The industry veteran comes on board as creative director of animation as the studio expands into feature animation and high-end TV; animation division also recently welcomed Chrissy Metge as executive producer and Louis Flores as VFX supervisor.
Global VFX and animation studio Jellyfish Pictures has added DreamWorks alum Archie Donato to its Animation Features team as creative director of animation. The appointment coincides with the studio’s expansion into feature animation and high-end TV.
Donato brings 30+ years of experience to his new role, including 17 years at DreamWorks Animation. Most recently, he served as head of VFX at DNEG Animation. His credits include work on iconic film franchises such as Star Wars, Terminator, Godzilla, and Kung Fu Panda, with his most recent credits as VFX supervisor on Emmy-nominated Entergalactic and Nimona.
“Creative excellence is the beating heart of our business, and this high-profile addition to our senior creative team is testament to our commitment to deliver ground-breaking, top-quality feature animation for our clients,” commented Jellyfish managing director, Animation and Originals, Natalie Llewellyn. “Archie brings dynamism, passion, and a wealth of artistic talent and front-line experience to the role. We’re thrilled to welcome him on board.”
"I am thrilled to join Jellyfish Pictures as creative director of animation,” added Donato. “Jellyfish Pictures has an ever-growing team of talented artists as well as very supportive and motivated leadership that strives for excellence while maintaining an artist-friendly environment. It is very exciting to be a part of this journey to deliver world-class quality work for our partners and audiences."
In his new role, Donato will work with senior creative teams across Jellyfish Pictures’ animation productions. His appointment follows the recent addition of two other senior executives in the Animation division: Chrissy Metge, who joined as executive producer, animation, and Louis Flores as visual effects supervisor.
Jellyfish Pictures is currently in production on several projects, including the animated series Wereworld (Netflix EMEA/Lime), based on a popular book series by Curtis Jobling; an animated series adaptation of one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved children’s books; and a yet to be named feature animation production for a Hollywood studio.
Source: Jellyfish Pictures
Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.
