During my third year at OCADU I had the pleasure of working with the Stop Motion Department on TVO kids show "Bumpadoo!" Through the Experiential Learning program, I completed a 6 week internship at the studio. This incredible opportunity allowed me to develop skills related to my animation practice as well as understand the expectations of an animation studio. 

At my placement, I was assigned to the fabrication team to help produce accessories for the main characters and animators. Under the guidance of Meagan Hettler, I had hands-on learning experience with stop-motion puppet building. Some of my tasks included: cutting and shaping legs for LiLi, covering and sewing LiLi's leggings, cutting out eyebrows, making small costume accessories, organizing puppet materials for the animators. Beyond these hard skills I began to understand the importance of teamwork, communication, and connection. 

I learned so much about the hard work and patience behind developing a professional animated show at a studio. With this knowledge, I've been able to implement new techniques into my personal practice as well as help others with their animated productions. Coming out of this experience I feel so much more confident in my skills as an artist. 

Special thanks to the Stop Motion Department, I am so grateful for my wonderful time with you!