Chad Stewart: A Lifetime of Animation and Inspiration
For nearly 35 years, animator Chad Stewart has brought characters and stories to life on screens big and small. From traditional pencil-and-paper techniques at Walt Disney Feature Animation to groundbreaking digital projects at Sony Pictures Imageworks, Stewart has consistently pushed the boundaries of the medium. Now an independent filmmaker, educator, and mentor, he continues to share his passion for animation with a new generation.
A Lifelong Passion for Animation
“I love animation!” Stewart says enthusiastically. “I’ve wanted to do this since I was about 11 years old.” His career spans iconic works like Tarzan, The Emperor’s New Groove, and Fantasia 2000 at Disney, as well as The Polar Express, Stuart Little 2, and Surf’s Up during his time at Sony. These experiences have shaped his unique approach to storytelling and technique, blending traditional hand-drawn animation with cutting-edge digital tools.
Beyond his work in the industry, Stewart found a new calling 10 years ago when he launched The Animation Course. “It’s the first online animation class for students ages 11 to 18,” he explains. Stewart and his wife have guided over 5,500 students, empowering them to explore animation and create their own independent films.
Crafting Stories with Structure and Style
Stewart’s approach to animation begins with structure. “I try to work out the big picture and overall themes first,” he says. While he values planning, he leaves room for spontaneity, allowing creativity to flourish throughout the process.
A defining characteristic of Stewart’s work is his ability to mix styles. “I use what I learned about human body movement from motion capture on The Polar Express and apply it to hand-drawn animation,” he shares. This fusion of old and new techniques results in animations that feel both familiar and fresh.
Collaboration and Inspiration
Collaboration is key to Stewart’s process. “I’m a big believer in ‘you never know where the next great idea will come from,’” he says. Whether working with industry professionals or young students, he values the energy and fresh perspectives his collaborators bring to the table.
Overcoming Challenges
Stewart acknowledges the complexity of animation, admitting it can be frustrating at times. “When I was starting out, it seemed to take so long to improve,” he recalls. Dedication, patience, and a willingness to embrace failure helped him overcome those early struggles. “I’ve learned that being consistent is when I see the most growth.”
Innovative Tools and Techniques
Stewart enjoys mixing traditional and digital methods. “I’m really enjoying working on paper again,” he says. He combines hand-drawn frames with tools like Photoshop for coloring and Autodesk Maya for creating 3D imagery. He even envisions a project that combines paper, digital 2D, 3D, and stop motion. “I have the idea, now I just need the time!”
Connecting with Audiences
At the heart of Stewart’s work is his desire to connect with audiences. “I want to make people smile, laugh, and enjoy their lives,” he shares. He hopes his animations inspire viewers and provide moments of joy and relatability.
What’s Next?
Stewart is currently juggling several short film projects, including those created by his students. He also plans to launch The Animator’s Channel on YouTube, where he’ll document the creative process behind his projects. “You can find it by searching @the_animators_channel,” he says.
Advice for Aspiring Animators
For those starting in animation, Stewart’s advice is simple: “Practice, practice, practice! And don’t give up!” He emphasizes dedication over talent and encourages animators to be patient with themselves as they grow.
Final Thoughts
Grateful for the opportunity to share his story with the New York Short Animation Festival, Stewart leaves aspiring animators with one final piece of advice: “Keep Animating!” Inspired by Chuck Jones’ words, Stewart’s passion for animation continues to inspire both his peers and the next generation of creators.
To explore Stewart’s work and student projects, visit The Animation Course on YouTube. www.youtube.com/@the_animation_course