click the link, wordwar in my blog T!

Oh yeah, I'm a copycat...loud and proud than nothing at all wannabes!

Word Up (part I)

but you have to click the link below to read the whole chaos

Word up is the code. No matter how you say something as long as it has impact to other people’s existence, it makes them react. Whether violently, emotionally or psychologically, it tortures them deep down inside when someone’s get better against them. They want the top spot on their own and in fact, they can’t take it when they are dropped from the race. Yeah right, start the race when you have real aces on your hands. And don’t dare when you only got the fake ones. I would rather call it fake because most self-craving homophobic fools can’t take the biting reality when they still remain unseen, unrecognized or un-praised even if they already crossed the lines. The lines between friends and traitors, transparency and deception, dreams and nightmares, wits and stupidity. Isn’t it true that my premonition and suspicion came close to my theory that it was you who blab and flab your lips with insecure-branded lipstick a year ago that I was expressing negative comments to somebody or someone you worshipped as your ultimate art-pal. Why? It simply implied that he tickled your attention-craving ego and appreciated your eye-straining “CRAPSmanship” the way me or anybody else didn’t ever do. Of course, I did expressed my compliments and praise but it was not enough because no matter how you gulp Gatorade, swallow Enervon C or lift tons of barrels in the gym, your artistic stroke doesn’t alter your still “hiding-behind-photoshop-manipulated-works”. And you even have the guts to call my artworks Funnycomickish? Hehe, you amuse me so much with your gutter-like squatter responses and so so plain terminologies. Do you know other terms aside from “gay”, “hypocrite” or “stupid”? Yack, it makes me puke and vomit big time every time I read you faulty paragraphs that resembles your “pang-Grade-six-section-12-school-project-masterpieces”. You ought to print “submitted by: Treyvor, the unknown, the forgotten and passang-awa artist” in front of your project’s folder.So the most-fitted “word up” to an ignoramus can’t-take-it, can’t-crack-it-up loose-circuit wannabe artist who deep down inside still wants to attached his pedigree-fed bloated ego to a slowly-solidifying friendship like ours is to stuck (I repeat with eardrum-piercing holler) in your “something fishy, hehe” quote you dearly advocate. After all, your favorite quote fits your photoshop-depency-artcraps. You can’t even conceal real good stroke from flashy photoshop effects. Take my “word up” in your very system this time for I even I know for sure that you’re going to send a dozen of Ilonggo-readable of “testimonials” to friendster peeps just to drag them in the issue that you and yourself alone have attracted the dark side of Karma. I firmly advise you not to flaunt Christianic verses and lines in your friendster headline because it makes me puke big time to read something angelic from a former fellow who’s always wearing insecure-branded lipstick! Christian verses are for souls with pure and beautiful intentions. And you have none of the above.

teaser end statement: you're just a firecarker Treyvor, I'm your atomic bomb!

Go ahead, click the link below and read the whole stuff in my new blog where my thoughts are blazing!

http://rslphoenix.blogspot.com/

Spin-off Blog (like X-men films to Wolvie flick)

