I have been participating in the exchanges through redditgifts for a while now. I usually expect something fun that relates to my hobbies or interests. But this year my Secret Santa took the extra step and found the perfect gift that satisfies both want AND need!

Currently I am studying 3D computer animation and 3D computer art. I will be spending the next 2 year working on a 2-3 minute short film in order to graduate. The process is long and challenging because I will be writing a script, story boarding and color scripts for every shot all for months before I even open up the 3D software. This is very intimidating and stressful for me but I am also excited for the challenge.

With this in mind, when I opened up the package I was floored. I knew what it was immediately before reading the cover. My Secret Santa got me "The Art of Pixar" with hundred of pages in beautiful color. The book is filled with page after page of the concept art and color scripts from the last 25 years of Pixar films! If I was ever starting to feel uninspired this gift put a stop to that!

Thanks to my Secret Santa I have reference and inspiration at my fingertips. I even had a little epiphany when I opened the book and sifted through the pages. I realized when I was touching the book that it was tangible! My whole world is digital. It is easy to get lost in the screens I stare at all day. Being able to touch art outside the pixel world is a wonderful feeling. I want to thank my Secret Santa for giving me a gift I can touch and smell but still something related to the things I am passionate about. My Secret Santa found a gift to satisfy my love of 3D movies and to help me in the next few years.

I cannot thank them enough!

Sincerely,

Senshisoldier