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Shaun Clark

Profession
Course Leader, MA Character Animation
College
Central Saint Martins
Person Type
Teacher
Shaun  Clark

Biography

I hold the position of Course Leader for MA Character Animation at Central Saint Martins and work as an independent filmmaker, specializing in animation. My professional journey commenced as a freelance animator in London, where I had the privilege of collaborating with commercial studios such as Partizan, Zig Zag Productions, Tandem Films, and Glasshead.

One of the significant milestones in my career was the collaboration with Finnish director Mariut Rimminen at Tricky Films in 2005. Together, we created a compelling 30-minute film titled "Learned by Heart." This project comprised five episodes that delved into the untold stories, misunderstandings, and mysteries experienced by a child during Finland's post-war era. "Learned by Heart" garnered critical acclaim and secured the Best Animation award at the esteemed Tampere Film Festival in 2007.

Throughout my professional journey, I have been involved in creating animated content for diverse projects. Notably, I have animated several broadcast films for BBC2 and Discovery Times, including my work on the BAFTA-nominated TV series "Just So Darwin." Moreover, I have made significant contributions to theatrical productions by providing captivating, animated content for renowned shows like "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," directed by Sam Mendes, which received an Olivier Award. Other notable productions include "Phantom of the Opera" at the Royal Albert Hall, "Alice in Wonderland" at the Royal Opera House, and "Ghost: The Musical" in the UK, America, and South Korea. In 2014, I had the opportunity to be involved in the concert residency "Before the Dawn" by English singer-songwriter Kate Bush, held at the Hammersmith Apollo in London.

Beyond my passion for animation, I am also deeply involved in the world of filmmaking. From 2005 to 2018, I directed several films as part of the esteemed collective Mew Lab. These films received prestigious accolades, including the Georges Méliès prize, a British Animation Award, and a Jury Prize at Clermont Ferrand. They have been broadcasted in America and Asia, captivating audiences at numerous international festivals. In 2018, I established my own production company, Flicker Mill, where I currently serve as a director, dedicated to creating independent films. I have also had the privilege of showcasing retrospectives of my work in South Korea and Greece.

My academic work has always been inspired by my creative process and I have taught at esteemed institutions such as Sheffield Hallam, Middlesex University, Anglia Ruskin, and the London College of Communication as a tutor and visiting lecturer. Furthermore, I have served as an external examiner for the National Film and Television School and have been a tutor with the BFI Film Academy since 2017. This blend of academic and industry experience has greatly influenced and shaped my expertise in character animation and filmmaking.