Sun Chaser: The Anispiring Journey with Bobby Pontillas

One year ago, the best known for One Small Step, the 2019 Academy Award-nominated short film, and Sun Chaser, recipient of the Animation du Monde Prize at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Bobby Pontillas brought the brilliance of Hollywood animation and the foundations of world-class storytelling to iACADEMY through an exclusive session for Animation students and guests. Through his insights and industry experiences, participants gained valuable knowledge on the craft, creativity, and dedication behind globally recognized animated works.
From creating concept art to contributing to blockbuster animated films such as Zootopia, Moana, Big Hero 6, and Spies in Disguise, Bobby Pontillas transformed his session into a masterclass on animation, creativity, and storytelling. As one of the field’s most sought-after character designers, Pontillas inspired attendees with both the artistry and tenacity required to bring compelling characters and stories to life.
“There’s an old Greek saying that says “Live as though your ancestors are living again through you,” That kind of meant a lot to me as well being an American coming back to the Philippines and thinking about what would make us proud and living that life through them and making an impact on the world. Making you mean something and putting your dent in the universe,” Bobby Pontillas shared through an interview with iACADEMY.
This talk reinforces iACADEMY’s commitment to providing students with direct access to industry leaders and professionals. Through workshops, seminars, and talks that offer valuable real-world insights, complemented by industry-standard facilities and equipment, students gain practical knowledge and exposure that bridge the gap between the classroom and the professional world. By fostering these learning opportunities, iACADEMY continues to empower aspiring artists with the skills, experience, and confidence needed to thrive in their future careers.