Kathy Tessalone

What is your name and your current occupation?  
Kathy Tessalone, animation producer .

What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation? 
Dressing up in a character costume at six flags

What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?    
I used to be a make-up artist before the teaching and producing, so I had some favorite shoots where I could do halloween characters, and an uncle sam and other fantasy and fictional characters. Also I have two professional credits as a make-up artist that Im proud of. My name is in the IMDB, you can referance to that.
How did you become interested in animation? 
I used to work as a teacher for special education,which inturn gave me the inspiration to an idea to do do this animated project, but at first I

was a make-up artist for the movie industry then spoke to people ,which led into animation.

Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
Im from Los Angeles,California, native born. My father was a prop man and got into make-up through him, and eventually into the animation business.

What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
Well when I started producing the 14 min screener, I had to organize the whole set up process, such as pre-production,the actual production,then the post-production. Then after the short film was finished, the other important half is marketing and promoting it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXYxuguxLVE

What part of your job do you like best? Why?
Everthing!! to be able to create is one of the greatest joys and blessings a person can have. Im able to send a positive message to kids through my film or tv series.

What part of your job do you like least? Why?
The least part is the financing the project. The reason is its difficult to keep putting out money for a long time and waiting until it hits. Also the rejection. ( I always knew my project was original and wholesome,something you cant find to much on tv or in movies and always knew it will become something)

What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
Getting the project either sold or funded.

What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?
Interestingly , Ive been using a new,innovative and experimental technology of animation for this project. Its kind of like avatar, but wth a 3G and video game look.

In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
Yes, one of the co-creators of a very popular tv series back in the late 80’s , early 90’s called “Ren and Stimpy”. Also Ive been in touch with one of the animators of another early 90’s tv show called “Animaniacs”. They both have won Emmys.

Describe a tough situation you had in life.
I had a very tough financial crisis back in 04″, almost lost my house.

Any side projects or you’re working on or hobbies you’d like to share details of?
I  also own a candy vending business.

Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
no unusual talents or hobbies.

Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
Never give up. I also have a faith in Jesus, and he has carried through the thick and thin and all the way to this point and forever.

http://wickidpissa.posterous.com/its-a-dogs-world-new-animation-project-seekin