CTN Expo 2009 [Archive] - Don Bluth Animation Forum

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Dave

10-23-2009, 04:15 PM

Don Bluth and Gary Goldman will be attending the CTN Expo in the Burbank Convention Center on November 20th - 22nd. Our booth number is BLUTX09.
Members of Don's Club can use our special discount code, which is: BLUTX09. Anyone that registers using this code will receive a 10% discount on their pass (this discount will not apply to students since their passes are already discounted).
Don and Gary are scheduled to hold a discussion with Jerry Beck at in Room 2 at 5:00 PM on Saturday, November 21st. The discussion should last for 45 minutes. From what I understand, there is a 20 minute question/answer session after the discussion with Jerry Beck. Here's the link:
http://www.ctnanimationexpo.com/the-pioneers-don-bluth-gary-goldman/
Thought we would start a list to see how many of you guys may be attending the Expo. Start posting your names below if you're going to be there. It will be great to meet you guys.

lavallelee

10-23-2009, 04:20 PM

Lavalle Lee McGuirk

wolfsymphony

10-23-2009, 04:22 PM

Dave

10-23-2009, 04:26 PM

Just wondering, is it possible for the panel discussion to be recorded and put up online for those who live in other countries & cannot make it to the expo to see? I'm sure there's a lot of us who would be really interested to watch and listen to what will be discussed there.

Smart thinking Batman! I'll find out if it's ok to bring our cameras so I can tape the session then edit and post on Youtube.

Richard Willimot

10-23-2009, 04:31 PM

That would be most appreciated thank you.

Moneyguns

10-23-2009, 04:35 PM

Smart thinking Batman!

:laughing:

OwenWelsh

10-23-2009, 04:44 PM

I'll be there! Looking forward to it,

Owen Welsh.:)

jeremyhopkins

10-23-2009, 04:48 PM

Jeremy Hopkins

You're not coming Dave?

edit:
I'll find out if it's ok to bring our cameras so I can tape the session then edit and post on Youtube.
Oops, reading is a good thing.

arif

10-23-2009, 07:45 PM

Smart thinking Batman! I'll find out if it's ok to bring our cameras so I can tape the session then edit and post on Youtube.

Excellent!!!..

Thank you Wolf for bringing the question.i was thinking exactly same way...
Guys, dont forget us when you meet with Don and Dave.....get more pics and video for us....we will be really missing that opportunity to meet with Don...

Regards,

Arif:rolleyes:

Alexandra Poston

10-25-2009, 08:01 AM

Alexandra Poston

I'll be bringing my camera to the expo and taping what I can. If you guys get creeped out by my constant video-taping, I apologize in advance. :) Excited to see you all there!

Alexandra Poston

10-25-2009, 08:03 AM

Also, I think I posted this on the other thread, but I tried registering with that code to get the 10% off, and they told me that the code was 'BLUTHX09'. So, if BLUTX09 isn't working for someone, try that instead.

jtq3

10-25-2009, 05:38 PM

I will be there. Looking forward to it.

I have an original press kit for The Secret of NIMH (from my old college newspaper days) that I'll have with me in the event anyone named Don and Gary might be interested in signing it for me. :-)

zanekohler

10-27-2009, 12:03 PM

I just got my tickets for Saturday! I will be in attendance! :D

Dave

10-28-2009, 12:07 PM

Jeremy Hopkins

You're not coming Dave?

edit:
Oops, reading is a good thing.

I'll be there with bells on!

AJartist

10-28-2009, 12:40 PM

TimothyB

10-28-2009, 01:49 PM

Hey, guys

I certainly will be there. Hurrah!! However, just to let you guys know about the banner on the Ctn website is still in effect..........."First 100 attendees to book a 2 night stay at the event hotel get a free 3 day pass"

I just called registration (818-840-6454) and asked if all 100 spots have been taken up. and it turns out there are 6 emptly slots left! Just to let you guys know I've already taken up one of them this morning!

yeah, 240 bucks for three days at a nice hotel and free tickets. good deal!

-A.J.

Are the tickets the exhibit floor only, or the full general/pro tickets? EDIT: One section of the site says it's the Full Event tickets.

I'm not a student or anything, but this event looks like it can be very inspiring and wonderful to see all the talent. I had some vacation starting the 22nd of Nov, maybe I can move it forward to get the 3 days off for this. Looking at Southwest airlines, they have roundtrip for $100 before fees to the Burbank airport from Sacramento. The hotel is right there on the airport right?

In an hour I'll be at work to see if I can even get the time off.

zanekohler

10-29-2009, 10:32 AM

Are the tickets the exhibit floor only, or the full general/pro tickets? EDIT: One section of the site says it's the Full Event tickets.

