CTN Spotlight on... James!
CTNX: Hi James, it's great to speak with you! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
JJF IV: I am a Storyboard Artist and Screenwriter focused in making Animated Television programs. I was born in West Hills, CA, but was raised in Santa Clarita, CA. Accepted to CSUN's School of Arts, Media & Communications and graduated with Bachelor of Arts in 2015. My persistence to join the Animation Industry has led me to earning art scholarships, being mentored by industry professionals, and as of late inspiring younger artists online and back at CSUN to keep on drawing.
CTNX: When and how did your relationship with CTN begin?
JJF IV: My Animation mentor sent me information about CTN to gain business connections and learn more from industry sources in person.
CTNX: What have your positions been with CTNX and what have you learned most from your experience with CTN?
JJF IV: I was assigned as a VIP Docent and what I've learned from CTN is that unlike other forms of entertainment, Animation is an industry that is so connected to each other that everyone regardless of their position stretches out their hand to you and will help you find your place because in the end we all want the same thing; To make Art and make it come to life.
CTNX: What are your ultimate career goals?
JJF IV: To become a Creator/Showrunner for a show I create for a major network. Yes it may sound cliche, but in my perspective dreams are just dreams. This is something I want to do and doing something is a lot more meaningful then just dreaming about it.
CTNX: How does CTN help you meet those goals?
JJF IV: It helps me stay connected to the industry, because you never know who you are going to meet.
CTNX: What have you learned most from your experience with CTN?
JJF IV: The Industry is a difficult place to enter, but there will always be one unlocked door when conditions are right.
CTNX: What do you look forward to most in the coming years regarding your career?
JJF IV: Just working and knowing the only place to go from here is up.
CTNX: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
JJF IV: To other young artists like me trying to get the rest of their themselves through the door, "Just Keep On, Keeping On."
CTNX: It was a pleasure talking with you James!