What is your name and your current occupation?
Steve “SKETCH” Vallino. Avid Editor
What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
Basic warehouse gigs, rental yards. Then got into ceramic painting for a bit.
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
He-Man 2002 reboot and Strawberry Shortcake 2010 reboot.
How did you become interested in animation?
Always loved it as a kid and my ability to draw half way decent. What could be a better job?
Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
The Valley, CA. Persistence. Tried since High School to get my foot in the door. Finally got lucky with the help of a friend.
What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
Some days are run of the mill busy work and some are full of creative panic! Either way, it’s always fun. Hell, it beats Wall mart.
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
Working with the Director to solve problems and make the show flow better. It’s like a giant puzzle that can be put together many ways.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
It’s all pretty sweet. Even when the Avid is rendering boring work, I can read a book.
What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?
Avid Media Composer and Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, and Premiere.
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
Well I have had a great run at my current studio, but the idea of looking for a new gig always sucks.
In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
Well, I think I have been fortunate enough to work with some great, creative people.
Describe a tough situation you had in life.
Oh, you name it: Broken home,Cancer, Diabetes, missing Brother. The list keeps rolling but you beat that beast down and Rock on.
Any side projects or you’re working on or hobbies you’d like to share details of?
I am a huge fan of Robert Williams and lowbrow Art. I just finished a film I shot/edited of Williams at the LA Art Fair.
Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
Do physical deformities count? I have a huge lump on my broken collar bone that works as a kick ass camera strap holder.
Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
Keep on trying and don’t give up. This industry is as great as it sounds, it can just be tough to get your foot in the door so take any position you can get, show your general interest and enthusiasm, and you will go far!
