Right after finishing my Internship at FOX6 and Art School, I had a few things in mind that I was afraid of. First, that the "Real World" is a dangerous playground. Second, that I probably won't get my dream job right away and finally… monkeys with laser beams.

Three months after graduation, I used my time efficiently by studying and researching endlessly until my mother finally said, "Francis, stop watching cartoons!" Of course I had to correct her and say that they were animated programs. She was right; I had to stop gathering research materials. I was ready to venture out far, far away from San Diego to this dangerous Real World, known as "Los Angeles".

I packed my portfolio, sketchbooks, pencils, computers and a couple bananas in case the monkeys tried to steal my equipment. They are so easily distracted by potassium.

My first employer was Imajimation Studios located in the west side of the Real World. I walked in and my boss said, "We're not buying anything, thanks." I had to remind him that I was the new guy. He immediately branded "PA" on my forehead in Trajan Pro font. Absurd! It was my first time facing challenging Real World tasks which were overwhelming indeed; but, I didn't let that obstacle block my path. With the help of my awesome imagination, Jesus, and black magic, I discovered that my abilities were not restricted to 2D. I evolved, leveled up, and learned 3D art in little time. I was able to create a method for a better workflow in the studio as well. We produced a short animated feature called "BLOKHEDZ" during the Gatorade rebrand when the missionG website came out.

 

While I enjoyed 3D art very much, deep inside I wanted to illustrate and draw my imagination out loud. Next, I journeyed to the heart of Los Angeles. It was not easy facing the traffic but I made it and soon got to work with two producers who needed my abilities. So I joined their party. They gave birth to an idea and I faced the challenge of creating a face for their baby. After hard work and sleepless nights, "The Adventures of Footenbarn" came to life. This 41-page full color children's book has lots of exciting and fun visuals that even former President Bush and Rob Schneider couldn't resist.

 

Times were tough when the recession blanketed the land. I thought about returning to San Diego. Instead, I decided to stay put. During the fall of 2009, I set foot in the most dangerous part of the Real World where the sidewalks are covered with dust, glitter, and homeless people dressed up as super heroes... "Hollywood". There I established a creative agency called Pixel Ground and applied my newfound skills. I grew six more arms, wore different hats, and became an octopus. I faced many different clients and was able to breathe life into their ideas. Not only that, I gained leadership and administrative experiences. I was conditioned to practice graphic design, illustration, animation, web design, branding, packaging, marketing, and accounting on a daily basis.

 

So far the real world is not as bad as I thought it would be. I still haven't used my bananas in the freezer - but maybe one day. Until then…