MY ART JOURNEY / HOW I GOT A JOB AT DISNEY

I'm an artist at Disney on Tangled the Series! Here I talk about my art journey, my first animation job, my school, and how I got my job at Disney!
► DAY IN THE LIFE OF A DISNEY ARTIST: • DAY IN THE LIFE OF A D...
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[@CaramelEspresso-g4k]

Watching this I thought “Oh my god, she’s just like me.” And then I started crying because I’ve never seen anyone I related so much to and I’ve personally struggled with accepting that art is my one true passion because I’ve been told so many times that “art isn’t a career” and that I needed to focus on going to college for a “real degree” (medicine, law, etc.) Its really inspiring and gratifying to see that you really CAN do art as a job.

[@aquadust]

ME TOO!! i related so hard to this video, it's rare to see other people who are academically focused but also have a passion for art??

[@lyradd]

I really relate to you all. I also want to become an animator but I'm currently taking BS Chem for college Well, I wish for all of us to achieve our dreams in the art industry. GOODLUUUUCK!

[@lyradd]

@@aquadust TRUE!!!!!! I never really thought of becoming an animator since tuition in art schools in my country are EXPENSIVE. But her story is so inspiring it pushes me to not give up.

[@aquadust]

@@lyradd yes--also the thing about how art schools are super expensive but you're also taking a risk bc it's hard to land a job (not to mention a well-paying job) in the animatino industry, so going to a regular university/college seems like a much safer investment? it's just a whole lot of stress to become an artist ahhh :') anyways, it's super amazing to hear how you're taking BS chem!! i'm a senior in high school and still applying right now. wishing you the best of luck in the industry and in the future!!

[@lyradd]

@@aquadust Thank you! I also wish you the best of luck in the industry you want to go to. And yeah may our paths cross each other. Im looking forward to that.

[@danhandskillz]

When i took my girlfriend to see spirited away, and she hated it, I knew we had no future.

[@valeriavagapova]

how can anybody _hate_ spirited away.. I understand if it's just not particularly your cup of tea, but what is there to hate, man

[@danhandskillz]

@@valeriavagapova She was a major stiff. Sweet and fun in some ways, but such a pragmatic mind with no room for inerpretation.

[@IGamingStation]

@@valeriavagapova The story is a bit convoluted to people, which is why I recommend to anyone watching Studio Ghibli films to watch it twice to understand it.

[@zedium3280]

@@commandermickey xD

[@Emer745]

Spirited away is the best movie who could hate it.

[@heyitsemlynn]

"I decided that nobody else gets to decide whether or not I'm good enough." Chills. What an inspiring journey. Thanks for sharing :)

[@abubakarmughal6372]

Emily Carter true ☺️

[@mariemorganhenry9072]

Yup went on a high level interview made it to the second round... they offered it to someone else and then said it was because of my resume and the interview???? Then why round two then they said if interested they would meet with me to tell me where I went wrong thanks but no thanks. You will not define me. If I made it that far I am more than enough.

[@fartbutt5440]

friends who don't like spirited away are...not friends

[@HotaraTakeo]

It got an oscar. Asian animation film got an oscar. How that is not cool

[@KobuZero]

I actually don't like Spirited Away as much as Miyazaki's other films personally, but it is rude to be mean to others who do like it.

[@Redeemer216]

@@KobuZero That's not saying you don't like spirited away though. All of Miyazaki's films are amazing.

[@KobuZero]

@@Redeemer216 They are all amazing, but I do feel it's still valid if you're a fan of his films but don't like particular one.

[@Redeemer216]

@@KobuZero It's my least favorite of his films too actually, but I still like it.

[@peytonlauricella9902]

Your story is so awesome! I just got rejected from the animation program at the art school of my dreams and I was absolutely crushed but because of you, I know that my story doesn't end here :) Thank you for this!!

[@lulusketches]

Peyton Lauricella thanks so much! you can do it! ♥️

[@mg-ThisHandleIsSoStupid]

It took me 3 times to get into Cal Arts. I don't know anyone who got in first try. Things are different now, with everything being digital. Who knows now. I went in 96-98 and went with Shane Prigmore. Also went to school with Doug Gallery who was a timer in PigGoatBananaCricket.

[@allanmorris1438]

Peyton, stick with it, I just passed my art in High school back in 1990 but I did not agree with what the teacher wanted me to draw, ie bowls of fruit, trees etc, I liked drawing Sci-fi, aliens, space craft, soldiers etc etc something that I was passionate about, remember art is an expression or your emotions, my medium was pencil as I struggled with colors being partially colorblind red and green in school, because of that I wanted to do drafting and architecture, went to college wanting to do that, but was railroaded into another career as my math was not strong, so constantly being told no through my artistic creative years, I picked up photography and that is now my creative outlet, I was always told I have the eye for it, I know I have the eye for it, photography helped me see composition, rule of thirds etc, it showed me light and shadow, texture, colors etc. What we see in life is reflected light. I draw digitally every once in a while when time allows, Peyton Don’t ever accept no as an answer, Laura is proof of that, love this video Laura, thank you for sharing about your anxiety and perfectionism. I tip my hat to you. You rock.

[@Leila.Allameh]

Peyton, You don't need to waste money at an art school to learn a skill that is acquired with practice and hard work. Schools are nothing but business! Just take specific online lessons on the topics of your interest and don't waste your time nor money.

[@crazyfunnyman1760]

@@Leila.Allameh i agree

[@Maybeyoudorho]

"I thought I could be an anime artist professionally- as one does" Me: oh thank goodness someone else thought that just like I use to. I feel like almost every artist goes through an anime phase at least once in their life

[@sattesail9762]

Pheobie I’m thirteen, but my dad is extremely smart, and I learned to draw and skipped entirely over the anime stage. I like anime, I just don’t like the look of it, and I’d rather practice fundamentals. Idk from a young age I didn’t like wasting time, and I was really confused, so I’m not going to draw anime

[@foodandart5808]

Nope. Never had the itch to draw anime. Then again, it was not what it is now when I was learning.

