What is your name and your current occupation?
My name is Matt Siditsky and I am currently an animator/designer and independent filmmaker.
What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
Nothing out of the ordinary. Worked at a clothing store and a couple of arts and crafts stores. I also worked as a custom framer which was my favorite job before I got into the entertainment industry.
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
That is a tough question. I have honestly loved most of the projects I have been fortunate enough to work on. I do tend to enjoy projects with a lot of experimental freedom more than the norm.
Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
That would be my fathers influence. He was an executive at Disney for 30 years which impacted me greatly. After observing my strong interest in art he brought me home Stan Lee’s How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way. He taught me how to draw through objects and always, always encouraged me to be creative. He still challenges me to this day. Thanks dad.
What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
Right now there are no typical days because I’m working on a lot of small projects all at once. In general I like to get a strong start early in the A.M. I always have my calendar handy because every week has quite a few different deadlines from different studios and clients. There are late nights as well…coffee is my friend.
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
It’s the simple things really. At the core of it I enjoy problem solving with colors, shapes and movement. I love creating art, so I am always technically working on and off the clock.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
The hours can be random. One week you’ll work 20 hours, the next you’ll work 80. That’s show biz for ya.
What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis, how has technology changed in the last few years in your field and how has that impacted you in your job?
All of my days involve the internet, a fast computer and a Cintiq. It is always mind blowing to me how good we have it with the technology of today. It allows me to take on much more at once – and busy is always a good thing!
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
Most projects are short and I’m a sentimental guy.
In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
Totally – I’ve had the pleasure of hanging out with Don Hahn who is one of my favorite film makers of all time. I can’t even say enough great things about him. I’ve also met Tim Burton – another one of my favorite artists. I’ll also never forget interning on Camp Lazlo with Joe Murray during my college years. He was a great mentor and huge inspiration.
Describe a tough situation you had in life.
One Friday evening I was notified that Snoop Dogg was to be meeting with us that Sunday. We were to present a game proposal – a game proposal that did not exist yet, I might add. My team and I worked our tails off all weekend and had a kickass game designed by Sunday afternoon.
Any side projects you’re working on that you’d like to share details of?
Oh yes! Of course I have to mention my annual Christmas shorts. I am currently working on my latest episode.
Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
Hmm, this is not really a talent or hobby – but definitely unusual…Most of my dreams are musicals, complete with end credits.
Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
A common misconception is that one must follow a cookie cutter model to make your mark and be successful. It is essential to know what you love and commit to a goal. From there it is up to you on how you get there.
