We had the good fortune of connecting with Jesseter Wang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jesseter, what matters most to you?
As an animator, I wrestle with this question every single day: What truly fuels my passion, and which path should I pursue? Initially, I firmly believed that constant self-improvement was the key to success. I spent countless hours refining my craft, always pushing myself to learn and grow. But this relentless drive often left me feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, as if my efforts were never quite enough, and the journey stretched endlessly before me.

Over the past three years, my interactions with fellow animators and artists from different backgrounds have gradually reshaped my perspective. I’ve come to realize that the pressure I placed on myself only served to stifle my growth. It’s hard to thrive creatively when you’re constantly weighed down by feelings of inadequacy and self-criticism. Instead of that, I’ve learned to embrace a gentler approach, one that allows for mistakes and acknowledges the importance of self-care in the creative process.

Reflecting on my journey, I’ve realized I often overlooked my own achievements. Celebrating your progress is crucial, it serves as a source of self-encouragement and it can always light up your passion for creating. Patience also becomes essential as I wait for personal growth, understanding that every move I make is for myself. This mindset reignites my passion for creation, also fueling my belief in becoming a better animator in the future.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently employed at BUCK Design, an advertising creative studio, where I work full-time as a 3D designer & animator. I transitioned from the architecture industry and embarked on my journey as a 3D animator three years ago. During my early days, BUCK was one of the studios I admired the most. Unlike traditional advertising studios, BUCK consistently produces high-quality work, pushing boundaries in style and creativity. Their keen understanding of design trends and ability to create cutting-edge content has been a significant source of inspiration for me. It has significantly influenced my growth as a creative generalist. After years of honing my skills, I landed and began my first full-time job at BUCK. Working here reflects my dedication and effort over the years and marks the formal beginning of my career in this industry. During these past two years, working alongside these fantastic colleagues has been instrumental in my growth. Not only have I gained significant inspiration about creating things, but it has also prompted me to contemplate my evolution as an independent artist and consider my next steps in my career journey.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would recommend Exchange Place in Jersey City. There’s a long riverside walkway to enjoy a panoramic view of Manhattan. It’s located downtown Jersey City, serving as a transportation hub without being too noisy. Every weekend, after finishing a week of work, I choose to come here early in the morning to buy a cup of coffee and sit by the river, enjoying the tranquility and briefly disconnecting from work. It’s an excellent place to calm my mind and experience vibrant city life. I recommend this place to my friends who want to find a spot to relax from the chaotic life.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would shout out and am profoundly thankful for the friends who supported me as I navigated the decision to follow my passion for animation alongside my career as an architect. Their unwavering support came at a time when I felt lost and fearful about embarking on a new journey. Despite the challenges of starting afresh, their encouragement and understanding were pivotal in my decision to pursue artistry. Beginning a new means starting from scratch, but their support and trust bolstered my determination. Their motivation and belief in me often made me realize that I could achieve things I once never imagined.

Website: https://jesseterw.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesseterw/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesseterwang/

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