[@vee1340]

@@sattesail9762 Hello, I am an animeartist and two years older than you. I also thought like that!:3 I love learning the fundamentals and developing my artstyle on the side. If you don't like it that is ofc okay, but drawing anime based on fundamentals is not wasting time, it is just as good as drawing realistic. Have a nice day

[@nai9167]

thats exactly what i thoughtt

[@yutikanair9106]

I am going through my anime phase and I am 12

[@ScrungleCat]

I would cry if I was brought onto Tangled! I'm a senior in art school working to be a character designers/visual development artist. Working in animation is the one thing I've ever wanted to do. However, it really bums me out that almost everyone I hear from who works in animation know people who know people that helped get them a sweet job. I don't know anyone personally :( I'd love to move to LA someday (I'm the ease coast) but without a set job over there, I can't. I have a month left in school and I'm still searching for my dream job. I have hope and won't stop until I get there, but would love pointers. I love your work! - Bri

[@Apoyamosaroyce89]

Y al final, ¿lo lograste? Yo voy más lejos de mi sueño. Debo aprender inglés totalmente y debo empezar a hacer portafolio jaja :c Al igual que tú, espero diseñar personajes algún día.

[@lulusketches]

EvilTerrier sorry for the late reply! since i’m from the east coast too I know how it feels! I wish I knew someone in animation to help me get a job but I didn’t either. you don’t NEED connections to get jobs- your portfolio has to speak for itself! which is how I got into animation without knowing anyone! so just work really hard on your portfolio, it’s the most important thing. :)

[@shoteb1362]

EvilTerrier do you have an update?

[@alisa_hanes]

Laura Price Do you have any suggestions for animators portfolio?

[@obilim2155]

How are you doing now after graduating from art school?

[@GeenoGab]

I can relate to you growing up, I knew I wanted to be an artist or be involved in animation. But our our paths after high school is different. I started to believe that pursuing animation or art as a career wouldn't provide me stability and felt my skills wasn't good enough. Now at 35, after getting promoted and earning a stable salary, I feel like I'm not doing what I'm supposed to do in my life. I regret not following my passion, so I decided to quit and take drawing more seriously. I've been drawing everyday, learning anatomy, perspective, coloring, concept designing, everything. You are very lucky, I wish I pursued my passion alot earlier in life. Right now I spend 24/7 making my comic for my passion project and building my portfolio.

[@prsl-qy5mt]

You sound so motivated! I wish you the best and keep following your dreams

[@sulaimankhan1284]

Holy crap, you’re doing exactly what I’m doing. I’m 35, always been an artist but never thought I had any career in it, got laid off due to COVID cuts, and realized how miserable these jobs are making me. Now I’m working on a portfolio too. Best of luck to you! Cheers 🍻

[@leil.3124]

I sincerely wish you the best of luck, its so nice to hear stories like that. Keep us posted!

[@dionthacreator3499]

I’m currently 21 going to school doing general Ed but my desired degree is Digital Media: Game Design specialization with goals of doing animation and I’m too much in my head about my skills I feel like I suck but others told me other wise even my professor so I’m still trying to find my way hence me being here

[@kaylaadamik9271]

I'm about to turn 30 and am doing the same thing! It is never too late!

[@NashCrafter]

Oh my gosh spirited away is one of my ALL TIME favorite movies and I totally understand how you felt when you saw it because I felt the same way! My friends never understood why I liked it too! You're so awesome and I loved hearing your story! Thank you for sharing!

[@lulusketches]

ahh I wish everyone saw the beauty of it!! thank you!

[@jrs3448]

Spirited away was created by studio Ghibli, Disney only has rights on that movie .

[@erikainthesky]

as someone who is so lost in a sea of constant depression and anxiety trying to find a way to live a soul driven creative purpose... THIS. IS. SO. INSPIRING. wow. thank you for sharing this story.. i am so enthralled by your journey. ♥

[@averiegirlsdream4247]

I love how you said "nobody can decide that I'm not good enough." So awesome you never gave up. You give me hope on following my dreams

[@elysosome2570]

Dude this is so inspiring. You didn’t join in Disney right away but it was really a journey for you. I want to be a nurse and maybe an animator or something involved in animation. But, I’m just unsure still because I’m still in high school. The fact that you took a while and even a year in France before you did animation really gives me hope. I just wonder what will happen to me in the long run.

[@imanwilliams7387]

I definitely relate to you right now, I’m a senior in high school and I plan on being a dermatologist, but I always had an interest in art and I kinda wanna double major in biochemistry and studio art. I’m still debating on doing animation, but if you have any tips on your experiences I’d love to hear them!

[@WillTerrell]

11:38 Roar! That's why you're a badass. That Nick program sounds brutal. I know friends that have been judges on it. Hearing that side of it is also pretty heartbreaking. In the end... it seems people that have what it takes will make it no matter what. Its so cool though how everything worked out for you. I hope it keeps getting better and better. So glad you're making these videos.

[@lulusketches]

thank you Will!!

[@andyzhang7890]

Woah it's Will Terrell!!! I miss your videos :((

[@taquetfilm]

I started crying

[@alexarice5066]

@@lulusketchesi'm a mashupper

[@letscarpethisdiem1988]

High School literally killed my art

[@murk959]

If that ain't me!!

[@zeyneps5863]

Same

[@Charlie-tw3ef]

Lol read it as killed my cat

[@caitlyn-6600]

Same here. I had really mean art teachers that constantly put me down.

