What is your name and your current occupation?Â
Perry L J Osuna, Independent Designer, 2D Animator and Storyboard artist .
What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
I had a job selling chocolate cover amond’s, door to door at double the price you’d usually get a box for normally. They drove us around in a small school bus to different neighbourhood’s to petal their over priced chocolates. The biggest joke about the job was the pay.
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
I worked on this independent project. It’s called the Mosaik Project, the idea was to showcase some of Toronto ( Canada ) talent base. The funny thing is I almost didn’t get the gig. I was asked to design Toronto but from a robotic view point. I was told I couldn’t use any existing robot designs concepts, everything needed to be original. I’m sure anyone who designs will agree this kind situation doesn’t happen often. I had full creative range with respect to the clients final approval . In the end the client was very happy with the work.
How did you become interested in animation?
I listened to a lot music growing up . I use to day dream about how fun it would to make a music video for some of the music I liked. Although I wasn’t sure how to go about doing any of it.
Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?Â
I’m originally from the West Indies, Trinidad to be exact. Moved to Canada when I was twelve. Attended a art High School where I took a few art class because I figured it would be a easy credit since I liked to draw . When I near the end of high I had a friend suggest I should enroll in animation school, so I did. I wasn’t easy but I got in Sheridan College 2D Classical program.
What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?Â
I get up play with my two little girls . Then off to the basement to get started on whatever project I’m working on. I usually do research on whatever it is I’m working on. Then I start thumb nailing out possible ideas, these are usually very rough. After I’m done with the thumb nailing I refine them down and then pass them to the client for approval. The typical stuff, the only difference I guess from me and everyone else out is I prefer to do my work on paper if at all possible .
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
The part of the job I love the most is that I get to do something I love . Not too many people can say that about their job.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
I would have to say that the really cool projects that I’ve been lucky to work on were shorter than I would have liked.
What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?
I use pencil and paper photoshop, flash and sometimes illustrator. Honestly whatever it takes to get the job done right.
I honestly haven’t had any travels related to animation. Though I can say I have been fortunate to have crossed the path of Chuck Gammage, Charlie Bonifacio, Richard Williams, and master animator Dan Haskett.
Too many to choose from, plus I’m sure no one wants to hear my sob stories.
I can’t think of any unusual hobbies or skills that would be worth mentioning .
The best advice I can give is be true to yourself . The only limitations you have are the one’s you set and always strive for perfection. The last thing I can would say is spread love and compassion because the world has enough hate in it already.
