What is your name and your current occupation?
Raquel Omana. I am now a freelance artist.
What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
I was Interior Designer.
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
Most popular old Saturday morning cartoons, Teenage mutant Ninja Turtles, Scooby Doo, My Little Pony and many more; First educational games that started the Sony Play Station; film features, Anastasia and Titan AE.
How did you become interested in animation?
It was more alluring to me at the time.
Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
I’m originally from the Philippines. At that time, a new animation company owned by Burbank Studios, Australia was looking for artists to train as Animators. I was the first 5 to be hired
What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
My mac, a lot of research and more deadlines to catch.
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
I like working with colors. I was an animator and it didn’t quite make me at ease with just working with lines.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
It’s knowing that I did a good job but my supervisor doesn’t think so.
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
Stress. Time constraints. Some styles I couldn’t quite get fast enough (UGH!)
What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?
Photoshop
In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
I was given the opportunity to work with the famous 3 (out of a few) ol’ men of Disney. Also meeting artists with unbelievable talents that I never would have imagined.
Describe a tough situation you had in life.
The economic downturn left me jobless, and gave up my home.
Any side projects or you’re working on or hobbies you’d like to share details of?
I’m starting an online shop that involves a lot of painting, comics and other art expressions.
Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
Yeah, collecting scorpions, spiders and baby snakes, similar critters you often see in 116 degree desert.
Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
Animation is fun! Just don’t get caught up in the grind.