[@shacheesingh]

Mine too

[@ZeinaIan]

I always knew I wanted to be an artist too but my anxiety and outside pressures made me give it up and I got a degree in something I hated. Now I'm trying to get back into art but again those things are making it hard for me but I'm trying to ignore it and believe in myself.

[@starlight3497]

An art degree isn't always necessary :). The only thing you need is time, courage, good resources to learn from (which can be found online or in books) and motivation

[@Noname-rq1hr]

Hey, it may be a long time since you wrote this, but could you help me a little bit?? I also always wanted to be an artist, but right now I am actually studying business, and I am super confused, becaused I feel like I want to study animation, but feel like I should study business... it´s so stresfull Could you share your experience with me, please???? It would really mean a lot to me

[@ZeinaIan]

@@Noname-rq1hr I don't think I'm the best person to give advice since I'm still not sure if I am making the right choices, but I'll try. Depending on how far in your business degree you are try to see if you can do a double degree in buisness and some form of art since having a buisness degree would probably benefit you in a lot of company based art fields. There are also creative jobs in buisness like marketing. I can't really tell you what to do but this is what happened with me, I studied psychology because I thought it was a more stable job to have. So I finished my bachelor's and took a break from University. At this time I got a job working at a call centre where I'd get a lot of calls from distressed people in bad situations, working here made me realise ny anxiety would never let me be a psychologist because I found it hard to breathe before every call and I would constantly think about work and stress and feel guilty for the ones I couldn't help. So I quit my job and I'm studying digital design and fine art online, becuase art was always my dream and although I'm coming back to it a little late I now know I'd rather be happy than stable.

[@Noname-rq1hr]

Zeina Ian Thanks for answering! I am just in my first semester, lol, but I am from Mexico, and here, the careers are very focused in the field they are from. I said I am studying business, but the real name of my career is foreign trade and international logistics, with a very specific program focusing on exportations, laws, and all that stuff. So, doing a second degree in art isnt an useful option. The situation is consuming me, and I am no longer sure of who I am, what do I want to achieve in life, I feel extremely guilty for wasting my dad’s money on university, and I recently have surprised myself for living “in automatic” just to not be conscious of the life I am living, wich makes me feel even more guilty because I have been blessed and live in a loving family, with food and a home to sleep in. I really appreciate you shared your story, and I am really glad you chose happines over stability. It is a very brave thing to do, facing the uncertainty in order to accomplish what is thrully meaningfull in your life. I wish you can achieve what you want, and hope one day I can achieve it. I didnt meant to tell you all this stuff, but I really have no one to talk about it, and some way or another needed to spit it out. Thanks for that as well.

[@applelayla4532]

@@Noname-rq1hr If you'll take advice from an internet stranger... Quit your university r i g h t n o w. As soon as possible. Think of it like this: If you stay, you are going to waste 3-4 or more years of your life doing something you are not interested in (hate? dislike? don't care about?) , then you will spend even more years trying to get a job on a subject that you hate. You will be full of self loathing, anxiety, you may have regrets and fall into depression. At this point, you will have 2 options: 1. get a job on what you studied, proceed to work in that field for many empty, sad, regretful years , or 2. refuse to spend your youth and your life doing something that you aren't passionate about, and attempt to get back to university (college, online studies etc) to study what you will think you should have studied in the first place, what *you* yourself, Fernanda, actually always wanted. You will feel like you wasted time and money, rightfully so. You will likely struggle with anxiety and depression, you will feel even worse for asking your dad again for even more money. So, my advice is, leave your current studies as soon as possible. The more you stay, the more difficult it will get to leave, the more regrets youll have, the more stressed and unhappy you will be. Study what you love, ignore the people who dont understand or dont care about you, get a job on what you love doing because you will be doing it for the rest of your life. I wish you the best.

[@AndyAF86]

My wife and I watched this video at random after watching you follow a Bob Ross tutorial (which we loved). You're story is very inspiring and we wish you the best of luck moving forward!

[@sreaves73]

As a left-handed artist, I feel your pain, lol.

[@wangzisworks]

S Reaves same

[@celine.nm888]

What's wrong with the left handed artist?🤔

[@nenidetic]

@@celine.nm888 it's really hard to use a right-handed computer mouse for drawing, especially if you're left-handed.

[@nenidetic]

@YO3NMF F oh i haven't tried that. still, many computer mouses are designed for only right hands. idk though, that might work.

[@nenidetic]

@YO3NMF F ok thanks :)

[@littmus32ify]

I just watched this with my 9-year-old daughter who draws ALL THE TIME. You truely have become an inspiration to her! 👩‍🎨

[@tenaciouslily3758]

I remember you from tumblr! When I was 13 I sent you a message about how amazing your art was and I compared you to Viria and Burdge who were my freaking idols at the time lmao. You responded and you were so nice and I was incredibly starstruck that I got an answer 😂. I saw when you posted about Nickelodeon and I was SO HAPPY for you. Then Disney and I was absolutely so in awe (absolutely my dream, I'm attending USC this fall and am an aspiring animator). Now I hear about how hard you worked and how you didn't take the "expected" path to become an animator and it makes me love you and your work even more. ALSO I relate so much to your reason for not applying to art schools, it's exactly why I decided not to. I know you'll do even more amazing things and I can't wait to continue seeing your art mature and your horizons grow! You're still as amazing to me as you were five years ago! Keep going!

[@lulusketches]

ahhh that is so cool!! thank you so much for following my art for so long! burdge's art is still posted all over my cube at disney, she's so great! and have so much fun at USC! my good friend amanda jolly did her masters there (in something not art related haha) and she's a character designer on tangled with me :)

[@alexarice5066]

@@lulusketches i'm going to disney TV animation for my dream job interview come true in next 2 years and i have my portfolio 2

[@PompTheMoose]

I dont think I've EVER heard anyone else say they learned coding from Neopets. But same, girl. Same.