I'm not a student or anything, but this event looks like it can be very inspiring and wonderful to see all the talent. I had some vacation starting the 22nd of Nov, maybe I can move it forward to get the 3 days off for this. Looking at Southwest airlines, they have roundtrip for $100 before fees to the Burbank airport from Sacramento. The hotel is right there on the airport right?

In an hour I'll be at work to see if I can even get the time off.

Sounds like life is telling you that you should! Hopefully you can get the time off. When looking at google maps the airport is right next to it. I would bet they have free shuttles if staying at the hotel.

Also FYI for those who are just getting one night. I did the group rate code they offer and said there were no more rooms. I rechecked without the group rate and rooms are available. If you have AAA it is just a few bucks more than their group rate.

TimothyB

10-30-2009, 02:44 PM

Darn, I took too long to figure out my days off and travel, the free ticket spots have been filled. I called 1-800-604-2238 extenstion 104 to talk to Desiree at CTN and she confirmed the spots have been filled and doesn't think they plan to extend it, so that is now over. Though, the special CTN room rate is still available.

I'm still considering, the coupon from here should help. Got a day or two before the ticket prices go up.

segun

11-01-2009, 04:36 PM

I'll be there as well.
I hope the get together thing works out, i'll love to meet you all.

AJartist

11-07-2009, 06:05 PM

are we all getting together??? If so, I'd love to show my portfolio around
IF we are, somebody reply and lemme know how its going to work. And i'll write my number and info on my profile

Alexandra Poston

11-08-2009, 12:06 AM

Whether or not the meet and greet works out, I hope we all do arrange to meet up or hang out somewhere. I'm a little nervous about visiting somewhere outside the state without being with someone I really know- which means I'm super excited to meet loads of new people. Especially people who are so excited about animation. Maybe we can doodle together, haha.

TimothyB

11-08-2009, 04:44 PM

I'll be there too, booked two nights at the Marriott for all 3 days. Doing a 5 hour drive and hope to arrive on Friday just as things start.

AnimatorX

11-10-2009, 05:33 PM

Hoo boy! This oughta be loads of fun! I'll be there. Maybe there should be a get-together for forum posters :}

zanekohler

11-10-2009, 06:34 PM

Would be cool to do a meet up. I think some things we need to work out.

I think we would have to try and pick a time that is not during events and a location/spot easy to find. Not sure if anyone has ever been to the convention floor there who would know of a place?

It sounds like there might be some after hours party events? If there is maybe we can meet up at one of those events. Wear a special pin and create a secret handshake ;)

Just some ideas...open to any other suggestions?

AnimatorX

11-10-2009, 07:02 PM

An after hours party at or near the hotel would rock. Perhaps I'll inquire within about renting out one of the convention spaces. If none are available, don't forget this is Los Angeles and there are TONS of great places to meet up.

Don Bluth

11-11-2009, 04:01 PM

We're very excited about attending the CTN Expo in Burbank, CA in November. We're especially looking forward to meeting all of you that can attend. We will have a booth (Booth 12) in the main room and there we will be able to give you more details about a good meeting place to talk.
See you there.

OwenWelsh

11-11-2009, 04:08 PM

Hammy

11-11-2009, 09:41 PM

I will be there with my school animation club friends. :) I also volunteered for the event, hope to see you guys there!

AJartist

11-14-2009, 05:33 PM

Hey, guys. Just in case any club members want to get together for lunch or dinner afterwards my #is 254 338 9533. I heard theres an olive Garden and outback nearby! Yum. I mention outback cuz I have a giftcard for it. :D-a.j.

Dave

11-17-2009, 12:32 PM

The nice people running the CTN expo have offered us a meeting room in the convention center at 2:00pm on Friday. Not sure where it is yet but I'll keep you posted as soon as I know more.

OwenWelsh

11-17-2009, 12:44 PM

The nice people running the CTN expo have offered us a meeting room in the convention center at 2:00pm on Friday. Not sure where it is yet but I'll keep you posted as soon as I know more.

Have fun guys! I'm only there on Sat. Looks like I picked the wrong day! Maybe I'll see some of you around... :)

zanekohler

11-17-2009, 05:57 PM

Ah same here, I will only be there Saturday. But very cool that a room is available!

If we wanted to swing by the booth, is there a particular time that is best to stop by and say hi?

Looking forward to it!

jeremyhopkins

11-17-2009, 07:15 PM

The nice people running the CTN expo have offered us a meeting room in the convention center at 2:00pm on Friday. Not sure where it is yet but I'll keep you posted as soon as I know more.
That's very nice and I'll be there!

I heard theres an olive Garden and outback nearby! Yum. I mention outback cuz I have a giftcard for it. -a.j.
Sounds like you're offering to take us for dinner. Count me in :P

joedorsey

11-17-2009, 09:55 PM

I hope you all have a great time there. L.A. has all the great animation events going on!

