What is your name and your current occupation?
Hi! My name is Ersi Spathopoulou, and right now I’m working as a conceptual artist for a 2d animation educational game, called “Run Marco†and developed by allcancode team, www.allcancode.com
What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
I worked as an assistant theater stage designer right after finishing my studies. But that ain’t really crazy..is it? L. Sorry, no crazy stories here! Stage design was more like a first step required by my “fate†of ending up in the animation industry, working as a background painter.
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?Most definitely the website at www.animad.gr, which was created by animad team, of which I was a co-founder. And right now, my favorite project is the “Run Marco†educational game that makes me really proud of being a member and co-founder of the allcancode team. You should check out both!
Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
I am from Greece, and I got into the animation business in the same way I get into anything dangerous (lol): through being curious!
What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
Well, no typical days really. Big variety of jobs leave always a door open to surprises! And some windows too!
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
I feel great when I like what I see coming out as I am drawing. It makes me feel I am where I belong.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
The uncertainty that precedes the state I just mentioned. But I’m also used to this stage, it’s part of the process.
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?
I started working with traditional techniques as everyone else.. ecolines, acrylic, gouache. Gradually I jumped into the digital era…Photoshop, Wacom etc. It was a new world waiting to be explored and conquered. Now, I only use digital means. I sometimes miss the feeling of the paper and the brush in my hands and my colored fingers, but I wouldn’t get back. Nay. I guess.
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
Meeting control-freak clients who refuse to trust you. I can’t work with them. I just can’t!
If you could change the way the business works and is run how would you do it?
More freedom to the artist’s inspiration. That would do for a start. Money would also help.
In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
Always the clouds!
Describe a tough situation you had in life.
My dad’s death was the toughest situation I ever encountered.
Any side projects you’re working on that you’d like to share details of?
I’ve been trying to save time for an animated eco-horror short movie of futuristic aesthetics, which I’ve been working on for a couple of years now.
Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
I have developed a rare communication skill with cats, particularly the male ones!
Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
Well, I won’t say something new here I guess. Continue being yourself, don’t stop working, and never lose the fun!