[@lachtaube]

There are dozens of us! DOZENS.

[@miscellaneous7777]

PompTheMoose coding?

[@DukBurd]

@@miscellaneous7777 yeah in the Video she talking about how she taught herself HTML and CC so share he neopets drawing and backstories

[@SirithPL]

I didn't learn coding from Neopets, but that was the first time I got interested in character design! I was seeing all these themes coming up (that was, what, 16 years ago?) and I wanted to create a Chinese-themed fairy and set of pets, still have the drawings somewhere... But then maybe year later depression kicked in HARD, I've stopped drawing (made SOME drawing but not nearly enough) until late high school. Took a course and tried for architecture at a polytechnic uni, even got in, but dropped out because of my own frustration with my level (depressive episode wasn't helping). I still love design. Character, environment and world design are my favourite parts of RPGs, I have tons of characters in my portfolio. Maybe it's time to start drawing them again.

[@kriete2883]

@@SirithPL back when guilds were a huge thing and you had to design a great guild layout page, that's when I got into coding too :D

[@krsexton]

Hey I'm also an artist at Disney with an anxiety disorder who makes KZbin videos! What a weird coincidence. Thanks for sharing your story! I follow you on Twitter and randomly stumbled upon this video! Subbed

[@mr.punkie5872]

KRSextonArt How do you start? I want to be an animator for a big studio like Disney or others, but I don’t even know how to start or what to study.

[@theanimartist2299]

@@mr.punkie5872-same.

[@theanimartist2299]

Yes, could you please tell how to get into Disney Animation Studios?

[@milqueteaa]

@@mr.punkie5872 Well, first off, you need to work hard. Like, VERY hard. Then, it'd be better to get into an art or animation school, go to college etc. Also, don't go for Disney straight away, do smaller companies first then when you feel ready, apply for Disney! Also, if you do work experience, it'd be better to do it at Disney because then you have a higher chance of getting the job.

[@lyricsforever1861]

In Disney is it really important to know Animation 🤔🤔pleasetell

[@pendeshu6542]

I’m 15 and I recently told my dad that I wanted to be an animator. He seemed very very disappointed and it made me very sad because it’s my dream, and I always loved it and always drew. I don’t care what he thinks about it, at least, I know that my mom supports me. I hope that it will become my job one day, and that day I will show my dad that I made it.

[@axkela]

Boomers consider it a risky career path.

[@pendeshu6542]

oh lol.. update!! im 17 now gonna turn 18 soon!! im studying 3D animation :) im learning a lot its cool

[@cryptical1210]

@@pendeshu6542 wow that’s so cool! Good luck! It’s my dream to study animation too! What advice you have for someone who is 14 and wants to study animation?

[@xomoiquan6689]

How’re going now? 😁 Are you still following your dream to be an animator?

[@axkela]

@@pendeshu6542 Good to know?

[@lucyinwonderlandart]

I'm 16 and I'm from the UK. There isn't many art schools here but there's still a couple of good ones. Ever since I was little I've wanted to work for Disney in any way I can. I've struggled with anxiety for 4 years and drawing and painting helps me release all the anxious thoughts and feelings. People make fun of me for wanting to be an artist except for my mum and art teacher. Anyway, I've just been accepted into college for art (not sure if college in America is the same in the UK but here it's somewhere you can go from the age of 16 until 18. After that you can go to university if you want to) and I couldn't be happier! You've really inspired me to keep persuing art! Thank you :)

[@lulusketches]

that is amazing!! great job ignoring the negative people, and creating art has been amazing for coping with my anxiety as well. have fun at your art college/program (we use the word college and university interchangeably in the US, haha!)! and good luck!

[@micharein2213]

Some of the very best art schools in the world are in the UK! Keep going with your art, never let anyone stop you!

[@kazgrace1450]

I’m a high school student who’s currently stressing about what to do for college and art is something I love (especially animation and character design!) and this video gave me a lot of confidence and motivation to keep practicing! ❤️

[@MarsFireballCharge]

Being in the animation industry can sometimes be really daunting, and it's such a competitive field to work in. Sometimes I start to feel really pessimistic about it but this video really helped lift my spirits! Thanks Lulu. :)

[@lulusketches]

so glad it was helpful!! anytime :)

[@ArtInMotionStudios]

I was lucky, My closest friends all loved Spirited Away, always crappy to be discouraged about the things you love! Thank you for sharing, you are brilliant!

[@PastelShark]

This came just in time! I'm a senior in high school and I'm going to art school in August for animation. This is so inspiring and makes me want to push myself harder and work hard in order to achieve my dream! Thank you Laura :)

[@paopudragon6022]

That's so cool! Which art school are you going to?

[@PastelShark]

sorry i just saw this LOL but im going to vancouver film school!! i'm starting in a little over a week :)

[@paopudragon6022]

It's okay. Hope you do very well!

[@angiebegue5911]

Hi Laura ! I don't know if you are going to read this but I really wanted to say to you that I find you so STRONG because even when you were in the worst situation and you felt rejected, you've been able to stand up again and work even harder ! I admire you a lot for that and now you have like a dream job and it's really great. I'm struggling a lot with anxiety and depression and I always feel down and like I'm not good enough for working in animation. But really, your videos (that I just discovered) giving me hope. You are even giving Portfolio advice and it's perfect. Thank you for all the sharing you do ! It means a lot for people like me. Thank you again.

