James Chiang
Animation Director
James Chiang has been a professional animator since 2005 and currently works on various productions as animator and animation director. He is a graduate of Sheridan College and trained at Disney Animation Studios. James has worked as an animator, storyboard artist, director, and animation supervisor over his 20 year career at large studios like Sony, Blue Sky, and Lucasfilm. He’s been a mentor since 2007 and currently teaches many of the advanced courses, including Introduction to Acting, Advanced Acting, and Feature Animation Acting & Polish.
James’ Credits
Surf’s Up
Open Season
Ice Age: The Meltdown
Robots
Films
- Surf’s Up
- Open Season
- Ice Age: The Meltdown
- Robots
Video
- Oddbods
- VeggieTales: Tomato Sawyer & Huckleberry Larry’s Big River Rescue
What James’ Students are Saying
Never Had a Teacher Better than James
I’ve honestly never had a teacher better than James Chiang in my life. He even beat out my college writing professor who changed the way I learned to write (I’m very rusty now however). The reason why he is so effective is how he teaches understanding rather than just information. Personally, I had trouble in my high school and college days with paying attention. However, not only did every Q&A kept me interested, but the amount of information given left me excited to learn more.
Teaches Us How to Be Actual Animators
I believe James is a superstar mentor because not only does he show us things but also explains why they are the way they are. He covers anatomy and other art principles while also giving real life examples from other subjects such as music, athletics and dance. I think the fact that he draws in his lectures is really helpful. His knowledge and deep respect of the history of animation makes him a great teacher. He teaches us how to be actual animators, not just how to move things in Maya.
Pushes Us to Be the Best We Can
James constantly pushes us to be the best we can, to believe in our abilities and to trust our instincts. Very fair when it comes to grading. Amazing critiques and Q&A, I’ve been learning a lot.One of his best qualities is that he teaches how to think about animation (rhythm, anatomy/how the body works, the import. of having a good foundation). I wish I were a better animator already so I could absorb everything he says and apply it to my work, but it’s okay it’s all about taking small steps at a time.
Never Had a Teacher Better than James
I’ve honestly never had a teacher better than James Chiang in my life. He even beat out my college writing professor who changed the way I learned to write (I’m very rusty now however). The reason why he is so effective is how he teaches understanding rather than just information. Personally, I had trouble in my high school and college days with paying attention. However, not only did every Q&A kept me interested, but the amount of information given left me excited to learn more.
Teaches Us How to Be Actual Animators
I believe James is a superstar mentor because not only does he show us things but also explains why they are the way they are. He covers anatomy and other art principles while also giving real life examples from other subjects such as music, athletics and dance. I think the fact that he draws in his lectures is really helpful. His knowledge and deep respect of the history of animation makes him a great teacher. He teaches us how to be actual animators, not just how to move things in Maya.
Pushes Us to Be the Best We Can
James constantly pushes us to be the best we can, to believe in our abilities and to trust our instincts. Very fair when it comes to grading. Amazing critiques and Q&A, I’ve been learning a lot.One of his best qualities is that he teaches how to think about animation (rhythm, anatomy/how the body works, the import. of having a good foundation). I wish I were a better animator already so I could absorb everything he says and apply it to my work, but it’s okay it’s all about taking small steps at a time.
Courses Taught By James
Courses may vary from term to term.
Feature Animation
Acting & Polish
12-Week Course
Animate a shot the pros would be proud of and finish your demo reel.