Andrew Lloyd Webber in conversation with Lin-Manuel Miranda

Change The Way You Think

This is such an inspiring uplifting personal story by renowned photographer (and fellow Tennessean) Jeremy Cowart. His journey through early academic/life struggles, art school discoveries and unimaginable commercial success is EPIC!  The world needs more artists like Jeremy Cowart.






Check out more of Jeremy's remarkable work at his website:

// Jeremy Cowart

Children's Book Author-Illustrator Timothy Basil Ering Talks Process and Inspiration

Inspiration of the Day: 'Entreat Me Not to Leave You' by Dan Forrest

We draw inspiration from many things but music for me is at the very top of the list. Today I listened to two amazing works by contemporary composer Dan Forrest. They are super inspiring and will definitely move your heart and spirit. My Dad who sings in the Knoxville (TN) Choral Society actually introduced me to Forrest's music a few years ago. His choir has performed a number pieces by the composer.


"Entreat Me Not to Leave You" by Dan Forrest / Performed by University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire Concert Choir




"Good Night, Dear Heart" by Dan Forrest  / Performed by The Bel Canto Company Choir (Piano played by Dan Forrest)

Finding Vivian Maier

Amazing documentary! Her work is just stunning. I'm going to try to snag this book soon Vivian Maier: Out of the Shadows

More info here:

// The Life and Work of Street Photographer Vivian Maier

Creative Spark: Screenwriter David Seidler

David Seidler - "The Long Journey to the King's Speech"

The Nature of War by StoryCorps

Remembering those who have served this Armistice Day, Veterans Day and Remembrance Day.  This is a beautiful short film by StoryCops... hard to watch.

Conan interviews Jack White

[Inspiration of the day] A great interview with Jack White. He talks about his path into the music business as well as his creative inspirations and motivations. And Conan rocks as well and actually has some serious moments in the interview!  Thanks Tiff for the heads up!

John Cleese - A Lecture On Creativity

This vid as been making the rounds the past few days. Great stuff! John Cleese is a genius :)

'John Cleese tries to explain creativity and how to become more creative. The background of his lecture is scientific, the guide based on his own experience.'

Designer Massimo Vignelli

This is a great short documentary featuring legendary designer Massimo Vignelli. Some of the important points he makes can also be applied to animation and filmmaking. Hence the importance of studying all types of art forms because it can only enhance and enrich our abilities as animators. Here are a few highlights:

Lines last longer.

Details last longer.

Good design lasts longer.

Train yourself to have vision, courage, and determination.

'You should not have a fear of failure... but courage to fail.' -- Massimo Vignelli

Inspiration: David Holt Plays Mountain Music

This TED episode really takes me back to my roots growing up in the foothills of Tennessee. David Holt's passion for folk music and storytelling is very inspirational! He plays "olde tyme" rhythms, instruments, and lyrics that echo from another era. The sweetness of contrast, melody, timing, exaggeration, anticipation, finesse, staging, etc. in music all apply to the craft of animation. I think the same basic words can describe all art forms (ever heard of the golden mean).
Anyhow, enjoy the performance and check out David's website www.davidholt.com!!