Introduction
We are thrilled to share inspiring stories from our students, proving that passion and hard work can transform lives. Today, we’ll explore Alice Agabekova’s journey, whose passion for animation led her from an unexpected encounter at a 2019 animation conference to studying at the prestigious Gobelins School of Animation. Her story is filled with challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons for anyone aspiring to break into the world of animation.
Table of Contents
- Alice’s Background Before Animation School
- The Spark: Discovering Animation
- Overcoming Challenges and Setting Goals
- Learning Paths: School vs. Self-Study
- Breakthroughs and Memorable Moments
- Current Projects and Professional Goals
- Advice for Aspiring Animators
Alice’s Background Before Animation School
After leaving music school, Alice began exploring drawing. Her parents supported her creative endeavors, enrolling her in various schools, but traditional art theory and academic drawing didn’t resonate with her. Everything changed in 2019 when she attended an animation conference, where the energy and passion of attendees inspired her to pursue animation.
Alice recalls how the exposure to different creative environments nurtured her curiosity. Though the path wasn’t linear, the collective experience gave her confidence to keep exploring.
The Spark: Discovering Animation
At the 2019 animation conference, Alice learned about Edward Kurchevsky’s 2D animation course. Despite having no prior animation experience, this course set her on a clear path to join the animation industry. Alice balanced high school with animation courses, becoming the youngest student in her group. To prepare for Gobelins, she switched to homeschooling and dedicated two years to refining her portfolio.
This was a transformative period, filled with late nights, trial and error, and deep immersion into the principles of animation. Alice emphasizes that while the initial steps felt overwhelming, each completed project fueled her passion further.
Overcoming Challenges and Setting Goals
Alice faced burnout while balancing school and animation studies. However, with the guidance of her mentor, Edward Kurchevsky, she learned the importance of setting clear goals. Her ultimate aim became entering Gobelins, and she worked tirelessly toward it. Though she wasn’t accepted immediately, she was offered a preparatory year and now thrives in her first year of the bachelor’s program.
Reflecting on this journey, Alice mentions the importance of resilience. Rejections, she says, aren’t failures but opportunities to improve. The preparatory year helped her grow both technically and creatively, enabling her to excel when she finally began her studies.
Learning Paths: School vs. Self-Study
Alice explored various learning methods, from formal courses to individual study. At Animation Club School, she appreciated the structured approach of lectures followed by assignments, while other schools emphasized hands-on practice. She found that patience and hard work were crucial, regardless of the learning path.
She highlights the significance of striking a balance: structured mentorship accelerates progress, while self-study helps develop independence. Both approaches, she believes, are essential to becoming a well-rounded animator.
Courses at Animation Club School
Alice’s primary course at Animation Club School was Edward Kurchevsky’s 2D animation program. This foundational training not only improved her skills but also clarified her goals. Feedback from her mentor played a vital role in her growth.
Kurchevsky’s emphasis on fundamentals helped Alice build a strong technical base. She fondly remembers her first major animation project, which gave her a sense of accomplishment and reaffirmed her choice to pursue animation professionally.
Breakthroughs and Memorable Moments
One of Alice’s most significant breakthroughs came when she joined her father, a creative producer in the animation industry, on professional projects. She worked as a character and background designer, which deepened her understanding of the craft. Among her favorite memories was character animation during her courses, which inspired her to push her skills further.
Her involvement in real-world projects gave her a unique perspective on collaboration and deadlines. These experiences, she says, prepared her for the rigorous demands of Gobelins.
Current Projects and Professional Goals
Now in her first year at Gobelins, Alice focuses on traditional animation, working entirely on paper to hone precision and control. She also works on personal projects and is surrounded by passionate peers and Hollywood-trained teachers, which keeps her motivated.
Alice’s current goals include mastering the subtleties of character movement and storytelling. She dreams of contributing to feature films that leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
In addition to her studies, she enjoys experimenting with styles and techniques, broadening her artistic horizon.
Advice for Aspiring Animators
Alice’s advice to aspiring animators is clear:
- Set clear goals: Understand where you want to go and make a plan.
- Embrace traditional techniques: Drawing on paper builds precision and enhances digital skills.
- Stay passionate: Hard work and dedication matter more than raw talent.
She also recommends seeking feedback from mentors and peers, as external perspectives often reveal areas for growth. Alice believes that cultivating a mindset of continuous learning is key to success.
Alice Agabekova’s journey from discovering animation to studying at Gobelins is a testament to the power of persistence and mentorship. Her story shows that with clear goals and a love for the craft, anyone can achieve their dreams in animation.
If you dream, like Alice, of developing your skills in animation and creating a portfolio to apply to leading schools worldwide, join the Animation Club School courses! Start with the fundamentals of animation and take the first step toward achieving your goals.