Alexandra Poston

11-18-2009, 06:36 AM

I'll be there at 2pm If I can find it :) I'm so excited, I'm jittery!
and AJ, dinner sounds great! Its nice to know that there'll be a group to hang with when I get there. This thing's going to be crazy fun. I'm counting down the hours to my plane flight tomorrow.

jtq3

11-18-2009, 10:22 PM

The Marriot is very close to the airport so, you shouldn't expect too much as far as restaurants are concerned. There's a Daily Grill, Panda Express, Denny's and a Dell Taco in the area. The Olive Garden is at Empire Center which is a pretty good drive from there. If you don't have a car you will certainly need to cab it. It's too far to walk.

For those of you who are going to rent a car there are a ton of great restaurants up in the "Burbank Media Center" (East of the 5 Freeway between Magnolia and Olive Ave).

For nerdy sightseers (as I was when I first arrived in LA) Nickelodeon Studio is on Olive Ave (below the Media Center, West of the 5 between Lake and Victory), Warner Bros Studio is at the bottom of Hollywood Way (follow H'wood Way South to Riverside Drive). Facing the WB you can turn left and travel 2 miles down Riverside Drive to the Disney Studio (the mailing address is 500 South Buena Vista but it takes up a full city block so, it's on Riverside as well). The Feature Animation Building (the one with Mickey's Sorcerer's Apprentice hat) is across the street on Riverside.

If you GOOGLE Bob Hope Airport or Burbank Convention Center and click on the 'Map" tab you can get to a street view of the area by dragging the little man icon from the zoom tool to the map.

Feel free to e-mail me with any questions. I can't guarantee a satisfactory answer but, I'll try.

jtq31964@gmail.com

John

zanekohler

11-18-2009, 11:32 PM

OwenWelsh

11-19-2009, 10:57 AM

I am bummed I wont be there Friday, however I assume most of you will be attending the Bluth /Goldman seminar? The very least it would be nice for a few minutes to maybe meet up after for introductions and to say hi in person? Anyone interested?

I am not sure about my own evening schedule as of yet, but those who are open could schedule a dinner location at that time?

Zane I won't be there for Friday either. I'm up for dinner after the Bluth seminar on Sat. It would be cool if we could get a group together. Any others interested?

AnimatorX

11-19-2009, 12:32 PM

i'm interested:}

jeremyhopkins

11-19-2009, 03:20 PM

I'm at the Marriott now. If anyone wants to meet up, my room is 427. Hope to see you guys tomorrow!

zanekohler

11-19-2009, 03:41 PM

I'm at the Marriott now. If anyone wants to meet up, my room is 427. Hope to see you guys tomorrow!
Sweet...We know where the party is now ;). I will have a room Saturday night.Not sure which until I check in.

Jeremy is it free internet access in the room? My wife has to bring the lap top and get some work done. I see they have it, just not sure if it is free or how ever it works there.

Hope to maybe catch you there at some point!

Oh and if anyone can take some pictures of the friday meeting would love to see them!
-z-

TimothyB

11-19-2009, 03:42 PM

I'll be driving to the Marriott early Friday morning, hope to get there by noon, just as everything starts. I'll be there for all 3 days.

I hope to have fun meeting everyone. I don't plan to have a portfolio, but maybe I'll pull a few things together digitally if anyone asks or some show and tell thing happens.

I'll be up for any dinner get together too. I couldn't get anyone to travel with me, so going to restaurants by myself can be awkward.

Is the Marriott still charging something like $15 a day to park during the expo?

TimothyB

11-19-2009, 03:46 PM

Sweet...We know where the party is now ;). I will have a room Saturday night.Not sure which until I check in.

Jeremy is it free internet access in the room? My wife has to bring the lap top and get some work done. I see they have it, just not sure if it is free or how ever it works there.

Hope to maybe catch you there at some point!

Oh and if anyone can take some pictures of the friday meeting would love to see them!
-z-

I just got a DSLR Pentax K-x, so I plan to put this new camera to the test, even maybe some HD video. With permission of course, I don't want to step on anyone's toes, especially during the meeting. I wonder if I should procure a tripod for group shots.

johncbeggs

11-19-2009, 11:05 PM

I'm at the Marriott now. If anyone wants to meet up, my room is 427. Hope to see you guys tomorrow!

jeremy man :laughing: ! if I could be in hollywood right now I would be.
have a fun time everyone thats able to make it!

jeremyhopkins

11-19-2009, 11:40 PM

Jeremy is it free internet access in the room? My wife has to bring the lap top and get some work done. I see they have it, just not sure if it is free or how ever it works there.

