Today we’d like to introduce you to Eli Sanchez.
Hi Eli, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I grew up in New Mexico. I’m the youngest of six and my family didn’t have a lot of money, so I worked hard to go to college. I always loved animated movies and TV shows, so I dedicated my time to learning as much about art as I could. It payed off when I got a full-ride scholarship and was accepted to Otis College of Art and Design. I very much enjoyed my time at Otis, the people I met, the professors I learned from. Unfortunately, halfway through my junior year, COVID happened. Online learning wasn’t nearly as engaging or informative as in-person learning, especially with such a hands-on craft like art. But regardless, I dedicated as much time as I could to improving my art. I graduated with my bachelor’s and even landed a job at a pre/post viz studio, Halon Entertainment. That’s where I am today, going on my second year.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
COVID was definitely the biggest roadblock, as it was one for everyone. My second-half college experience wasn’t nearly as effective or enjoyable as the first half. It was a big disappointment, but it’s nobody’s fault. Credit to my professors who tried their best, but the art industry is just as much a social business as it is a skillful one. Not being able to socialize as easily and frequently, in person especially, was a challenge. I’ve been happy to catch up and meet with friends new and old now that the pandemic has slowed down.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My specialty is 3D animation. Although I have many skills of a generalist, such as modeling, texturing, rigging, etc. I usually work in Maya, although I learned Unreal Engine while on the job and am quite comfortable in that program as well. At my studio, I typically do animation for movies, either pre-viz or post-viz. I’m very proud of each of the projects I’ve been a part of, including John Wick 4 and Cocaine Bear. There’s more, but I can’t announce them quite yet, but they are very exciting. I think my ability to adapt and learn quickly sets me apart. As I’ve said, I learned Unreal Engine while working, but I’ve also picked up other programs like SynthEyes, After Effects, etc. Pre/post-viz has a lot of requirements and can change on a whim; you need to learn to work and adapt fast. Luckily, I quite enjoy trying new things and expanding my arsenal.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love learning and contributing to projects. I have a few projects I’m contributing to with friends because it’s fun. Just shoot me a message on Insta, and I’ll get back to you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eli-is-inventin.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eli_is_inventin/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eli-sanchez-art/
Image Credits
Everything from textures to models to rendering is all me baybeeeee.
