We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jess McKay. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jess below.

Alright, Jess thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

**The Risk of Standing for Animal Rights in Puppetry**

In Los Angeles, I found my calling as a puppeteer and puppet builder. Working at The Jim Henson Company, a name synonymous with puppetry, was more than a job; it was a realization of a dream. However, beneath the surface of this dream, there lay an unsettling truth that would soon challenge my principles and career.

As I honed my craft, I couldn’t help but notice the prevalent use of real feathers in decorating the puppets – an industry norm, yet deeply troubling. The more I learned about the origins of these feathers – the suffering and death of birds – the more my discomfort grew. This practice starkly contrasted with the message of kindness and compassion championed by shows like Sesame Street.

Compelled to act, I approached my boss, Brian Henson, with a plea for change. I proposed alternatives to real feathers, materials that were not only cruelty-free but more durable and sustainable. However, my efforts were met with silence. The company I admired, and my boss, whom I respected, chose to maintain the status quo.

Faced with a moral dilemma, I took a risk that would alter my career path irreversibly. I decided to leave The Jim Henson Company – a decision that was both painful and empowering. It was a risk that meant giving up my dream job, my financial security, and stepping into the unknown. But it was a stand for my unwavering belief in animal rights and ethical artistry.

The aftermath of my departure was a blend of challenges and triumphs. While I faced financial uncertainty and the loss of a professional community, I also experienced a profound sense of integrity and purpose. I became an advocate for ethical puppetry, using my skills to create puppets without harming animals. My story resonated with many, sparking conversations about animal rights in the arts and entertainment industry.

This risk did not lead to an immediate change in industry practices, but it laid the groundwork for a broader dialogue and awareness. It was a testament to the power of standing by one’s convictions, even in the face of personal and professional loss. My journey continues, fueled by the belief that true artistry can and should coexist with compassion and respect for all living beings.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, I’m Jess McKay, a professional puppeteer and puppet builder based in Los Angeles, California. My journey into the world of puppetry began with a blend of passion for performance arts and a deep-seated love for storytelling. From a young age, I was fascinated by the way puppets could bring stories to life, transcending language and culture to touch hearts and minds.

My professional path led me to The Jim Henson Company, a place that many in our field consider the pinnacle of puppetry. Here, I honed my skills, not just in puppeteering, but in the intricate art of puppet building. It was a dream come true, working in an environment brimming with creativity and legacy.

However, my time at the company also unveiled a concerning aspect of the industry – the use of real animal feathers in puppet decorations. This realization was at odds with my personal values, as I believe in and advocate for animal rights and ethical artistry. In pursuit of these values, I made the difficult decision to leave the company, taking a stand against the use of real feathers in puppets.

Post my departure, my focus shifted to creating puppets that are not only visually stunning and emotive but also ethically crafted. My creations are made from a variety of animal-free materials that are sustainable and durable, challenging the traditional norms of puppetry. I specialize in bringing characters to life without compromising on ethical standards, ensuring that every aspect of my work respects animal rights.

What sets me apart in this industry is my commitment to this ethical approach. I solve a unique problem for my clients – offering high-quality puppetry that aligns with their values of compassion and sustainability. I cater to those who seek to tell stories in a way that is not only captivating but also conscientious.

I’m most proud of my ability to merge artistry with advocacy. It’s a testament to the fact that one can remain true to their principles while pursuing their passion. My work is a reflection of my belief that creativity and kindness can coexist, and this is the message I wish to spread through my art.

To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want to convey that my brand stands for more than just puppetry; it stands for a movement towards more humane, responsible art forms. By choosing my services, you’re not just getting a puppeteer; you’re becoming part of a larger narrative of change and innovation in the arts.

I invite you to join me in this journey of ethical artistry, where each creation is not just a performance piece but a statement of compassion and respect for all living beings.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

What truly helped me build my reputation within the puppetry market is a steadfast commitment to two core principles: crafting exceptional puppets and maintaining unwavering integrity in my work.

Firstly, my dedication to creating excellently crafted puppets has been central to my success. I have always strived to ensure that each puppet I create is not just visually appealing, but also embodies a high level of craftsmanship. This involves meticulous attention to detail, innovative design, and ensuring that the puppets are as expressive and emotive as possible. The quality of my work has garnered recognition and respect within the industry, helping me stand out in a competitive market.

Secondly, the foundation of my work is built on integrity. This principle has guided every decision I’ve made, from the materials I use to the projects I choose to be involved in. My commitment to ethical practices, especially in terms of animal rights, has been unwavering. When I left The Jim Henson Company over the use of real feathers in puppets, it was a decision that deeply reflected my values. This action, though challenging, reinforced my reputation as a professional who doesn’t compromise on principles for convenience or profit.

These two aspects – excellence in craftsmanship and a strong ethical foundation – have been instrumental in building my reputation. They have attracted clients and collaborators who not only appreciate the quality of my puppets but also share my values and respect the stance I take on important issues. In a world increasingly conscious of ethical implications, this approach has set me apart and established me as a leader in the field of ethical puppetry.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team effectively and maintaining high morale is something I approach with a philosophy centered on empowerment, respect for creativity, and mutual learning.

One of the key aspects of my leadership style is empowering team members to work independently. I believe that every individual brings a unique set of skills and perspectives to the table. By allowing them the freedom to make their own creative choices, I not only foster a sense of ownership and responsibility in their work but also encourage innovation and fresh ideas.

Supporting their creative choices doesn’t mean I am hands-off. On the contrary, I am always available to offer guidance and support when necessary. It’s about striking the right balance between giving them the space to explore and being there to steer the ship in the right direction when needed.

I also firmly believe that there are multiple ways to solve a problem, and this mindset has been incredibly beneficial in a collaborative environment. When leading a team, I find that I often learn as much from my team members as they learn from me, if not more. This exchange of knowledge and ideas not only enhances our projects but also contributes to a dynamic and enriching work environment.

Identifying and leveraging individual strengths is another cornerstone of my approach. I invest time in understanding what each team member does best and then encourage them to ‘spread their wings’ in those areas. This not only leads to higher quality work but also to greater job satisfaction among team members, as they feel valued and recognized for their unique contributions.

In summary, my advice for managing a team and maintaining high morale is to create a workspace where independence, creativity, mutual respect, and learning are at the forefront. It’s about building an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best, knowing that their ideas are valued and their strengths are utilized to the fullest.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @jessmckaypuppets