Tell us about yourself.
I’m Adisa Kareem, a 2020 SCAD graduate with a B.F.A. in illustration. I’m from Hartford, Conn., but I’m based in Atlanta. I’m open to relocating for animation work.
My work consists mainly of layout design and background painting. I create environments with the intention of displaying a setting using my knowledge of composition, colors and narrative themes.
In your opinion, how do others view your work? How do you view your work?
In my opinion, I feel that other people see my work with pure enjoyment. I tend to post what I create on social media. Those that see what I do also tend to love it. They often send me compliments and words of encouragement. I view my own work as both an outlet for my own expression. It’s also a means to catch the attention of any art director in hopes of a potential animation job.
What do you think is the importance of your work?
The importance of my work is more personal than external. I haven’t found a deep meaning to explore in my work just yet. I’ve simply enjoyed illustration for as long as I can remember. I love being able to take my passion into the professional field. I don’t really know when to stop.
When do you know a background is done? Is there such a thing as going overboard?
I mainly look for feedback from friends and family to help determine when a piece is done.
It’s very easy to overwork a background. Sometimes I can end up putting too many elements in a piece, which can create a lot of visual noise that can confuse the viewer.
What/who is your inspiration?
Most of my inspirations come from other animations that I enjoy both in childhood and adulthood. As a kid, shows like “Samurai Jack” inspired me to draw backgrounds. More modern properties like “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” or HBO’s “Primal” often give me ideas of styles and colors to adapt to my own approach.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I don’t exactly know where I’d be location-wise. My goal is to continue to work my way up to art directing for a major studio.
Any challenges (any and all challenges) in your field?
The biggest challenge I face now is making sure my work continues to improve. While navigating a career during a pandemic, of course. People can follow me on Twitter, my Instagram @disa.reem and LinkedIn.
