Are There Artists or Animators That Started Late in Life?

Are you 17 and passionate about becoming an animator? You might wonder if you're too old to start your career. Let's explore the journey of successful animators who started late and what they can teach you.

Proving Age is Not a Barrier

It’s great that you’re interested in becoming an animator! Age is not a limitation for pursuing your passion. Many successful artists and animators have started their careers later in life, showing that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.

Notable Late Starters in Animation

Brad Bird: Known for directing films like The Incredibles and Ratatouille, Bird started working in animation as a teenager but didn’t achieve major success until his 30s.

Hayao Miyazaki: The legendary co-founder of Studio Ghibli began working in animation in his 20s but didn’t gain international fame until he was in his 40s.

Henry Selick: Director of The Nightmare Before Christmas and Coraline, Selick worked in animation for years before achieving recognition in his 30s.

Glen Keane: While Keane started working in animation early, he became a prominent figure at Disney in his 30s, contributing to films like The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast.

Katsuhiro Otomo: The creator of Akira began his career as a manga artist and transitioned into animation in his late 20s, becoming a significant figure in anime.

Skills and Passions Matter More Than Age

Starting at 17 is a great age, and many animators believe that the skills and creativity you develop over time are just as important as when you start. If you're passionate about animation, consider taking classes, practicing your skills, and building a portfolio. The field is diverse, and there’s always room for new talent regardless of when you begin.

Starting Young or Late in Art?

Many people start in their youth, but this doesn’t mean you’re too old to pursue your dream. Art and animation are skills that you can develop at any stage in life. Online animation courses can provide you with certification, and attending an art university can offer extensive training in drawing and animation.

The Reality of the Animation Industry

While there are inspiring stories of late starters, it’s also important to be prepared for the realities of the industry. The job market for 2D animation is limited, with most films being made in 3D. Moreover, many 2D animation jobs have been outsourced to countries where labor is cheaper, making it more challenging to find full-time work.

However, there are still opportunities in areas like storyboard timing, direction, background keys, and art direction. These roles can provide a fulfilling career path if you’re willing to adapt and consider different aspects of the creative process.

Consider Practicalities and Future Prospects

It’s important to weigh the practicalities of pursuing a career in animation. Compared to other fields, the prospects for 2D animators are often worse than for those with degrees in anthropology or even underwater basket-weaving. While the job market for 2D animation has become more competitive, there are alternative routes to consider, such as pursuing an MBA or a law degree for potentially higher earnings.

Final Words of Encouragement: No matter your age or chosen path, always follow your dream. Success in the animation industry is possible, and with dedication and hard work, you can make a meaningful contribution to the field.