Yes, they have internet in the rooms but I didn't bring my laptop so I don't know if its free. I assume so because the internet in the lobby is free.

I wonder if I should procure a tripod for group shots.
I have a tripod here that you can use. It's nothing fancy but it gets the job done.

jeremy man ! if I could be in hollywood right now I would be.
have a fun time everyone thats able to make it!
Yeah I really enjoy trips to LA. John is right though.. not a whole lot to see out by the airport but its close to a lot of other places. After Burbank, I'll be staying in Anaheim so if anyone is out that way, let me know when we meet up!

jeremyhopkins

11-19-2009, 11:48 PM

Also thought I should let people who are arriving at LAX know to avoid the taxis if possible and ask for the orange supershuttle. It's $25 rather than a lot more for the taxi though you might have to wait for the driver to pick up and drop off the other passengers.

zanekohler

11-20-2009, 12:05 AM

Yes, they have internet in the rooms but I didn't bring my laptop so I don't know if its free. I assume so because the internet in the lobby is free.

I have a tripod here that you can use. It's nothing fancy but it gets the job done.

Yeah I really enjoy trips to LA. John is right though.. not a whole lot to see out by the airport but its close to a lot of other places. After Burbank, I'll be staying in Anaheim so if anyone is out that way, let me know when we meet up!

Awesome thanks for the heads up! If you have access to the site at all I would love to hear updates of how Friday went? But totally understand if you get busy or can't.

ok back to the grind to try and get my animation assignment done on time so I can arrive on Saturday!

TimothyB

11-20-2009, 07:25 AM

About to head out on my 5 hour drive along I-5, plus time for slow traffic and breakfast. So I hope to get there just as the doors open at 12.

arif

11-20-2009, 08:40 AM

jeremyhopkins

11-20-2009, 09:56 AM

Guys..guys...guys....dont forget us who will not able to be there by posting photos..videos.... and current news.....i will be waiting here to see some pics of all in persons and Don, Dave.......
I didn't bring a laptop so you'll have to wait till I'm back in Canada for an update with video and photos from me but I promised to record as much as possible. Sit tight and don't worry. I'm sure those who make it home sooner will let you know what's up.

jtq3

11-20-2009, 10:30 AM

Has anyone put a list of attending forum members together? I've gone through this thread and have found;

Dave
Lavalle Lee
Owen Welsh
Zane Kohler
Jeremy Hopkins
Alexandra Poston
AJ
Segun
Timothy B
Animator X
Hammy

Have I missed anyone?

Hammy

11-20-2009, 12:12 PM

TimothyB

11-20-2009, 02:46 PM

Photos on my Twitter account, TimothyB123

zanekohler

11-20-2009, 04:41 PM

Photos on my Twitter account, TimothyB123

Sweet! thanks for posting the photos!

zanekohler

11-20-2009, 04:47 PM

Where and when are we meeting though?

I would say if we don't come up with something sooner to try and meet up after Bluth's Seminar as I assume most of us will be there or attempt to.

If anyone has been in any seminars and has seen the room that could mention a corner or someplace out of traffics way that people could meet up?

zanekohler

11-20-2009, 04:58 PM

I'm a Booth Buddy volunteer on Saturday and Sunday, I'm currently here now too and I think we do have to pay for the internet in the room. Since I am splitting it with my friends so it's not too bad.

My room is 616 if anyone wants to meet up, ask for Hammy though since we have a group here. But I'm likely going to be running around instead!

Where and when are we meeting though?

It looks like it said on the marriott site "Guest Rooms: Wired "

are you using any cables? and if so what ones?

Thanks for the information! sounds like it is a ball!

Dave

11-20-2009, 06:59 PM

Internet access is free for 24 hours at the hotel. I'm wireless. Met some of you guys at the Bluth meeting; great to finally put a face to the names. Got some great footage of the meeting; hope the sound works ok since Don yanked the mic off his lapel during a demonstration.
Met JTQ, Alexandra Poston, Jeremy, Segun, AJartist, West...Hope I didn't forget anyone. Got some images too. I'll try upload after dinner.

jtq3

11-20-2009, 07:31 PM

http://donbluthanimation.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=138&pictureid=711

Great day. So good to meet everyone. Don was extremely generous with his time. Very thoughtful. Looking forward to tomorrow!

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=138&pictureid=709

johncbeggs

11-20-2009, 07:39 PM

can you lable the names over the club members :D , I havent seen most of you!

arif

11-20-2009, 09:02 PM

[QUOTE=jtq3;9176]http://donbluthanimation.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=138&pictureid=711

may be i can recognize Segun, Alexzandra Poston and of course Don(:laughing::laughing:).and may be Dave(right side of the screen, second raw..considering of his age.hahhahahaha) who is Jeremy?? and where are you John ??...waiting for rest of them.....