[@PalomaMcClain]

My journey is nearly identical to yours. Artistic childhood, played neopets, drew my characters, learned some HTML and made pet pages...then I lost interest and made very little art during high school when I became engrossed in dance. And then when I reached uni I knew I wanted to be a digital artist, but the most relevant degree they had was graphic design. At this point in my journey I’ve graduated with my bachelors and am just working on making art right now. Your story is really inspiring! My goal is also to make it to the animation or game industry.

[@kaakachan]

Literally same right now. I'm 2 years into my graphic design BFA (also the most relevant degree), but I want to get into animation and games. Seeing everyone's stories here is so uplifting and inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@shuizaffre]

Have you guys gotten careers or jobs with your graphic design degrees? Any updates?

[@PalomaMcClain]

@@shuizaffre Hi! Yes! In 2020 I landed my first job as a graphic designer at a small company. I’ve been working there for 2 and a half years. I just accepted an offer for a new graphic design job with a different company that I’ll be moving for in November. January of this year I also landed a gig working with a team of 3 on a 2D indie game that I work on in the evenings. My graphic design career has excelled more than I expected and my game industry experience is still in early development. It’s going good!

[@Paperhorse]

My daughter is 9 and she has some natural drawing skills.... since she was in preschool . It blows me away considering her dad and I don’t draw I’m lucky I can draw a stick person ! What a role model you are for little girls that will someday become you in a way !! Keep up the great work we love the series !!!! We go to Disney every year!! Die hard fans lol!! J

[@cynthiaquezada6982]

This gives me hope that I can change careers. I wanted animation all my life, but I studied architecture and am interning at an office. For awhile I've been feeling stuck....but hearing that you made an effort to create a portfolio and post your stuff online. I feel motivated and more at ease that I'm not stuck. I can get myself out of this situation and still follow my dream. I'm not entirely miserable where I am, but I do reflect and think about where I'm at and know I need to move forward. I know that if I stay in architecture I will be okay, but I'll always be thinking "what if". I also come from a small town (in Texas), so hearing that a small town girl made it, is really great! You go girl! :)

[@bluefeathercat]

Oh my goodness, it's so nice to see and hear about someone (especially another female!!) landing a great job in animation without going to an animation/art school first! I'm in a situation where the most education related to animation I can afford is a minor (hopefully a double major in the future) in transmedia art at my university. I always get nervous when I think about having to compete with people from more prestigious schools like CalArts for jobs one day, but you've inspired me to believe that if I work hard and create a nice portfolio, there actually IS hope for me to live my childhood dream! Thank you so much for making this video!!

[@bree1686]

this is so inspiring, i keep seeing professionals who landed their jobs because of connections or because they came from prestigious art schools, so this is just superb! honestly laura you have no idea how much of a boost this gives me after getting rejected TWICE from my dream animation school. after watching this video i got out of bed and a few hours later im working on a new portfolio to try again next year, or just to make a portfolio in general to put myself out there, while i was working i suddenly remembered i didn't thank you or even left a comment to show how much your video's mean to me, and most likely any other young aspiring artists. so thank you laura, for being such an inspiration to us, your video's are so helpful and fun to watch, and your art is just so amazing i find myself always looking at it in awe. i would love to see your creative process with how you create your backgrounds because they all look stunning, maybe a layout tutorial for beginners if you run out of ideas for a video? specifically for people trying to put together a portfolio? we see alot of videos about character design here on youtube, but i know alot of people struggle with layouts. but anyways, all your videos are so much help! keep up the amazing work

[@lulusketches]

great idea, I'll definitely keep that in mind for a future video! drawing and painting layouts is so daunting at first! this comment meant a lot, I'm so glad you feel driven to keep going. just get a portfolio together and get it online, that is a success in itself!! good luck!!

[@HeIsRisenVivaCristoRey]

You’re absolutely amazing! I also adore the fact how you didn’t give up due to all the negativity and insecurities that came your way. You made it! Ive Resided in Los Angeles my whole life and also been drawing since I was a child, I’m trying to get hired at Disney Animation Studios. Always wanted to work there. It’s been my dream for a while now. Hopefully I see you there, if my dream comes true.

[@EarthAngels716]

Congratulations! It sounds like the "seeming" rejection was really just a push to move towards what you really want to do. So in the end it was a gift. You are so talented! Glad you chose to use the energy to propel you! Will enjoy following your journey. Passing along to my daughter who works at Toy Story at Disney. She graduated in film. You never know where steps will lead you. Thanks!

[@zenkiea9663]

I’m literally in tears right now! Complete Awesome Joy! As an Artist and Stop Motion Animator I so relate to your story!. Congratulations for getting on at Disney Animation!

[@veggietalesfan65]

I'm a college student love of art but not exactly the skill set of an animator. I've always loved art and I truly want to become an animator one day! Even if my art isn't anywhere right now xD I want to keep drawing to reach that level! Hearing your story of how there was a period of time where you weren't persuing art and instead in school actually inspired me since I feel like I haven't had time to do any art! I hope someday maybe I can work in animation or art ^u^

[@lpsalsaman]

Really awesome story and the best part of it is that your perseverance and focus got you where you at today. Like you, I have been drawing since I was a kid and also had dreams of creating comics and such, but I had to put that up in order to take care of my family. I joined the Army until I retired and drawing now is only a hobby that I do when I have time. However, it makes me happy to hear someone like you who actually made it! Congrats!

[@ollybarrett6942]

I really want to be a graphic designer when I grow up and my mom got me a really nice stylist for my birthday a few days ago so that I can practice more digital art. You really inspire me and help me to keep drawing. 💜💜💜

[@akashee5013]

I also want to be artist.. But everyone around me told me that there are thousands of much much better artists and I can't succeed in such a vast field.. Thanks for being my inspiration, Laura.

