A Day in the Life

Ken Duncan shows us the ropes at Duncan Studios.

This month, we get to spend some time with the amazing Ken Duncan, chief creative officer of Duncan Studio, one of the top independent 2D and CG animation studios in Hollywood. Duncan and his team have animated some of the most influential characters in film and TV. His Pasadena-based shop recently animated the acclaimed 2D sequences in Disney’s Mary Poppins Returns and won two Annie Awards. Before starting his studio, Ken was behind some of the most iconic characters of the Disney Renaissance and also worked on major box office films with leading production companies like WB, Universal and Illumination.

11. Ken comes into work with the first of his seven green teas for the day.

22. Ken leads a morning production meeting for Duncan Originals, our new in-house development and production division — developing some exciting sci-fi and fantasy adventures!

33. Ken checks out supervisor Chris Sauve’s incredible talent at drawing gophers. Chris is a supervisor who has been with the studio for 12 years and is a pro at character animation.

44. Animator Mike Ryan tries to explain the brilliance of his animation for a commercial spot. We work with clients like Universal and Disney to bring their vision to life.

55. Wrapping up on a show, and celebrating with the crew: Ken Duncan, Mark Handler, Shawn Eddie, Ray Morales, Nicolas DeLaTorre, Robert Holder, Kristen Kobayashi, Mike Ryan, Chris Sauve, Jason Stovall and Brock Stearn. Over the past couple years, this team along with dozens of others, has worked alongside Rob Marshall, Tom Hanks, Katherine Bigelow and Brad Bird on projects at Duncan Studio.

66. A review with Ink & Paint supervisor, the wonderful Sarah-Jane King.

77. Ken, Chris, Mike, Ray and Alex von Have eviewing work with remote artist Scott Wright. Our collaborators come from all over the world, bringing new perspectives to our work in 2D hand-drawn and CG animation.

88. Reviewing CG test with VFX Supervisor Jason Stovall. Jason spearheaded the digital process for the brilliant work on Mary Poppins Returns.

99. Towards the end of day, Ken finally has the time to review emails for the day. ◆