GojiCenter Animation Scholarship

Light is my paint. In my senior year of highschool, when I really fell in love with photography, I got to know this fascinating, ethereal medium very well. I learned the basic principles and elements of design and from there, my camera and I took on the world together. However, my first love was science, particularly biology. I love examining the natural world. Some days I would go out in my backyard and climb my favorite tree and just look in wonder as the dawn heralded a new day and uncovered the sparkling dewy grass that were hidden in darkness just moments before. Each time I saw light illuminating a bright green leaf, and examined the tiny veins, the little cell-like structures inside, I knew exactly what I needed to do. Science is design, and with nature as my inspiration, I learned all I could about the science behind design. If I know how light bends, I can capture an image that makes a moment feel like forever. If I know the translucency of human skin, I can texture a 3D human model. If I know how clothes reflect light, I can paint not just an object, but the air around it, as Claude Monet once said. Furthermore, as I studied nature and biology, I came to love the person who created and designed all of this in perfect wisdom and love. I wanted to teach others about this loving Creator to show my appreciation. One example of something I learned in biology that strengthened my love for God is a detail in the process of DNA synthesis. At certain points in the process, the DNA polymerase will check back over its work to ensure it did not make mistakes, and if a mistake is made, it fixes it. A similar process happens in the cell cycle. The points this happens are called cell cycle checkpoints. It checks its work several times in the cycle. To me this shows what a careful designer God is. It moves me to create things well too and to show my greatfulness. As part of a way to help kids learn about God, I wanted to contribute my artistic abilities to an animated series as part of my ministry to help kids learn about the loving God that created everything. I love what I do with all of my heart! How did I manage to find a path in life that combines science, art, and my faith? I am so overflowingly grateful. Now, I am putting everything I have into mastering 3D art, and my scientific knowledge will continue to expand as my artistic journey continues. I am grateful for the little things that have brought me here, and I will forever stay curious and creative.

From an early age, the captivating world of animation has held me in its spell. Guided by my unwavering passion, I have pursued this artistic path diligently. Yet, my journey has been enriched by the profound influence of science, which has transformed my perspective on animation and propelled me forward. In this essay, I will explore how the field of science has impacted my decision to pursue a career in animation, highlighting its instrumental role in fostering innovation, enhancing problem-solving abilities, and reinforcing my commitment to artistic expression. Science and animation benefit from a shared foundation rooted in creativity and experimentation. The scientific method's principles of observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis mirror the iterative nature of the animation process. The inquisitive nature inherent in scientists seeking to unravel the mysteries of the universe aligns with the imaginative curiosity that drives animators to create fantastical worlds. During my freshman year in college, as I delved deeper into the realm of science, I discovered how the principles of physics, biology, and chemistry can shape animation. Understanding concepts such as motion, gravity, light, and anatomy allows animators to craft more realistic and believable characters and environments. The study of biology, for example, uncovered the intricate mechanisms behind movement, enabling me to infuse my animations with a sense of authenticity and dynamism. Science equips individuals with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for overcoming challenges and achieving mastery in any field, including animation. Applying a scientific mindset to animation helps artists overcome technical hurdles, develop efficient workflows, and create innovative solutions. By adopting a scientific approach, I have honed my ability to break down complex animation problems into manageable components. This analytical thinking developed through scientific studies, enables me to develop realistic character movements, resolve technical glitches, and optimize scenes for a seamless viewing experience. The meticulous attention to detail that science demands has translated into my animations, resulting in a meticulous approach to every frame, lighting, and texture. The science of communication has also greatly influenced my decision to pursue animation as a career. While science seeks to explore and explain the world around us, animation allows for the exploration of complex emotions, narratives, and societal issues in a visually captivating manner. Studying scientific communication has enhanced my ability to convey ideas effectively, ensuring that my animations are not only visually stunning but also emotionally engaging. The skills acquired in scientific reports, presentations, and debates have been invaluable in constructing coherent narratives, designing compelling characters, and conveying messages that resonate with the audience. The seamless amalgamation of art and science in animation empowers me to communicate scientific concepts to a broader audience than traditional scientific pursuits alone would allow. Science has had an indelible impact on my decision to pursue a career in animation. By embracing scientific principles, from innovation and problem-solving to effective communication, I have developed a unique perspective that allows me to bring imagination to life in a nuanced and believable manner. The field of science has provided me with the tools necessary to push the boundaries of creativity, infuse my animations with realism, and engage audiences on a deeper level. As I continue on this path, I am excited to uncover new synergies between science and animation, creating works that not only entertain but also inspire curiosity and ignite a sense of wonder. The journey of an animator armed with the tools of science is one of constant growth, exploration, and artistry, and I eagerly embrace the challenges and discoveries that lie ahead.