[@YasmineArt]

It's my dream to be able to work at Disney

[@Daijin-sama]

Yasmine Art ya

[@AlexiaYT]

same

[@jadedeleon_]

Yasmine Art me too

[@Cxyptocite]

Same

[@theanimartist2299]

Mine as well. Hope I see you there.

[@gabriellastauffer]

I can't believe that we share the "showing friends Miyazaki films only to be bullied about it" story - I will never forget showing my 8th grade friend group The Cat Returns. Everyone hated it and I was so devastated! I really appreciate your presence in my youtube pool Laura, you help me stay motivated when I feel like one small fish in a giant animation pond. Being a college student and going through internship rejections has really beaten me down but I feel a lot better knowing that no one path is the "right" one and that I have some hope for the future (lol). Also thanks for keeping me company while I draw. Best wishes!

[@707Bubby]

Something I am kind of interested to hear about is how you deal with the somewhat instability of being an artist, like the way artists bounce around from studio to studio and how do you plan for and deal with the idea that unlike some more "traditional" jobs you pretty much know its NOT going to be a very long term thing

[@lulusketches]

good question! when I first started working in animation a lot of artists told me to save money. even while artists are on shows for several seasons there are hiatuses between seasons of no pay (usually around a month of no pay for background painters). it's a bit scary not having job security but companies in general try to retain their employees. so once a show ends, big companies like Disney or Nickelodeon will try to place you on another show. that doesn't always work out because there aren't always openings at the right time, but recruitment will keep you in mind for future jobs and reach out. in general you know your end date ahead of time so you can start searching for your next gig early!

[@MsSilentH]

So cool of you to talk about your journey, and just knowing everyone is different, and nothing is always a straight line or even always moving forwards. And I'm so glad to hear how you can do all of this stuff with your anxiety, mine has always held me back from a lot of things, including going into music or photography as a career, so it's definitely a big frustration of mine now that I'm kind of past the point where I'd want go back to school and try to re-learn in a formal setting. And you also make me want to go back to drawing myself. I still remember having tons of notes filled up with little sketches in school, and drawing lots of video game stuff!

[@sereneimmorality]

I would love it if you would do a video on anxiety! I have social anxiety and it really puts a halt on me meeting people in my area and trying to network. It's really awful because I want to meet people and make art friends...

[@lulusketches]

it's really tough, I feel ya! I can definitely make a video about it :)

[@sereneimmorality]

Looking forward to it, thanks! :D BTW this was a great video, it was a great lesson about rejection and making connections and rather inspirational

[@afpwebworks]

Laura, what a story! Those sad times of rejection will pay you back eventually. As they say "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" and I feel sure they helped you to be rounded enough to pass muster in LA In any event it gives me a thrill to see how dedicated you are to your art and how you'll persist through all life throws at you to get where you want to be. I'm no artist but I saw your Bob Ross video and I was simply AWESTRUCK at how fast and talented you are with your digital tools. You are an amazing woman and I thank you for sharing yourself with us.

[@algae9308]

This video makes me believe that there is still hope for me.

[@alyssatejada5772]

You're literally so relatable in your art journey, attitude and just growing up 😭 it literally fills my heart with joy to know there's someone like me who's successful, out there working for Disney, and sharing their experiences on KZbin. Thank you so much for being you and sharing it with us. Much luv 💛

[@IamCurrentlyAscending]

As someone who is frustrated with life at the moment, this was an awesome video. Just to see how things fall into place and how your passions will seek you out. Very cool. Thank you for this.

[@TrickityHouses]

Aww this is a touching story. My childhood up till college sounds exactly the same but with more DBZ and less neopets lol my sister was super into that. I remember coming up with crazy characters and stories, drawing on all the margins of notebooks or school assignments, making stick figure comics, using MS paint to make weird stuff to print out, self taught myself Photoshop and discovering the magic of LAYERS! OMG LAYERS!!! Brings back memories. Great stuff thanks for this. Also spirited away is the best everrrrrrrr. A life changing movie for me.

[@Voltergeist]

I related to a LOT of elements and moments in your story...(I, too, am from the east coast, NJ!!) Thanks so much for sharing. I'm really determined to work as a story artist or revisionist, and your sharing your story really encouraged me to keep going. Thank you so, so much! If I ever feel discouraged, I'll come back around and give this video another listen...!

[@neojaw2192]

People in youtube like you, that love to draw and animate and share their stories and passion, help me keep my own passion for drawing alive. Also, can’t believe that anxiety disorders are so common nowadays... almost 60% of people I know (including me) have some kind of anxiety disorder. Godspeed!

[@HowIDraw]

ohno. It's been years since I fed my Neopet! My poor Neopet. TT_TT

[@playboy8303]

Laura, we're with u.... You're one of the most honest youtubers out there....don't let the stupid anxiety scare u.... Stay Strong...God bless u.....

[@aquadust]

thank you so so much for sharing your journey--i've never related harder to a video before, and this gives me a lot of hope for the future!! i'm currently a senior at a very academics-focused high school (AP, IB, etc.) but i've always had a passion for drawing. i feel like it's too late for me to commit to pursuing animation as a career, because after working so hard academically, my art skill level is nowhere near where it should be compared to other students my age applying to animation schools, but hearing how you went to a liberal arts college and later got into the industry is incredibly inspiring. :)

[@pocholojacaban1859]

You don't know how happy I am right now to have watched this. Thank you so much. You're such a beautiful, genuine person. I also dream of being an artist and you inspire me. Your heart and your passion for art is inspiring. Your journey is inpiring. Thank you so much. I love you, Laura. ❤❤

[@juliacamara7823]

Some points of the beginning of your journey are so similar to mine, I’m so inspired by your success, I hope I can work in the animation industry someday and i wish your future is bright and sucessful! Loved discovering your videos!

