Ciko Khethelo Ndlovu
When Palesa Ndlovu (22) switched her career goal from architecture to the arts, her parents were worried. With high graduate unemployment, how would study for an animation degree, rather than pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) qualifications guarantee a job?
While the Humanities accounted for the greatest share of graduations between 2010 and 2016, research from the University of the North-West shows that choice of qualifications and majors that are aligned to the needs of the market are stronger predictors of employment.
Although animation is considered a niche career in the creative arts, it is still a lucrative vocation and a key player in the entertainment and advertising industries. Was this passion for animation something you discovered before or after you matriculated?
It was a newfound passion. Originally, I wanted to pursue Architecture since I had done Engineering Graphic Design (EGD) at school, but Maths was not working in my favour. Although I did like the idea of Architecture, I’m glad that didn’t work out since it lacked that ‘fantasy’ aspect which I have discovered that I really enjoy and need in my life.
Many South African parents are hesitant for their children to choose a creative career. What was your parent’s initial reaction when you switched from Architecture to Animation?
My mother was surprisingly very supportive while my father was sceptical mainly concerned about …employability. They are usually the type of parents who believe that pursuing STEM careers is the only way to success. However, I was able to convince my father how much I enjoy this and the opportunities available in the career.
How were you able to convince your father to pursue a career in the Arts?
I convinced him by showing him the many doors available within the Animation industry. We are taught about things like visual effects, scriptwriting, 2D and 3D modelling and even skills that allow us to venture in other industries like advertising and film. I also told him that not everyone is able to pursue a career in STEM especially if their passion and skills don’t lie there . I was very persistent to convince him how passionate I am about this.
The SA animation industry has exploded with interest from corporations like Netflix and Disney+, particularly after Cape Town based Triggerfish animation company won an Oscar for best animated short film in 2018. Why wasn’t he convinced originally?
(My father) felt that Art careers do not provide a stable income or living. He highlighted the aspect of how looking at the current needs of South Africa, the country lacks STEM professionals. If I were to go into those fields, the chances of me being employed would be higher. He also believed that Art industries only seek people who are exceptionally talented which would put me at risk, since finding people like that is rare.
“I also told him (my father) that not everyone is able to pursue a career in STEM especially if their passion and skills don’t lie there . I was very persistent to convince him how passionate I am about this.”
There is a stereotype that many creative arts students end up unemployed compared to other careers, what is your take on this? How have you gone about making yourself employable?
I don’t feel that it is a stereotype since it is somewhat true. South Africa (has a) high unemployment rate that effects all industries. I do want to point out the myth that the skills we (creatives) acquire are things that anyone could (do). How I make myself employable is by compiling an impressive portfolio and make sure it is adaptable for both local and international markets.
How does it make you feel knowing that huge international corporations are opening opportunities for young African animators?
It’s really motivating because it shows how the country is opening their minds to the career and understanding how Animation is not just for children but is essential for the creative industry.
Animation is usually not the first career mentioned when we speak about the Creative Arts. What was so intriguing about it that make you pursue it as a career field?
What intrigued me about the career was the process of making art through drawing and bringing it to life using high tech programs. The story telling aspect of it is also what sealed the deal.
What skill is an essential in Animation that many might not be aware of?
Critical analysis, so far in the course we are taught to look at many things on television differently, like when we look at adverts, we should focus on things like why they used certain colours and the effect it has on the overall meaning.
What is the most challenging part of the course that you are pursuing?
Seeing other people do much better than you. Although in the classroom everyone is willing to help each other, sometimes you can get a bit insecure when you see someone else have better drawing skills or better rendering than you, but it is important to remember that Animation is a collaborative effort where people with different strengths and weaknesses work together to create a piece of art.
What would be your advice to students looking to pursue a career in the Arts?
…go for it, there are many solid opportunities in the Art industries, and I believe that one should chase their passions. My other advice would be to practice a lot since you will learn new skills that need time and effort to master.
The Nelson Mandela University Bachelor of Media and Communication specialisation in Film includes an introduction to the tools, software and techniques of animation.