This week’s featured artist is Harry Chaskin, a talented Stop-Motion Animator and Director whose work in stop-motion is as inspiring as it is insightful. Harry's journey began with an early fascination for Ray Harryhausen's creature effects and a super 8 camera in hand. From his formative years experimenting with animation to studying under industry legend Stephen Chiodo at CalArts, Harry's story is one of passion, persistence, and the power of learning on the job. In our interview, Harry shares the value of diverse skills in an unpredictable industry, the importance of planning, and advice for budding stop-motion animators on finding their path in this unique medium.

Q: How did it all start for you? What drew you toward your department? What was a major influence in your life?

A: My obsession with stop-motion began when I was a kid. My father showed me Ray Harryhausen's 'Mysterious Island' and from the moment the giant crab monster emerged from the sand and started attacking the actors, I was hooked. From there, I got my hands on a super 8 camera and started experimenting, animating action figures and little clay characters. Both my father and my 5th grade teacher were huge influences, helping me with various 'productions' and showing me how it all worked.

Q: Where did you receive the majority of your training? School? On-the-job experience? Self taught?

A: I'd consider my training to be a pretty even hodgepodge of school, self-taught experimentation, and on the job experience. I was lucky to go to CalArts and study stop-mo with Stephen Chiodo, who actually gave me my first on set gig while I was a student in his class! But I'd say my biggest growth as an animator came while working on my first TV show-- I was an assistant and the animation director threw me into the deep end on a few shots. I think being immersed in it, asking pro animators lots of questions, and the pressure of needing to create something that I knew would be broadcast all contributed to accelerating my skillset.

Q: How important is planning and pre-visualization in preventing issues during production?

A: Planning and pre-visualization are vital to avoiding issues during production, especially in VFX, where my expertise lies. By visualizing scenes before shooting, filmmakers can identify potential logistical challenges, such as location or lighting issues, and solve them in advance. Pre-visualization also ensures efficient resource use, clear communication among crew members, and significant cost savings by reducing the likelihood of reshoots. Additionally, it allows for creative experimentation and refinement, enabling the team to craft a more polished final product before even stepping on set.

Q: How important is planning and pre-visualization in preventing issues during production?

A: It's a tough road because stop-motion is historically (and continues to be) niche. In an already turbulent industry, stop-mo ebbs and flows more than most mediums, going in and out of style. I'd say it's important to diversify for this reason. If you're a fabricator, expand your portfolio with other forms of construction. If you're an animator, learn CG or 2D so you have another tool in your kit-- All the principles are still the same and will serve you across mediums. Lastly, if you are just starting out, the best way to get better is to practice and get critiques from working animators. The tools to create stop-motion have advanced so far since I first entered the field-- you can animate on your phone! So the barrier to entry is low. No reason not to pick up a camera and a puppet and start playing.

Our conversation with Harry Chaskin shed light on what it takes to thrive in the world of stop-motion. Harry emphasized the importance of adaptability, creativity, and hands-on practice, especially in an industry as niche as stop-motion. His advice to diversify your skillset, seek feedback, and keep animating, no matter your starting point, is invaluable for anyone drawn to animation. Harry’s journey reminds us that even in a specialized field, building a range of skills and never losing your creative spark can open up new opportunities and keep your passion alive.

Websites: https://www.harrychaskin.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hchaskin/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxnmdGfqKHmtYPirgk-zu9A