Hello! My name is Ella Gleeson. I'm so happy you are taking the time to check out my work!
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I am 22 years old. I am an undergraduate student (so close!) of TUS Athlone where I studied Animation and Illustration for 4 years. I currently live at home in Kilkenny, Ireland.
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I've been an "artist" for as long as I can remember, channelling my creative ambitions and ready for wherever it takes me. Below I'd like to share a few things about myself so feel free to read on. If you'd rather not, my CV can be found at the bottom!
Fantasy stories have always had a major influence on my life. The first "fandom" I ever became a part of was Lord of the Rings and Avatar: The Last Airbender simultaneously, around the age of 6. Like anyone, I love worlds that are detailed with bizarre creatures, magic and an appreciation for the natural world. I think growing up with media like this has impacted my desire to make my own stories very much. As I aged I became a big fan of James Cameron's Avatar and I have been since, actively listening to his message of spiritual connection and environment protection.
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If I'm honest I've noticed the drought of creative leaps in Hollywood and the animation industry in recent years. As a young animator wannabe my hope is that the coming generation of young filmmakers can return to the passion of film creation, no easy feat. No matter how long it takes I hope to improve my skills everyday so that I can learn to animate believable characters and create worlds like so many of our legendary artists, writers and directors.
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That being said, I do enjoy many other things in life. Like anyone I ADORE music. My favorite band is U2 and I'm lucky enough to have seen them 3 times. My most recent experience was getting to see them in The Sphere in Las Vegas, yet while I was there I had many eye-opening moments regarding consumerism, the destruction of the native land of America and societal constructions. When I was around 18 I chose to follow a vegan lifestyle and I haven't looked back since. I've learned a catastrophic amount of knowledge and insights to the way we live as humans and when I'm not drawing, I try make time to research and write for my "Utopia" book - one that explores how we can solve the Earth crisis once and for all.
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The passion and duty balance - something I learned from Bono - is a lifelong commitment I've made; my duty to protect Earth and my passion to someday make films.
To cope with all these responsibilities I guess...there are other things I love in life too, like toy collecting and (admittedly) still watching Sesame Street. There is an under appreciated art in "living like a child" and when I'm not drawing, writing or working, you can find me with my childhood dolls that I've never had the courage to throw away. I think a lot more adults need to let go and embrace the art of play which is quite literally the gateway to imagination.
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I've been a die-hard Monster High fan for the majority of my life and I don't intend on giving that up. I love to spend my time acting out scenarios, practicing stop-motion or getting a few cool snaps outdoors. Even as I age, I don't see the problem in having a little friend to help you stay calm in life, especially if it makes you happy!
As of now I take everyday as it comes. I do my best to practice my animation skills and promote an eco-friendly lifestyle to those around me, all the while keeping up my interests such as piano, poetry and learning some Na'vi words!
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I really appreciate the time you have taken to read a bit about me! Cheers!
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- Vanella x