Regards,
Arif:cool:

arif

11-20-2009, 09:08 PM

TimothyB

11-20-2009, 10:16 PM

With the wired connection, 24 hours seems to be $12.99. I tried to do wireless with an odd unsecured network, but nothing, will try again. Typing this from an iPhone. I'm the guy in the blue shirt , bottom left on a knee.

Hammy

11-20-2009, 10:54 PM

Aw, looks like I missed today's meet up. Will you guys be doing another tomorrow? Matt and I met up but couldn't find anyone for the meet up.

Maybe I will ask the guys at Don's booth directly tomorrow.

jtq3

11-20-2009, 10:58 PM

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=138&pictureid=712

I think I've got names correct and I'm sorry I missed 2 of our group. I hope we can get everyone together for a full group shot tomorrow.
I've been holding onto this Secret of NIMH press kit for almost 30 years! Gary and Don signed it for me today.

http://www.donbluthanimation.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=151&pictureid=713

arif

11-20-2009, 11:33 PM

hahahahahahah...John...i thought you as a Dave.....sorry my imagination.....:laughing::laughing: and wow for you have got the autograph.....
and Thank you for your sharing......

Regards,
Arif

AnimatorX

11-21-2009, 12:48 AM

We need info on where and when tomorrow's meeting will be

johncbeggs

11-21-2009, 01:33 AM

thanks john , I appreciate the labeling of the members
:D

haha I thought for sure lavallele would have been their!

How was it like speaking directly to Don, a bit nervous! a man to have made so many heartfelt movies hes for sure a nice guy.

jeremyhopkins

11-21-2009, 03:06 AM

a man to have made so many heartfelt movies hes for sure a nice guy.
Yes, he is and everyone else was nice as well. There's a good group of people on the forum and I'm happy to be know everyone a little better!

joedorsey

11-21-2009, 03:31 AM

Looks like you all are having a great time. Have fun!

wolfsymphony

11-21-2009, 06:30 AM

Looks like it was fun!! Have another great day tomorrow guys! Want to see and hear alllllll about it when you get back:laughing:

zanekohler

11-21-2009, 09:43 AM

I think I've got names correct and I'm sorry I missed 2 of our group. I hope we can get everyone together for a full group shot tomorrow.
I've been holding onto this Secret of NIMH press kit for almost 30 years! Gary and Don signed it for me today.

Thats awesome to get that signed! well cool I know what some of you look like. So now if I see you walking by I might be able to identify you. If you see someone staring at you in a "Do I know you" way, dont run just yet. it might be me ;).
I am getting ready to start my drive up in just a few moments!!! Just a couple hours away!

zanekohler

11-21-2009, 10:49 PM

TimothyB

11-21-2009, 11:21 PM

Great day, atteneded many panels and the Banjo and Secret of Kells screening. I have nothing to do now so I'm already in line for Waking Sleeping Beauty documentary.

arif

11-21-2009, 11:24 PM

WOW awesome day! Met and hung out with Owen today. Owen...awesome getting to meet you! Hope you had a good flight back. Also met Segun.

The Don/Gary Panel was awesome. They were both very inspiring. Was great to meet Mr.Bluth in person!
With any luck I will meet more of you before I leave. If not hope you all have a safe trip back home!
Great to know that forum members are meeting each others and they are so happy with that....
Din`t you take any pictures of yours and Don/Garry??we are anxiously waiting here to hear and see something more....

Kindly Regards,
Arif

Dave

11-22-2009, 12:37 AM

wolfsymphony

11-22-2009, 01:44 AM

If you weren't able to attend the panel meeting with Don & Gary, don't worry! I taped the whole event and plugged into the master sound panel for audio. As soon as I hit the office, I'll edit and upload the movie to the server.
Great! Thanks Dave, really looking forward to seeing it!

johncbeggs

11-22-2009, 02:34 AM

arif

11-22-2009, 02:55 AM

If you weren't able to attend the panel meeting with Don & Gary, don't worry! I taped the whole event and plugged into the master sound panel for audio. As soon as I hit the office, I'll edit and upload the movie to the server.

You did excellent job there Dave....so exited to see that event.....Thank you again...

Regards,
Arif:laughing:

joedorsey

11-22-2009, 03:34 AM

Thanks Dave! I'm sure it will be great.

jtq3

11-22-2009, 11:48 AM

If you weren't able to attend the panel meeting with Don & Gary, don't worry! I taped the whole event and plugged into the master sound panel for audio. As soon as I hit the office, I'll edit and upload the movie to the server.

Dave,
will you post the forum meeting from Friday as well?
John

Dave

11-22-2009, 01:32 PM

Dave,
will you post the forum meeting from Friday as well?
John

No Problem...

