snow suit underneath – everytime, cause it would always snow in Ont.), I realized zombies were way easier/warmer costumes.
Any side projects you’re working on that you’d like to share details of?
I really enjoy life drawing so I go when-ever I can. I completed a short film last year, Keiko, which embodied a lot of my personal work. I’m just ramping up now for my next effort so its still in very early stages.
Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
I despise cilantro. Can’t eat the stuff. So at the moment I’m working on perfecting a guacamole recipe.
Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
Make everything your own.