Few stories in the vibrant world of animation are as inspiring as those of Alex Ferreira Simões, the creative force behind Animation Flow. His journey from a 3D generalist in São Paulo to animating iconic characters for League of Legends is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in the creative industry.
The Spark of Inspiration
Alex’s love for animation was kindled in the colorful streets of São Paulo, where animated characters seemed to leap off the screen and into his imagination. However, it wasn’t until he worked on his first animation project that the true magic revealed itself. This pivotal moment set him on a path that would lead him through the hallowed halls of DreamWorks Animation and eventually to Riot Games.
Evolving Artistry
As Alex honed his craft, his focus shifted from the technical intricacies to the heart of animation – character performance and storytelling. This evolution proved crucial when he faced one of his most challenging projects, “The Bad Guys” at DreamWorks. The film demanded a delicate balance between exaggerated action and grounded humor, pushing Alex to new creative heights.
The Wacom Advantage
Throughout his career, Alex has relied on Wacom products to bridge the gap between creativity and technical demands. These tools have been instrumental in allowing him to focus on the creative aspects of his work, bringing characters to life with precision and flair.
Alex recently took Wacom Movink out for a spin using Maya.
“I think the main things that are better using the Movink with Maya was to have a display tablet to easily toggle between drawing over/manipulating the character with the pen, without any struggle … I’m in love with the device! ”
Mentorship and Community
Alex’s journey is not just about personal growth; it’s about giving back to the animation community. Through Animation Flow, he provides mentorship and resources to both aspiring and established animators, fostering a new generation of creative talent.
The Future of Animation
As the industry evolves with new technologies like real-time engines and AI, Alex remains at the forefront, excited about the possibilities these advancements bring to storytelling and character creation.
Advice for Aspiring Animators
His advice is clear for those looking to follow in his footsteps: stay curious, keep creating, and don’t fear failure. The animation industry may be competitive, but opportunities will arise with daily improvement and a willingness to network.
Alex Ferreira Simões’ story is about continuous learning, adaptation, and passion. From the streets of São Paulo to the digital realms of League of Legends, his journey exemplifies the exciting possibilities that await those who dare to bring their imagination to life, one frame at a time.
About the artist
Alex Ferreira Simões is an animator at Riot Games, and is a mentor at and the founder of Animation Flow. Follow more of his work on social media on Instagram or X (Twitter), and check out Animation Flow’s website for more about their offerings, including lectures on 3D animation through their Patreon as well as 1 on 1 coaching/mentorship for aspiring animators.
