With a Bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Srijana College of Fine Arts in Kathmandu and working as a senior animator at Incessant Rain Animation Studio for the past four years, Manandhar talks to Republica about his profession as an animator.[break]
How did you get into the field of animation?
We all loved to watch cartoons as children and I too was into a lot of cartoons. Once I met a friend, who is also an animator by profession, doing his work. I was really curious. He then recommended me to try this software for animation after which I was more drawn into it. I became even more curious and wanted to learn more about animation.
What’s the best part about your job?
I give life to a character. I get to make a character the way I want it to be. This is what I enjoy the most about my job. After working on a character, the final output turns out to be just what I had imagined it to be in my head; the satisfaction you get makes it all worth it. Also, there’s a lot to learn while working. My seniors and supervisors are very helpful and are fun people to work with.
One thing you need to keep in mind as an animator?
Self-satisfaction is there but it’s important that you not only satisfy yourself but also your clients. Other people should also like your work. You should also be open to criticism and should handle it well.
What’s your favorite animated movie?
Lady and the Tramp, an animation by Walt Disney, was the first movie I ever watched when I was a child. I loved the movie and still do. There are a whole bunch of animated movies that I enjoy and also learn from. Ice Age 4 was pretty good though not as entertaining as its prequels.
What’s your working style and where do you see yourself in the future?
Creativity doesn’t come out under pressure and I just can’t work efficiently. I work when I am in the mood because that’s when my work exactly matches my imagination. If I’m not in the mood, then I start doing rough sketches which helps me to get into the flow. And in the future, you’ll perhaps see me as animation director. I want to make my own Nepali animation movie in the future.