Hello! My name is Ella Gleeson. I'm so happy you are taking the time to check out my work!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
I really appreciate the time you have taken to read a bit about me! Cheers!
- Vanella x