OwenWelsh

11-22-2009, 03:29 PM

A few of us were in the lobby of the Marriott Convention center when I looked at the time. It was 6:33pm and my return flight was for 7:25pm to Oakland. “Goodbye Mr. Bluth! I have to go!” “It was really great meeting you, we'll be talking on the forums.” Don said genuinely. “D-d-d-definitely!” I stuttered – I'm horrible at goodbyes. A quick shuttle to Bob Hope Airport, a bite of sushi and I was ready to board. As we ascended into the clouds the stewardess came by, “Can I get you anything?” “Vodka tonic” I replied smiling. As I sipped my medicine I began to reminisce about my amazing day and all the extraordinary people I met.

I remember arriving in Burbank around 10:20am earlier that day and taking a shuttle to the convention center. As I circled the building I thought to myself, “what a tiny building.” As I entered the main exhibition floor I wasn't let down. It was the smallest convention I'd ever laid my eyes on but curiously it had a warm feeling. There weren't ridiculous crowds filling the aisles or costumed fans wandering about. It was a room filled with artists and students, many of whom were hungry for work and full of hope. It was easy enough to drop by anyone's booth and strike up a little conversation.

Upon entering the exhibition floor b-lined straight for the Don Bluth Films booth. Luckily I had seen a picture on donbluthanimation.com prior to arriving and I knew it was situated beneath an exit sign. “There they are...” I whispered. I started to walk up to their booth but then I hesitated and walked away. I had no idea what I was going to say! I hadn't really thought about actually speaking to Don, Dave or Gary, only merely attending the CTN. Foolishly I wandered around the corner and tried to calm down and gather my thoughts. Then when my head returned I approached their table and extended my hand “Mr. Bluth, Owen Welsh.” “You are Owen!” Don said with surprise. “Yes!?” Don turned to Dave, “Dave this is Owen!” After my appreciation speech about donbluthanimation.com and my undying admiration for it and its members I began to reflect on all the recent teachings Don had recently revealed to me. “Don, I'm starting to see shapes in my drawings and the whole lines against curves philosophy has really helped my drawings”

“Do you know where I learned that principle? It was on Sleeping Beauty. Here let me show you something.” Don snatched a piece of paper and a sharpened pencil and began to draw. He drew a picture of a character with lots of tiny details in the face area, and the characters arms and hands were posed, almost framing the head. Then he drew a big belly and some simple legs. Notice how the drawing on the right is very average in its proportions and its not readily apparent where to look. On the left drawing the proportions are exaggerated and you immediately look at the head and arm areas.

http://donbluthanimation.com/Uploads/doodle.jpg

The point he was trying to illustrate was focal point within a drawing and how important it is to have variety in proportions. The idea seemed so simple yet so illusive to such a green animator like me. Don's message was clear. Let it not be that we only stage our layouts and backgrounds with a focal point, but also our drawings and animation so there can be greater clarity and interest. I found myself wanting to know more, I had a million burning questions and ideas to divulge but there was a line forming behind me. Dave was horribly busy pushing Don Bluth Tutorial and Banjo DVDs but we did get a few words in. I thought it was interesting to learn how Don adopted Dave from Ireland! I'm glad that Dave decided to hang with us in the states. Ireland can be so cold and dreary (so I've heard ;-)). Gary was in constant engagement so I chatted a bit with Joe Hernandez the marketing director at DonBluth.com. Did you know that there are 9 films in the works at Don Bluth Films? Someone find these guys some money --- puuulease.

Luckily I met Segun at Don's Booth. Segun, graduate of Academy of Art and now at CSU East Bay, has huge potential has a character animator. I found out that Segun is moving very close to where I live so we will definitely be talking. Check out his website at www.segun-animation.com. Later, Zane and Rhiannon Kohler arrived. Zane is currently at animationmentor.com making amazing progress, already on class 5! Greatness is upon us, as I've noticed that animationmentor has a habit of pumping out excellent animators. It was great hanging out with him and his wife for the rest of the day. Check out Zane's website at www.zanekohler.com. We scoured the booths at CTN for a few hours, I'm sure we saw everything twice. Many of the artists there were very familiar because I have seen them at other conventions. It was notable that Andreas Deja was there, doing signings and sketches. He's done some great work on Disney villains like Jafar, Scar and Gaston.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p143/robertow/dondavezaneandreascomp.jpg
Top left: Zane Kohler, Andreas Deja, Dave Monahan and Don Bluth

