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Meet former OC student Alysa Vilac
Program: Animation Diploma - 2021

What is your name? 
My name is Alysa Vilac, and I am an Indigenous (Shuswap) Storyboard Artist and Illustrator. I'd say drawing is pretty cool. 

How did you become interested in animation? What inspired you? 
I became interested in animation through watching saturday morning cartoons like the Looney Tunes as well as constantly rewatching our Spirit: Stalliion of the Cimarron VHS (to my parents dismay). 

What are some of the reasons you choose ºÚÁÏרÇø to pursue your studies? What year did you graduate from OC? 
I had been familiar with the Okanagan for a lot of my life (visiting the lake, road trips, etc). Learning there was an Animation Program in the Okanagan pretty much sealed the deal. I finished up the program in 2021 with an Animation Diploma. 

What specific projects have you been a part of in the animation industry? 
While I can't say much due to NDAs and all, I can say I've done more work in Preschool/Young Teen focused programs. Some I can note are Sweet Tweets, Skookum and Chums, and Monster High. 

How has your Animation Diploma from OC helped you in your career? 
I've gotten a lot of opportunities both in and out of studio work due to my Diploma. While I mainly work as a Storyboard Artist, I've done work in Layout, Prop Design, Illustration and Animation. 

Do you feel the program prepared you well for the demands of the animation industry? 
Absolutely! The program really helped me to find my footing for learning the basics of what to expect while navigating studio life. 

Are there any specific tools or techniques you learned in the program that you use regularly? 
I would have to say the Life Drawing classes. Line-of-action is super important for helping with more of those "dynamic" poses in your work, especially in storyboards. Take classes, even outside of school. 

Have there been any standout achievements in your career since completing the Animation Diploma? 
I had the chance to work on many cool projects while as a studio artist, as well as a freelance artist. One of my more recent projects has been a music video, a big dream of mine since before I started the program. 

What’s been the most exciting or rewarding part of your career journey so far? 
Probably getting to see the end product of when a project releases. Nothing cooler than seeing everyone's hard work on display. 

What advice would you give to someone considering the Animation Diploma at ºÚÁÏרÇø? 
Creating connections is important! Keep in touch with your colleagues and teachers even after the program. Also don't be afraid to ask questions. Constructive criticism from your colleagues/teachers/coworkers is a great stepping stone towards improving your craft. 

What do you see as the next steps or goals in your career? 
I'd like to work on making or being a part of more indigenous-focused work, as it is something I've been wanting to do as an indigenous artist myself. I also have a bunch of projects I aim to complete sitting in my brain, waiting to be dusted off.