Here I am at 6:30 am at a Starbucks - watching the world go by. I enjoy watching everyone who comes in for their morning coffee-type drink. Hardly anyone purchases a straight coffee. Count me among them, this morning it was a decaf, mocha grande, non fat with no foam or whip cream. I am sure there is a more formal name for this drink - probably something that involves the words "skinny", decaf, no whip, no foam.
Because of the production of my films and the time I spend writing and animating at places like Starbucks, I have reach "gold card" status and have accumulated numerous gold stars.
Anyhow, for an filmmaker it is fun watch the patrons come in and order their favorite drinks . The crew here seems to know everyone( - though my name seems to be "Bud"). I not sure if Bud is a recognition, a status or a name spacer until another moniker can be deemed.
I do watch people. I love to watch people. Their moods, attitudes, their drinks, what they wear, their body types, clothes, hair (or lack of it) - everything. I have a table where I can easily see the line and their morning coffee rituals.
Of course all the input is great for sketching. The line moves quickly so many times the sketches are gestural. Soon, I have to return to our condo to prepare for class.
Today is the last class for this group. I now teach at Fullsail University in Winter Park, Florida. My position is associate course director for 2DA - which is basically teaching fundamentals of animation with a pencil. I have to say I enjoy working with the folks at Fullsail; most are ex-Disney - instant respect. In the past, one challenge I have had to come to grips with is working with folks who have never worked in the industry. No problem with that here at Fullsail. The course is intense and gives the students an idea of what the "real world" is like out there.
Next week, another group of students will begin another intensive session to explore the basics of animation.
I am really enjoying my work here!
I have to take some pictures and add them later.
AWAYS ANIMATED!