About:
Robbie C. Ward is a self-taught illustrator, animator, and musician from the mountains of Colorado. In 2010 he co-founded the electronic rock group DEDSA in Nashville, where he worked as keyboardist and art director, garnering attention from around the world for his meticulously hand drawn music videos. A near fatal illness ended his career as a touring musician, but allowed him to focus on his love for illustration, filmmaking, and composition. Ward’s handmade creations draw on a wide array of influences – from the classic cartoons and picture books of his childhood, to Japanese monster movies, European arthouse, and the ecstatic mysticism of William Blake. His debut short film “Animal Math” recently premiered at Fantastic Fest 2025 after 7 years of painstaking work.
Presentation:
Friday, May 8th: Art, Alchemy, and Spiritual Rebellion in the Modern Age
“In this lecture I will explain the basics of my animation process, how the production of my film sustained me through years of chronic illness, my philosophy on the magical aspect of creative work, and why non-commercial motives and unrestricted artistic expression are essential to maintaining our humanity in a world that is increasingly shaped by empty distractions and corporate interests.”
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