ACME is proud to feature Kevin Messer in our Hall of Fame.  Kevin graduated from San Jose State, participated in the ACME Animation program and now currently works at Punch Entertainment as a game artist creating original games for cell phones.   

Kevin is glad he chose to attend San Jose State because of how it contributed to his development as an artist…

“I think San Jose State's Illustration/Animation program is simply the best value any artist can find.  The teachers are talented, dedicated, and inspiring.  You can tell that they work hard to maintain the strong program they've established and are always looking for ways to give their students the edge in the increasingly competitive job market.  Before taking John Clapp's Intro to Illustration class, I was headed towards graphic design.  His class, along with the classes that followed - especially those involving ACME - reignited my dream to work in videogames, and provided the work ethic and versatility needed to succeed.”

 While Kevin never set out to be an animator, he found that learning animation was a very valuable contribution to his artistic education…

“I never wanted to do animation.  ‘Too much repetitive drawing!’  I would think to myself before actually trying it.  Since it was required at SJSU though, I had little choice.  Animation is one of the best ways to hone your drawing abilities and focus on the things that bring a drawing to life.  I not only enjoyed the classes, but they provided essential abilities for working at my current job.”

ACME pro’s were helpful and provided insightful feedback during his time at San Jose…

“Every pro was helpful in some way, and it was always nice to get a fresh perspective.  If I had to pick one though, it would have to be John Ramirez.  Perhaps he sticks out simply because he was almost always there, but he had intelligent, helpful insight that will always stay with me.”

Kevin offer’s advice to current ACME artists…

“If you're an artist, you should at least try to animate.  It will only help, and you may end up loving it.  If you're already trying it, great!  Always get feedback from a variety of people - from trusted artists to your best friend who couldn't draw a circle to save his life.  In the real world your audience won't be artists.”