Levi Ames came to VanArts from the USA starting in 2006, and completed both our 2D and 3D Animation diploma programs, finally graduating in 2008. 

We have recently received news that Levi has been hired by Oktober Animation in Auckland, New Zealand, to work as an animator on the Nickelodeon/Dreamworks TV series The Penguins of Madagascar. 

Levi shares with us, "Ever since I was 6 years old I had carved in stone that I was going to work in the animation industry. No matter what direction the industry was going in, I knew I wanted to learn the craft of hand-drawn 2D animation first, and then pursue 3D animation. VanArts was able to deliver beyond my hopes and dreams on both parts. Thanks to the extraordinarily talented instructors there, my understanding and skill for animation blossomed before my very eyes. In our first week, my first year instructor told us to keep our handouts as the year progressed, so we wouldn't forget the basic principles as our careers moved forward. I took that notion to heart, and to this day I still have all of my VanArts handouts organized into an animation bible, always referring back to it.

VanArts taught me to work hard and pursue my dreams, and I thank them for all they have provided for me. It truly has been a fantastic experience."

Levi's Blog: leviames.blogspot.com