I met Jason recently at an art fair in downtown Toronto. I was staffing a tent promoting the benefits of the arts, design, and media programs at Centennial’s Centre for Creative Communications. My immediate impression was of an energetic, ambitious and very talented artist. Based on this brief encounter, I asked Jason to be a presenter for the Creative Fusion lecture series which I co-ordinate at the Centre. The intent of this series is to provide Centennial’s visual arts students with an accurate insight into the work-a-day world of visual professionals. The basic idea is to motivate, encourage, challenge, and stimulate.

Jason did all these things and more! His presentation was an electric mix of information, entertainment and inspiration. Over a far too short hour, Jason passionately described his career path starting from his early experiences as a web designer, through the ever changing world of digital technologies, to his current role as an F/X wizard. Along the way he tempted us with compelling examples of his own work, handed out advice on creative strategies and software, and offered practical tips on how to approach a professional career. Notable among the points he stressed was the need for insatiable curiosity, self-confidence, and a never-ending flow of positive thinking. The visual arts is one area in which you can still define your own career path. All it takes is desire and hard work.

Afterwords, my afternoon class was all a-buzz about Jason’s presentation. He definitely lit a fire in their eyes as to their own potential.

I definitely plan to have Jason present again. That is, if he can find the time in his own meteoric career.

David McClyment
Artist / Instructor, Professional Practices