[@fiercegirldesign1]

Thanks for sharing your journey with us. My husband and I are huge fans of Tangled the Series. The animation is so beautiful and unique. It's super exciting to be able to "meet" one of the animators from the show!

[@nostalgiajumper0233]

I wanna become a Disney Animator when I grow up. I love art and I’ve always been drawing

[@arvinclay]

You just popped up at random in my feed today. (Right in between a Nine Inch Nails music video and a tutorial on how to sculpt skin textures) I watched it, and I might have teared up a couple of times. Not just because if your art journey (and the too close to home of having to put your art to the side because your friends didn't understand, and you wanted to fit in) but it was the healthy self-awareness you had with mental health issues. THAT was the most inspiring part of the video. You have a new fan, and I can't wait to watch more!

[@bastivagiromel8635]

Im now turning senior highschool this year and my dream job is to be a animator a disney wish me luck guys😘💖

[@alejandracumare4746]

Same here! Good luck

[@isabella.jenk1ns]

Best of luck! Hope to see you there when I graduate from high school

[@transpixel3757]

You can be this perfect of a person. I physically hurt from this "all As, favorite class ..." *me dieing*

[@nerdygameinggurl]

I watched spirited away 5 times when I was a kid I dont even know why I just loved it. It was everything I still don't know why

[@eval4495]

Your story is really inspiring. I also liked much of the same things you did. I played Neopets and loved watching animated films and anime at a young age. I'm in my early 30s now and while I don't have a degree in art, my interest in art never went away. So I think it's cool that you were able to push through and achieve your dream of working as an artist.

[@Mexicanopride246]

I LOVE SPIRITED AWAY

[@aceattorney7when536]

This is such an inspirational video. I currently work a day job and have been working away at a character design portfolio for the past two-ish months after years of back and forth between studying, working different day jobs and trying to find my footing in life, and I can't help but feel pessimistic about finding work in the industry I want to wind up in from time to time, especially being in Australia. But hearing a story like yours is so uplifting and motivating, thank you so much for taking the time to tell us your story! It's left an impact and made my day :)

[@kateucker1993]

Gah you have my dream job! I'm going to FIT this year to potentially go into their animation program and I'm so excited for it. Your videos are so helpful.

[@MrsMuffies]

Man, your childhood and story have so much in common with mine. Seeing you gives me so much hope and motivation. I'm just starting animation school after a bunch of depressing years in illustration, while battling with anxiety myself, and seeing you makes me feel like the journey ahead will be great. Thanks for sharing.

[@Littlebrittanym]

I love this video so much! I had the biggest creative drive in high school and just out of high school I dated a very abusive boyfriend who ruined that drive and altered my vision. After breaking up, about a year and a half I was struggling to stay in school battling depression and getting my gen Ed's done where after I took time off to "find myself" again and suddenly I started drawing again and decided it's what I wanted to do. To this day I struggle with wondering if going for an art degree was a good idea but your video gives me so much hope that the hard work is worth it and to not let anyone tell me I'm less than what I am, or to not sell myself short. Thanks for sharing your story!!

[@jenri2652]

I admire your resolve. I would love a video on how an artist with anxiety (like me) can still succeed as you have!

[@arioctober7867]

Wait a minute Tangled has a series??????? And she gets her hair back????????????????? I needed this...

[@faith4disney]

Where have you been 😭

[@lavernewilliams9399]

Loved your video! I will share your story with our students! Mahalo for sharing!!!! So inspiring!!!

[@YThates]

I heard animator pay at disney is $$$,$$$. Animation isn't my kind of thing to do outside of hobbyist but, congrats! To get hired at disney with or without referral means that you really deserved it and busted your butt. Keep growing!

[@AdobadoFantastico]

I don't believe that's accurate unless you're senior. They have lots of junior animators.

[@BabsChannel]

Disney is and always has been the lowest paying major animation studio.

[@DuskPShermanWallaby123]

@@BabsChannel proof?

[@BabsChannel]

@@DuskPShermanWallaby123 It's funny that you ask for proof on the internet: the biggest source of information in existence. If you want proof, look for it yourself and get back to me.

[@locadeloca9049]

syz·y·gy ↑↑ LMAOOOOOOO00000000ooooooooooo!!!!

[@SketkhW]

As a kid from the boonies of southern Maryland, thank you for your candor on anxiety (mine shuts me down far too often.) and for sharing your journey.

[@parochena]

Thank you for sharing all the rough times you also had along your journey! It’s a real inspiration to try to push through! Thank you! ❤️

[@lulusketches]

parochena of course 💗 thank you for watching!

[@kvval1]

Seriously so inspiring not even just for art. This is a reminder that dreams really can come true in work form as well. Thanks for sharing and I hope you always enjoy what you do!

[@rbybarr]

Hi Laura :) another awesome video. I know you talked about some of these things in your previous videos but hearing your journey in all its glory was so cool. The ending where you talked about Tangled made me smile, I can tell how happy it made/makes you to know you were on the team's wish list despite the setbacks you experienced. Your story is inspiring and gives me hope :) (and the courage to pursue my dreams!)

[@lulusketches]

Ruby B aw! thank you so much!

[@kamiachan]

So where were you in my life?! You and I would have been best friends!!!! You basically described me and what I went through. I’ve always loved anime and Disney. All my friends thought it was weird. I went through the same stages in high school and college. So real stable! Thanks for sharing!

[@WhisperingPinesFarms]

This is amazing! I’m so glad that I found you right now, I’m currently in the process of trying to figure out what art major (graphic designer or illustrator) I want to go into for my future and you really cover a lot in your videos! So thank you!

