If you are looking for the best 3D animation artists USA is the right place to look for them. Big 3D animation studios like Pixar to Dreamworks, US have the best 3D animation studios and artists. You might have seen a number of movies made by the above-mentioned studios but you do not know a lot about the individuals who made those companies successful. 

So, let’s dive in and look at some of the best animation artists in the US and see how these people have revolutionised the world of 3D animation. 

Who Are 3D Animation Artists?

Before we dive into the world of the best 3D animation artists in the USA, let’s start by understanding what defines a 3D animation artist. 

These talented individuals possess a unique skill set that allows them to bring characters and worlds to life through computer-generated imagery. They combine creativity, technical proficiency, and storytelling prowess to craft immersive animated experiences that captivate audiences of all ages.

List of Top 9 3D Animation Artists in The US

There are thousands of 3D animators in the US and you probably know some of them working in a company near you or some of them are even your friends. But as we know not all of them are up to mark as far as expertise are concerned. So, we have chosen names that have changed the way we look at the world of 3D animation. 

We have come up with these names after looking at a number of factors like industry experience and the number of successful projects these individuals have done so far. So, let’s move forward and look at the portfolio of these animators one by one. 

1. Glen Keane
2. Faizan Anwar
3. John Lasseter
4. Andrew Stanton
5. Chris Buck
6. Jennifer Lee
7. Brad Bird
8. Rich Moore
9. Pete Docter

1. Glen Keane

Born: April 13, 1954Abington, Pennsylvania, USA

Famous work: Beauty and the Beast (1991), Tangled (2010) and Tarzan (1999). 

Other works: Illustrates and co-writes “Adam Raccoon” book series

Starting our list with a true luminary in the field, Glen Keane is renowned for his ability to infuse characters with emotion and depth. 

His work on classics like “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast” set the standard for character animation. Keane’s recent masterpiece, “Over the Moon,” beautifully combines traditional and 3D animation techniques, showcasing his adaptability and artistic brilliance.

2. Faizan Anwar 

Famous Work: Gladiator Verse and Sevak

Faizan Anwar is a trailblazer in the realm of 3D animation, serving as the CEO and co-founder of Movingstone Digital, a renowned 3D animation studio based in the United States. With a passion for pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology, Faizan Anwar has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of 3D animation.

Under his visionary leadership, Movingstone Digital has consistently delivered groundbreaking projects that seamlessly blend innovation, storytelling, and cutting-edge animation techniques.

3. John Lasseter

Born: January 12, 1957Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA

Famous works: Toy Story and A Big’s Life

Other works: Book: “Toy Story: The Art and Making of the Animated Film,” w/Steve Daly, 1996. 

John Lasseter’s name is synonymous with Pixar Animation Studios. He co-founded Pixar and directed groundbreaking films like “Toy Story” and “Cars.”

Lasseter’s dedication to storytelling and innovative use of 3D animation made him a trailblazer in the industry. Although he has moved on to other ventures, his influence on animation remains immeasurable.

4. Andrew Stanton

Born: December 3, 1965Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Famous Works: Wall-e and Finding Nemo 

Andrew Stanton’s talent for storytelling shines through in his work on “Finding Nemo” and “WALL-E.” He has a knack for creating captivating narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages. 

5. Chris Buck 

Born: February 24, 1958 (age 65 years), Wichita, Kansas, United States

Famous Work: Frozen 

Chris Buck, along with Jennifer Lee, co-directed the beloved Disney film “Frozen.” Buck’s attention to detail and ability to bring enchanting worlds to life earned him a special place in animation history. 

His collaborative efforts have resulted in films that continue to capture the hearts of viewers worldwide.

6. Jennifer Lee

Born: October 22, 1971Barrington, Rhode Island, USA

Famous Work: Wreck-It Relph and Frozen 2

Jennifer Lee, as the co-director of “Frozen,” played a pivotal role in crafting a narrative that resonated with audiences on a profound level. 

She became the first female director of a Walt Disney Animation Studios feature film, breaking barriers and paving the way for more diverse voices in the industry.

7. Brad Bird

Born: September 24, 1957Kalispell, Montana, USA

Famous Work: The Incredibles and The Iron Giant 

Other works: Directed music video “Do the Bartman”

Brad Bird’s direction of “The Incredibles” and “Ratatouille” showcased his exceptional talent for blending action, humour, and heart. Bird’s dedication to storytelling excellence and his ability to translate his vision into awe-inspiring 3D animation has earned him numerous accolades.

8. Rich Moore

Born: May 10, 1963Oxnard, California, USA

Famous Work: Zootropolis and Futurama 

Rich Moore’s work on “Wreck-It Ralph” and “Zootopia” seamlessly combined elements of gaming and animation, creating immersive and visually stunning worlds. His innovative approach to storytelling and animation techniques has garnered critical acclaim.

9. Pete Docter

Born: October 9, 1968Bloomington, Minnesota, USA

Famous Work: Inside Out and Up

Other works: Created three non-computer animated short films: “Next Door”, “Palm Springs”, & “Winter”.

Pete Docter, the creative genius behind films like “Up” and “Inside Out,” has a unique talent for exploring complex emotions in animation. His ability to delve into the human psyche through animation has earned him recognition as one of the industry’s leading visionaries.

These remarkable artists have left an indelible mark on the world of 3D animation, captivating audiences with their storytelling prowess and technological innovation. Their contributions continue to shape the future of animation in the USA and beyond.

How to Begin Your Journey as a 3D Animation Artist

Becoming a 3D animation artist is an exciting and creative endeavour. To help you embark on this journey, here are five essential steps that will guide you towards a successful career:

1. Learn the Basics: Start by mastering the fundamental principles of animation, such as timing, spacing, and character movement. Understanding these basics is crucial for creating compelling animations.

2. Software Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with industry-standard 3D animation software like Maya, Blender, or Cinema 4D. These tools are essential for bringing your creative visions to life.

3. Portfolio Development: Build a strong portfolio that showcases your best work. Include a variety of projects that demonstrate your skills and creativity. A compelling portfolio is your ticket to landing job opportunities.

4. Networking: Connect with professionals in the animation industry through online communities, social media, and networking events. Building a network can provide valuable insights and job opportunities.

5. Continuous Practice: Animation is an art that improves with practice. Dedicate time to honing your skills, experimenting with new techniques, and staying updated on industry trends.

Conclusion

The USA is home to a treasure trove of exceptional talents. These artists have not only enriched the world of animation but have also inspired countless aspiring animators to follow in their creative footsteps. Their legacy serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities of imagination and technology in the world of entertainment.