Mentee Update: Jason Raymond

Titmouse Foundation wanted to take a moment to congratulate Jason Raymond (2022 Future Directors Program) on the successful funding of the MMANWU: Animated Short Film Kickstarter. Jason is one of the storyboard artists and he shared a bit about his experience on this project with us.

Here is an excerpt from the Kickstarter:

“The film follows Ogechi, a Nigerian-American teenager, as she travels back to Nigeria after the death of her grandfather. Riddled with grief, Ogechi’s mourning is interrupted when she’s confronted with an aspect of her culture she does not understand, forcing her to contend with her identity as both Nigerian and American. Centered around Igbo-Nigerian culture and traditions, Mmanwu mixes magical realism and horror to explore themes of grief, spirituality and cross-cultural understanding.”

Character sketches of Ogechi, by Jason Raymond

What was your experience like working on this production?

I had such a wonderful experience on this project. As a first generation artist with roots in Ghana, I couldn’t believe that my first gig allowed me to be part of a piece that so forwardly celebrates West African culture. The characters and the world of “Mmanwu” really gave me the chance to bring my identity to the piece, while crafting a story I think will be near and dear to the hearts on many. 

Did you face any struggles on the job?

I was so afraid of messing up. I couldn’t really wrap my head around someone wanting to pay me for my art. My anxiety around losing the job made me less ambitious with my creative choices, I was playing it safe. Workshopping with my director and the team really helped me break out of my shell. I came to understand that a huge part of storyboarding is experimenting! We try and fail to make the best story we can. It made me more comfortable with making looser/"uglier" drawings that really gave me the chance to explore Mmanwu

What is something you love about this story?

A lot of first generation kids are thrown between new American culture and the history they've come from. This is the crossroads our main character Ogechi finds herself at. A new world that is scary but so familiar. I really related to her finding her place in the legacy of her people. The best thing about West Africa is the power and resilience of its community. I can't wait for the world to see our film!

Congrats again to the team and we can’t wait to see the film!