Lycette Bros.
from Australia
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Interview: 10 questions
1. Tell me something about your life and the educational background
We grew up in New Zealand where as children we discovered our love of drawing and making things. This eventually translated into both of us studying to become designers which then introduced us to the world of animation.
2. When, how and why started you filming?
We discovered animation through our use of the computer in our design work and study. It seemed like a lot more fun to make animations as our imaginations were allowed to run free from the constraints of clients and deadlines. We enjoy the control that animation provides – the ability to construct different visual worlds.
3.What kind of subjects have your films?
Subject matter varies depending on whether it is made for a client or ourselves. We like working with many styles and messages – we do not like to limit our palette. However we do like organic themes, nature and of course humour.
4. How do you develop your films, do you follow certain principles, styles etc?
We spend time talking and sketching a lot before we commit to an idea. We also go away and think independently letting our subconscious offer ideas to bring back to the table. We like to include subtle details in our work that we may only see or know of – detail is important to us.
5. Tell me something about the technical equipment you use.
We basically work on computers. We do a lot of Flash based vector animation as well as After Effects bitmap animation. We do use an animation board at times or scan in elements to use.
6. What are the chances of new media for the genre film/video in general
and you personally?
(Not sure what the question is – does not make perfect sense). The opportunities that this genre provides us is an outlet for creativity along with a continuous creative challenge as the technology and platforms for distribution change and evolve.
7. How do you finance your films?
Most work is client funded. We have been funded by Film Boards in the past. We also fund our own productions with money generated from commercial design work and teaching work.
8. Do you work individually as a video artist/film maker or do you work in a team?
Depends on the project. As brothers we work generally together on most projects but sometimes we will work independently from each other if we have a personal project we are keen on. On larger projects we will contract in other specialists – 3D modelers, narrators and sound people. For other people working with brothers it can be difficult as our relationship can be complicated. So we tend to prefer to work closely with one another and use a small team at key points of the process.
9. Who or what has a lasting influence on your film/video making?
Many, many things influence us. From nature we derive much inspiration, also television animation, comics, artists and designers. To name a few Hayao Miyazaki, Vaughn Oliver, Hergé, Neville Brody, South Park, John Kricfalusi.
10. What are your future plans or dreams as a film/video maker?
We would like to make a longer film eventually – also publish a book of our work.
Can works of yours viewed online besides on VideoChannel? Where?
http://www.lycettebros.com
http://www.youtube.com/lycettebros