This past weekend was the conclusion of another rousing session of Journalism Workshops at Ball State University. While I haven’t been to the workshops for a few years now, I still like to reminisce about teaching InDesign to high schoolers and consuming an unhealthy number of ICEE drinks from the Atrium cafeteria. Of course, nothing paints a better picture of the ‘shops than a classic cartoon I made back in 2006, entitled Teen J-Squad.
An obvious take off of Teen Girl Squad by Homestar Runner, Teen J-Squad was originally intended to serve as an “edutainment” video to illustrate various graphic design concepts to my students. However, it quickly devolved into a cascade of absurdities and slap-stick humor. Still, the jokes contain a surprising amount of commentary on the culture and politics of high school journalism. So in honor of its three-year anniversary, I’ve uploaded a somewhat “remastered” version of Teen J-Squad to YouTube. Enjoy!
This past weekend I visited New York City for the first time, and while I nearly collapsed from carrying my luggage with me everywhere I went, it was a thrilling trip. I was in town for the Animation Block Party in Brooklyn, the first major venue to screen Duck ♥ Teslacoil alongside the work of well-known professional animators and studios. I got to town a day early to get my bearings and rid my system of any general tourist urges. The Empire State Building, Times Square and Grand Central Station — I had them crossed off before sunset. That evening I journeyed up to southern Connecticut to visit fellow Purdue University alumnus Jac Piette, who works at Blue Sky Studios. This was a terrific opportunity to talk to a real professional in the modern feature animation industry, and it fit the theme of the weekend perfectly!
The following day was the Duck ♥ Teslacoil screening, so after spending the afternoon exploring Wall Street, the World Trade Center Site and Battery Park, I took the subway to Brooklyn and arrived at the Brooklyn Academy of Music for the last night of the Animation Block Party. I finally got to see Duck ♥ Teslacoil on a big screen and hear how a large audience responds to the film. After the show, I mingled with fellow filmmakers and School of Visual Arts alumni well into the night. I’m amazed how naturally I connect with other people who work in animation — it reassures me I’ve finally chosen the right path.
I’ll spare you the details of the third day, when I spent 19 hours stuck in the La Guardia Airport, but rest assured it has a lot to do with why you haven’t seen this post any sooner. Despite that, my first visit to New York was certainly worth it, and I’m left with a strong urge to visit again… as soon as I find another good excuse.