[@MiiPaintings]

You are such an inspiration for soo many people. Thank you for this video. It’s so interesting to hear the artist story. I love You amd wish you many many more amazing art projects. Thank you for being you ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@danielnigri5829]

God, i didnt even know you till now, but im so happy you made it where you wanted!!!!

[@lulusketches]

Daniel Nigri thank you so much!!!

[@nickmaxwellambient6615]

Anxiety is lovely, isn't it? Ugh, I feel your pain. Also, you are insanely good and have clearly worked hard to get where you are. Great channel.

[@arlenegonzalez8804]

Thank you so much for sharing these videos! As soon as I get notified that you upload, I jump on KZbin so quick! :D Every video is AMAZING!! 💕 Thank you! 😊

[@lulusketches]

thank you so much!!

[@suehypno4u]

Thank you for the inspiring video. As someone who was obsessed with Star Wars when it wasn't cool (particularly Han & Leia), I can relate. I started writing fan fiction while in high school and went through the same issues of wanting to share but discovering that most friends either didn't care or actually mocked me for it. While I had never aspire to be an author, I feel a need to put those characters on a page so they could tell their stories. I became a very successful fan fic writer, but still don't feel a drive to write anything else. However, the skills I picked up along the way did put me into a career that I do enjoy, doing desktop publishing. Never let peer pressure keep you from doing what you love--you never know where that passion may lead you.

[@StevenVacher]

How jealous are your 'friends' now that you're doing a job that you love ??? Great videos, love your art.

[@dandansoysauce8762]

For someone who lacked art resources, went to a public school, is out of state, had no connections, AND had anxiety on top of that, you are such an inspiration!!!! I'm very grateful to say that I live close to LA and have some resources to get my feet through the world of animation, but I still worry about my chances because everyone I know is going to big art schools and my mom wants me to go to an art school and she makes public school sound bad, but really I like the atmosphere of public school better. Also, we can only afford to pay for public school. So hearing you say you were able to make it without all these fancy resources is such a huge relief! I also have really bad social anxiety, and I'm glad you were able to make it through the world without letting anxiety get the better of you! I look up to you a lot and I absolutely love getting information from your videos!!!

[@Mlle.Lamarin]

AAwww I didn't know you studied French ! Funny thing is, you studied french, I studied english and I am french, you're from the states, Virginia, you've lived in france for a year while i lived in the usa, virginia for a year hahahaaa But seriously tho, this video was soooo inspiring ! You've been working soooo hard to get in this wonderful position and doing what you love the most now ! That's awesome and it motivates me a lot ! Thanks for sharing your art journey !

[@jacobsed8432]

This story makes me so happy!!! You are so amazing and talented and goes to show to never give up!

[@sarjay9031]

Eu sou brasileira, entendo um pouco de inglês o que me ajuda muito a te entender, sonho em trabalhar com algo relacionado a animação, muito obrigada por seus videos que são, para mim, esclarecedores! Obrigada! ❤

[@TimothyMomo139]

Thanks. 😄Laura. This is very encouraging 🙏🙏. I guess the path to success is never a straight line. But the ups and downs make the ride fun🎢🛫🛬. Oh and you can also do the anxiety video. I struggle with that too.

[@pauldrawndestiny7520]

I’ve been drawing since the fourth grade I’m 28 now and in 2011 is when I started my very first comic book I knew nothing about background artwork but I’ve been learning about it and now I realize how important it is to know how to be able to do background work my dream is to someday work for marvel hopefully as an animator. Or shonin jump as an anime artist so far haven’t had very much luck with this KZbin channel I’ve been posting on Instagram and Facebook I’ve been doing whatever I can to learn how to become a digital artist because I know that it’s going to be one of the main things I need to know if they are to consider hiring me at some point in my life but your story was very inspirational and I have subscribed and I turn on the bell notification because now I know how important it is as a KZbinr to have that happen hopefully someday I’ll have a success story of my own I can’t wait! 😁

[@masterbruce9137]

11:17 When you said you were NOT chosen, I started liking you even more because you kept on working harder and you are where you are today.

[@rickgraffitti]

It's so inspiring history! Love your work and I have learned a lot with you! Thanks!

[@DeaLenihan]

Being older, I’m into my second career, and you are smart, talented, and inspirational. Thanks for taking the time to make these videos.

[@NickKhoo]

Clearly not asian friends in high school. Spirited Away was our beginners anime ;)

[@barrington5438]

Didn’t know making fun of Miyazaki films were even possible. Honestly. They’re so good and dream-like. Makes me just wanna escape into whatever world the film is building up. Craziness. And nice vid. Glad to see such a humble backstory fir such a successful person in the art community

[@yuvrajmalik7997]

I randomly stumbled upon a video of yours and have two things to say: 1. You have an amazing personality. 2. I love your artwork.

[@delaneyyyb]

Wow this is like my life in a nutshell my goodness! I am just now discovering you. I’m currently in a full life transition from journalism to art so I can follow my childhood dreams of being an artist. And am now in the process of moving to LA and pursuing illustration. This actually helped a lot and makes me feel more empowered to work hard!

[@GenetMJF]

You drew those when you were 11?? Aw man... I have this problem. I feel like after slightly improving my art at the age 12-15 after that it just stopped. No matter how I try to draw, im not improving...

[@tazdraws2087]

Bro I know this is super super late but don't give up. Don't compare yourself to others and if you work hard enough you will get something eventually. I also recommend studying professional artists artwork and ethan becker is q really amazing youtuber to watch for tips.

[@ronanobrien47]

You’re amazing! Thanks for sharing! When you mentioned how you wouldn’t let others define your work, and how you should only have that ability - it hit close to home, I know that persevering and digging deep for motivation is key.