As evening approached we risked the cold and began to line up outside the convention center in anticipation for Don and Gary's toon talk. Incredibly, Zane, Rhiannon and I were in the first row and had the privilege of experiencing it all up close and personal. Before the seminar began snippets of movie trailers from the 12 Bluth films lit up the screen. I couldn't help but look at Don and Gary a few times as they watched the reel and wonder what they were thinking about. Ideally in my mind I hope they felt proud of how much they accomplished, the artist in me thought... I hope Don isn't looking for all the flaws (I know how hard it is to look at your own work). Or perhaps they were simply thinking about what they were going to say during the seminar! These little stories kept me entertained while the reel played. Most of the seminar chronicled their struggle and independence from Disney and it was interesting to note that their garage project Banjo was not originally a means to independence. Banjo the Woodpile Cat was out there to raise questions so Don and Gary could figure out how the whole process worked and how expensive those extra effects like shadows, reflections and sparkles in the water really were. It was not made because they wanted to leave Disney or to get funding for their own studio. It was only later after Disney execs snubbed their efforts that Banjo became the proof the investors needed for Don and Gary's independence. Later in the seminar there were some inspirational words conveyed and I think the audience was really only beginning to digest what Don and Gary had to say. Unfortunately time took over and the seminar ended abruptly. Honestly we could have used at least 2 more hours.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p143/robertow/bluth_seminar_ireland.jpg
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I apologize for my shaky hands. Dave's video and audio will be vastly superior, I'm sure.

After the seminar it was made possible to talk to Don out in the lobby. After the crowds cooled I jumped back in with my questions. As I stumbled over some words, realizing from time to time that I was speaking to Don himself it became readily apparent how humble, gentle and warm Don is. A straight shooter, stand up kinda guy. Don is incredibly perceptive, but if you start speaking he becomes silent and listens to what you have say. He doesn't attempt to talk over you. I consciously had to shut up a few times just so the man could speak. From what I gathered, Don has great plans for the next Cyber Garage project. I don't want to say anything here as I am sure they want to do a grand reveal. Needless to say, I'm very excited about Gary and Don's ideas and for the future.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p143/robertow/meanddon.jpg

P.S.
Dave, when do I get an invite to your restaurant? I hope you noticed that there was a fighting leprechaun on my t-shirt!

Moneyguns

11-22-2009, 06:02 PM

Thanks for the sweet info Owen. Vary inlightning.:)

AJartist

11-23-2009, 03:25 AM

Hey, guys

I'm typing this up in my home at Texas, right now, and it has not yet sunk in that that this weekend is over.

I don't know if I'm alone in this, but didn't it seem that friday was the best part of the weekend? It really was the "slow" day everybody expected, didn't it?

However, the bad part of all this was that I only met up with only four of you. Weren't we all supposed to hang out somewhere during the evening? haha, Me and Alexandra were thinking about going dancing at the party, however, they were closed, so we decided to go to the grill instead.

I'm still grouchy that I missed the meeting earlier in the day. It was one of the things I was really looking foward to. It was really my fault,....when I had gotten there earlier, I had seen Gary speaking with the booth buddy. They seemed deep in a conversation and I didn't want to be rude and interupt. So I circled around the convention room a few times and came back to see if it was ok to ask where the meeting was, I saw they were still talking. When I had finally worked up the courage to approach the booth, I had found out that the meeting had already taken place!! I'm still kicking myself for missing it :mad: Yes, I know the whole thing was taped, but being there would of been much better.

I wasn't that dissapointed, I already had my time with Don and Gary at Emeryville, San Francisco back in 2001. Yeah, they were having a two day seminar; And the crowd that showed up was surprisingly small, so it was easy to have contact with the both of them. However, even though I missed the meeting last friday, its great to know that other people have had their time with them. As a side note, I think the smallness of the san fran crowd had something to do with post 9/11. yeah, I've always was on the look out to see if there was going to be another one of those toon-up seminars. It be a dream if we can all get more associated at one of those type of events without having to worry about big crowds. :)

nevertheless, it was a great weekend. And I think its going to be a one-of-a-kind experience!! Before you know it, this thing is going to be as big as comic con which will make it more difficult to approach artist and make associations. I strongly beleive that. Thats why I tried to savor every moment of the event. However, hopefully I'm wrong and it will be many years before it attracts that monster type of crowd, because I'm already reved and ready for next year!!! whos with me?? LOL

Hammy

11-23-2009, 04:18 AM

I feel you there AJArtist, I wish I attended the meeting on Friday too but I am still very grateful to have met with Don in person. I don't quite know what to ask or say when we met up because I was so exhausted from an overnight road trip, I wish I planned it better though.

Thank you Don for signing my Storyboard book again. That book is a favorite of mine and I always looked back at it for inspiration and revising my storyboard skills. :)

westmunz

11-23-2009, 10:31 AM

I just wanted to say what a pleasure it was to meet a lot of you on Friday! Thanks Don and Dave for taking the time to talk with us, it was incredibly inspiring and fun to hear some great animation stories and talk about the direction of the website. I still can't believe how lucky we are to have Don Bluth sharing his knowledge with us! Thanks again, I had an awesome weekend!

