We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alfonso Petersen O’Farrill. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alfonso below.

Alfonso, thanks for taking the time to share your stories 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.

I always dreamed of working in a prestigious animation studio. While still in Mexico, I applied for the Fulbright Scholarship, designed for individuals outside the US to pursue a master’s degree in an American university of their choice. A few months into the application process, I secured a six-month internship at Buck Design, a top-tier animation studio known for innovation.

During the internship, I received news of being awarded the scholarship. This presented a dilemma: whether to pursue the scholarship or not. While I value education, my primary goal was finding a job I loved, which I had already achieved at Buck Design. Additionally, the learning experience from colleagues and friends surpassed what I believed I could gain from a master’s program.

However, the risk loomed as my permanent position wasn’t secure during the internship. Securing a permanent role depended not only on my performance but also on factors like studio workload and industry economic conditions.

Despite turning down a scholarship that offered a substantial amount for my studies, a decision that I knew might not come my way again, I ultimately received a permanent position at the studio. This choice proved beneficial, as my career has since developed rapidly.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am a Senior 3D Artist born in Guadalajara, Mexico, currently residing in Los Angeles and employed full-time at Buck Design.

From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by animation and the captivating worlds it can bring to life through storytelling. During my childhood, I was obsessed with crafting my own narratives and sketching characters. As a teenager, I discovered the possibility of studying and making a career as an animator. I began taking small courses in 3D modeling, the process of digitally sculpting characters as if they were clay, which could then be used as puppets in short films or movies. Some of my favorite 3D films at the time included The Incredibles, Finding Nemo, Tangled, and Shrek. I eagerly anticipated becoming part of a studio capable of creating such remarkable works.

I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Animation at Tecnologico de Monterrey Guadalajara, where I acquired the foundational knowledge for various processes essential to 3D animation, in addition to 3D modeling. My career commenced at Exodo Animation Studio, where I continued to learn and refine my skills.

Eventually, I secured an internship at Buck Design, an experience both incredible and challenging. With guidance from mentors and participation in extracurricular courses, I expanded my skill set to include Look and Development, Lighting, and Compositing—integral components of the 3D animation process. Over time, I earned greater responsibilities on projects and was recently promoted to Senior 3D Artist this year. Although the role entails additional responsibilities, I really love the sense of being a crucial contributor to projects that will be viewed and enjoyed by thousands, if not millions, of people. Throughout this position, I’ve collaborated on projects for clients such as Amazon, Facebook, Google, League of Legends, Apple, and McDonald’s.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the most surprising realizations for me has been understanding how much I can learn from those around me. After the COVID period, we all got accustomed to working from home, relying on our computers, and figuring things out independently. Since returning to the office and having the chance to sit alongside other skilled artists with diverse expertise, it’s incredibly enriching to ask them questions about their areas of expertise. We often have this inclination to project independence and a fear of a burdening others. But in reality, people are generally willing and very happy to share their knowledge. Being close to smart talented people is a privilege, as it greatly enriches and develops your own skills. I’ve come to realize the importance of going for it and seeking advice. I have never regretted.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most satisfying moment for me is when I complete a project and can view it as if I’m part of the audience, just enjoying the look and storytelling. Animation is quite a complex process, and it often looks a bit rough in the first few weeks of development, which can be a bit concerning. But that’s just part of the deal. Gradually, the project starts taking shape.

Throughout the process, characters and environments improve, any issues get fixed, animation and movement become polished, camera angles improve, editing paces the story perfectly, and the final color enriches the scenes. I love witnessing all these different elements come together because each one is crucial and requires a high level of talent to create. Only when everything aligns does the magic happen, and the characters truly come to life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artstation.com/alfonsopetersen
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petersen_3d/
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/ponchopetersen/

Image Credits
Yan Lian Hong Soonsang