I'm Aariel Russell, a multi-talented creative with a diverse background in art, animation, & writing with a passion for character and world-building. I've had the privilege of working on projects that showcase my creativity, such as the hit Webtoon series "Love Me To Death," with 35 million views, the action-packed retro platformer game Mekazoo, and the iconic Disney Interactive game Club Penguin. In addition to my artistic pursuits, I've also had the privilege of teaching dance and choreographing routines in my small hometown since 2007. This diverse background has not only honed my animation skills but also deepened my understanding of the interplay between art, storytelling, and audience engagement. If you're looking for someone who can breathe life into your projects, inspire your imagination, and bring a fresh perspective to storytelling, let's connect!

Aariel Russell

I'm Aariel Russell, a multi-talented creative with a diverse background in art, animation, & writing with a passion for character and world-building. I've had the privilege of working on projects that showcase my creativity, such as the hit Webtoon series "Love Me To Death," with 35 million views, the action-packed retro platformer game Mekazoo, and the iconic Disney Interactive game Club Penguin. In addition to my artistic pursuits, I've also had the privilege of teaching dance and choreographing routines in my small hometown since 2007. This diverse background has not only honed my animation skills but also deepened my understanding of the interplay between art, storytelling, and audience engagement. If you're looking for someone who can breathe life into your projects, inspire your imagination, and bring a fresh perspective to storytelling, let's connect!

Next availability:
June 8, 2026

I’m Aariel Russell, a multi-talented creative with a diverse background in art, animation, & writing with a passion for character and world-building.

I’ve had the privilege of working on projects that showcase my creativity, such as the hit Webtoon series “Love Me To Death,” with 35 million views, the action-packed retro platformer game Mekazoo, and the iconic Disney Interactive game Club Penguin.

In addition to my artistic pursuits, I’ve also had the privilege of teaching dance and choreographing routines in my small hometown since 2007. This diverse background has not only honed my animation skills but also deepened my understanding of the interplay between art, storytelling, and audience engagement.

If you’re looking for someone who can breathe life into your projects, inspire your imagination, and bring a fresh perspective to storytelling, let’s connect!

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Language

English
Fluent
Japanese
Beginner

Work Experience

Narrative Artist / Writer at Toonimated LLC
December 1, 2016 - Present
Collaborated to develop dynamic, character-driven narrative for a popular Webtoon series that garnered over 35 million views. Delivered high-quality scripts on tight weekly deadlines, ensuring clear narrative intent and emotional expression for the series that was later published as a graphic novel.
3D Animator / Artist at LUTZY INC
May 1, 2017 - March 1, 2021
Independently created rigs and life-like bipeds character animations. Independently and collaboratively created 2D and 3D art assets & animation for Lutzy app.
3D Animator / Cinematic Director at The Good Mood Creators
November 1, 2012 - December 1, 2016
Spearheaded Mekazoo's creature animation, including modeling, rigging, and animation for unique character gameplay mechanics and design. Created complex animation sequences, blending trees and ensuring fluid motion design and imported and tested in Unity. Displayed personal initiative by continually testing gameplay and giving thorough feedback throughout all stages of development.
Contract 3D Animator at Disney Interactive Media Group
May 1, 2012 - November 1, 2012
Leveraged skills as a 3D animator to deliver high-quality 3D animations for the popular MMO game Club Penguin, including adherence to strict original 2D game animation style guidelines. Assisted in reviewing and refining teammate animations to emphasize clear keyframes and smooth animation while ensuring timely delivery.

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Production Animation at DigiPen Institute of Technology
January 1, 2008 - January 1, 2012

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Gaming, Media & Entertainment