West

zanekohler

11-23-2009, 10:31 AM

Great recaps everybody. I was with Owen most of the day so he said it far better than I could so I will just throw out "ditto".

It was indeed an inspiring weekend. I sort of feel like I was a walking zombie as I had not had a lot of sleep trying to get homework done to be able to attend. However It was such an enrgy high I somehow was able to stay up and watch the last screening. Even when I finally went to bed, as tired as I was I had trouble sleeping. My mind was replaying all the cool events.

Dave

11-24-2009, 03:42 PM

?Do you know where I learned that principle? It was on Sleeping Beauty. Here let me show you something.? Don snatched a piece of paper and a sharpened pencil and began to draw. He drew a picture of a character with lots of tiny details in the face area, and the characters arms and hands were posed, almost framing the head. Then he drew a big belly and some simple legs. Here's my attempt at recreating his drawing. Notice how drawing #1 is very average in its proportions and its not readily apparent where to look. On drawing number 2 the proportions are exaggerated and you immediately look at the head and arm areas.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p143/robertow/donsexampleoffocalpoint.jpg

The point he was trying to illustrate was focal point within a drawing and how important it is to have variety in proportions. The idea seemed so simple yet so illusive to such a green animator like me. Don's message was clear. Let it not be that we only stage our layouts and backgrounds with a focal point, but also our drawings and animation so there can be greater clarity and interest. I found myself wanting to know more, I had a million burning questions and ideas to divulge but there was a line forming behind me.
Owen,
Here's the original picture that Don drew at the CTN Expo... I found it in my bag today and thought you may like it posted here...

Thanks

http://donbluthanimation.com/Uploads/doodle.jpg

OwenWelsh

11-24-2009, 04:09 PM

Yes! That's the one! Thanks for saving it and posting it! Wow I was way off on that one. Proof that I don't have photographic memory :) I'll update my post with it.

TimothyB

11-24-2009, 04:41 PM

I uploaded a bunch of photos from the Expo. Hit slide show to see them large fast.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/timothybh/sets/72157622745886549/detail/

AnimatorX

11-24-2009, 05:31 PM

I was only able to make it to CTX on Friday. But it was great, saw Don and gary was very accommodating as usual. Thanks guys, for giving us your time and effort.

Alexandra Poston

11-27-2009, 12:43 PM

The CTN animation expo was AMAZING! Certainly the experience of the year, and I hope to attend in up coming years too, when I improve my artwork and have more to show.

My plane flights from Georgia to California had been delayed and canceled, so I ended up actually arriving in Burbank at around noon on Friday. I was so upset after hearing my flight was canceled, in fear that I would miss Don's seminar! But I made it. I remember after getting out of the taxi, running into the Marriot, and into the elevator, I was completely out of breath. I was wheezing, and trying to get myself looking presentable for the con in the elevator, when I heard an Irish accent from the other side of the elevator, "Alexandra Poston?" And sure enough, there's Dave (who's surprisingly not a smiling pencil~) and Don. I was pretty stunned, but it was such an honor to run into them right there! And being the first people to meet at the convention too!

a few hours later I managed to get to the seminar, and it was quite the experience! It was amazing to be asking questions directly, and having a direct conversation with Don right in the room - instead of watching him through a tutorial video. Jeremy got a video of the whole thing, by the way, I can't wait for him to put it up.

There were a lot of highlights of the convention for me, such as meeting Eric Goldberg, or drawing with Vilppu. Damon Bard even offered connecting with my school and teaching a five-day course on maquette making at SCAD all the way in Georgia! Aside from having the seminar with Don, though, I had the opportunity to have dinner at the Grill with Andreas Deja, where I learned so much about the inner workings of the Disney studios, and his experience as an animator there.

It was wonderful meeting those of you from the forum there as well. Especially Jeremy, who offered me his room to stay in during the convention. Owen, I wish I could've met you! I didn't get the chance to (maybe next year?) But Don said some very nice things about you during the seminar.

jeremyhopkins

11-28-2009, 02:20 AM

zanekohler

12-01-2009, 01:00 PM

I'm back in Canada now and I'll try to get the video up as soon as possible. It was wonderful meeting so many fantastic people and it was a pleasure to give opportunities to others that I didn't have during my school years. Thanks to everyone for making it such a special event!

Hey Jeremy, I am bummed I missed meeting you there. I saw you got some clips up on your site! Thanks for filming that and sharing. Also looks as if CartoonBrew has picked up on your clips and linked you as well.

jeremyhopkins

12-01-2009, 08:29 PM

Yeah I missed meeting you and Owen as well. Glad you could make it and hope to see you next time!