On the Kindness of Strangers …
A random visit to a myspace page turned into an unexpected and rewarding contact for me this week. I spotted a writer, who goes by the moniker Aurelio O’ Brien. After reading a very funny sample chapter from his novel Eve and reviewing the cool critter animations he had there, I decided to send him a quick ‘thumbs up’ email message. To my surprise Aurelio responded and we began a conversation. It turns out he had worked in the animation business before making a move to writing a few years ago. Going beyond the usual casual chat he offered advice and eventually invited me to attend an event at the Van Eaton Galleries in Sherman Oaks to meet some industry people.
I have to really thank Aurelio and his friend Chuck (who also worked in the business) for this invitation. Not only did I get to see more top artists in one room than I ever thought possible -and benefit from sage advice on several topics- but he took the opportunity to introduce me to several directors and well known people in the biz. He told them about my desire to change careers and even followed up by offering to send links to samples of my work. From this flowed some invitations to visit studios working on well known shows.
I have to really thank Aurelio for his incredibly kind and generous act. It was a big thrill to meet him, the people he introduced me to and the many well known artists that attended. He has since followed up with those contacts on my behalf … what can I say? Wow, you are an awesome person! I hope that one day I am in a position to help someone else the same way. Until then you have earned a friend and lifelong fan. Thanks for reaching out …