I'm not even an art student, so I can't give you specific advice, but generally here's what I think....
Do you have drawing skills? Because that's the foundation of animation. Animation is like drawing + motion, so obviously quite a bit different from being able to (for example) paint a still life, but drawing ability is absolutely necessary. On the bright side: everyone can learn art. Yeah, there are some child prodigies out there who are "born with it", but there are far more artists than there are child prodigies. Step one is to start practicing and learning art as soon as possible.
For the third question, I can't answer in a straightforward way. Yes, it's possible to learn animation on your own—but in the same way anyone can learn painting, calculus, history on their own....reading books, tutorials, actively practicing. I think it's easier to learn with others (a teacher, peers, both, etc.) as it is for many subjects. So that's one reason to think about school. On the other hand, there are numerous resources online that can help you connect with other artists for free.
However, if you're planning to work for a major company, I can see a much stronger reason to invest in art school. To get a job there (or for any art focused work, really), you'll need a portfolio of the work you've done. Art schools know this, and by going through the courses there you'll slowly build up a strong portfolio. On top of this, faculty members at art schools often have professional connections, along with having years of experience (both as teachers and artists) they can use to help you improve your art and create the best possible portfolio for you to present. You don't need a school to have a portfolio, but having that structure can help.
It's probably too soon to think about the 4th/5th/6th questions—but you can't go wrong with putting pencil to paper and just drawing. (Or pen, if that's your thing.) If you're truly dedicated to art, you should and will end up trying a lot of things. But start simple.
Another thing to remember is....Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon are big, big companies. I'd imagine there's a lot of competition to get work there, even on the lowest rung of artists (and exceedingly so to reach a director's position), so that even very good artists get turned away.
Tumblr here.
Hey guys,
It has always been my dream since childhood to work at either Cartoon Network or Nickelodeon and create my own animated series. I am 20 years old and I'm determine to make this dream come true. The problem is, I don't know where to start.
Is there any animation students that can give input on what should I do? Is drawing and animation a skill you're born with or can you improve with practice? Should I go to an expensive art/film school or is animation is something I can learn on my own? Also, what materials should I use? What books should I read? Should I use paper or a graphics tablet? Any insight would be really helpful.
P.S. I'm mostly interested in producing 2-D animation.
edited 7th Aug '13 12:15:10 AM by couchpotato