Phyllis Craig: A Woman of Many Colors (1929-1997)
"The one memory I will always have of Phyllis, or the 'Studio Mom'
as we came to call her, is that she was always there when I needed her.
She helped bring me into this business, and as an intern I could turn to
her with any question. Later, as I established myself in my career,
it remained a comfort to know that she was still always around for me.
I am so grateful I had the opportunity to know her." -Lance Kramer
Assistant Director, The Simpsons
Film Roman
"I owe my career to Phyllis. She gave me my professional start and
did a lot of good for so many people like myself. She was such a wonderful
person. I will be indebted to her forever and will miss her terribly."
-Bert Kline
Animator, Mulan
Walt Disney Feature Animation
"I know that I'm not alone when I say that Phyllis was not only the single most influential person in my animation career, but also the most generous, kind and supportive mentor a person could ever hope for. Because of Phyllis' big heart, instincts, and open arms, dozens of 'punk kids' like myself were given an opportunity in a business where we otherwise might have never made it through the front door. Even long after getting my dream-job on The Simpsons, she continued to encourage, comfort and support me inside and outside the door of Film Roman.
Phyllis' passing is not only a loss to the existing
industry, but also to the many kids who hadn't yet made it to her door.
We can only admire and aspire to her generosity and faith in young artists,
and remember the woman who made our dreams come true."
-Brad Abelson
Character Layout Artist, The Simpsons
Film Roman
"I was one of the many artists who worked
in animation that Phyllis encouraged and promoted in her Craig Gallery
in 1985. She featured monthly receptions, always with clever themes that
were unique to each artist, and served tasty refreshments to make each
show special. My favorite of course was `A Touch of the Orient' - combining
the talents of Jake Lee's watercolors, Betty Darwin's Chinese brush paintings,
Marceil Ferguson with her Japanese koi paintings and bonsai trees, and
my watercolors of China. Both artists and guests complemented Phyllis in
her beautiful kimono. It was a real tribute to her ingenuity and enthusiasm!
To be her friend for many years is special--to work with her at Film Roman
studio the last few years a real joy."
- With Love, Barbara Sandifer Schade
"Phyllis' passion for life and animation
inspired thousands. The day I met Phyllis, I was so impressed and inspired
by her, I knew I wanted to be a part of the animation industry. She helped
me get my first job here at Film Roman and I am forever thankful to her."
-Alex Ruiz
Character Layout Artist, The Simpsons
Film Roman
"Phyllis Craig was to the animation world
what Florence Nightingale was to the medical one. She'll be remembered
in legendary terms by her industry and in saintly terms by her friends
and family."
-Marija Miletic-Dail
Producer/Director, Universal Cartoon Studios























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