blah blah blah… who said I can’t draw? See me in my own Kuris Art article soon…

New Blog, My Blog

Some people told me and rant about the blog that it doesn’t represent the real thoughts of Kuris Animators. It implies that everything was fabricated. Check the left side of this blog and you’ll see the links. As in “links, links, links” to reality of the buzz you claimed to be scam. Our talents and passion are not just for personal gain. Charity is another thing to unviel the true color of someone’s soul and we will continue to do that in the future. You’ll see. They thought that everything posted and echoed here are just the lousy sentiments and thoughts of only one member. They say it’s me and mine alone, the aledge drag me--- Ronelo/Hex. Since I’ve said this at Guimbal before our grad party, I say this again: my gifts and abilities has nothing to do with somebody’s homophobic filthy thoughts. In fact, I draw better “horse shoe”. One former K guy who backed out and loudy claimed that it’s worth it but cannot admit “inside his very system” that he somehow regrets his choice. Why?---we managed to claim the top spot and left a web-commissioned-based-wannabe-artist, no media hype and stuck in his “something fishy, hehehe” quotes (bleed in friendster, rattle in deviantart). In fact, I remember vividly his sweetest text message in the middle of a heat-up text talk and on the fate of the BEQUEST--"I wish you bad luck pal!". The best response I gave was a laugh and an even sweeter text back--"I sincerely wish you good luck coz I believe in the laws of Karma and Karma does best". The BEQUEST? yeah. some kind of flop stuff. I'm smiling every time I recall this. He also keep saying everything written here are nothing but “kaladladan” (?)! Oh, really? I prefer to eat “laswa” (laswa--concoction of green leafy vegetables and ten times nutricious than cereals) than digest my mind’s eye with your “CRAPSmanship” gallery. At least, Sporty Spice kicks better figures and structures than you (bleed in youtube, too). Okay, this will be the last and swearing right now that I won’t turn this blog again as my own “personal opinion portal”. So, here’s a clue “far-off-justin-timberlake-looks-regretter” who doodles “awful-anatomy-humanoid-looking-anime-art”: I WILL START MY OWN BLOG and we’ll meet at the tip of the pencil’s lead. I will be even glad to post the link of my scourching-hot new blog for you to check the fillings of the sandwich especially made for homophobic “trying-hard-to-draw-photoshop-dependent” art entity when it’s done. Admit it in yourself that you can’t sleep to read our next post. You claim you’re rich now. Get rich with “wishful-thingkings” and stuck in a million imaginary web commisioners (LOL—Laugh out loud). I’m out.

Hex

K-talk in review 1

Kuris--dream on!
Brynh S--you rock!

Jaylord V--autobots transform!



Racil N--do it girl!

Karlo S--inspire us!

Marx S--fly avatar!

Bryan J---Go maverick!

Best of K-Talk (part 1)

Sometimes the best things that happened in our life are tattoed in our mind. But we are in a vsionary effort to inspire artists to scribble every bit of their dreams into reality. No matter how the world turned its back on you, take the next step and walk again. You see, embracing the artist’s life is like an infinite journey, no signal when it would end and how far can we go. All we know is we are born to walk this fate and keep the faith. For us Kuris Animators, the short journey we walked for the past few months is just an indication that we are born to do it. Though it may not be an absolute success yet and just a small amount of compliment, but we are grateful that many Ilonggos believed us somehow. We may have scribbled a piece of history in this side of the planet, but our heart is longing to sail the ship of passion further.
Before we start the Phase Three of Kuris Talk, I think it’s brilliant to summarize the best part of every Kuris Talk we’ve had. Everything that our team member have revealed and expressed are precious pieces of the whole collective legacy that we made. And now, we are sharing it to you before we unviel the rest. Let’s take a little trek back…

It's me,

Hex

Bryan Jandonero: Reveals his maverick artistic soul

IN HIS OWN WORDS:
Well, there’s no particular film that I can think of. Siguro gusto ko liwaton ang mga local nga pelikula nga may law-law nga special effects nga ginhimo sang mga Pilipino diri sa aton (maybe I want to recreate those local films with lousy special effect made by Filipinos). I want to improve the execution of special effects to make it more stunning and can compete with international films today. (On remaking old films in his own perspective)
Balan ko nga damo pa kita bugas nga kaonon bago kita makahambal sini pero amo ni ang akon naandan nga expression kada tapos sang amon mga projects (I know we have a lot of rice to eat before we can say this but this is my usual expression every time we finish our projects)…SUCCESS! (on his favorite expression)

IN MY OWN WORDS:
This guy wants to be a maverick. His mind radiates untapped potentials and out-of-the-box ideas that resembles his dream to make a mark like no other Illonggo artist I’ve ever met before. Mostly, his silence is spent contemplating and defining the odds with his innovative perspective of justifying his artistic soul.

Marx Ydroy Silva: The Avatar animates life

IN HIS OWN WORDS:
I truly admire Filipino illustrators who made a name internationally especially in Marvel and DC comics such as Whilce Portacio, Jerry Alanguilan and Carlo Pagulayan. I hope one day I can also be given a chance to work with them and showcase my talents in comicbook industry. (On his favorite comicbook illustrators)
Kon masubo ko eh or kis-a sa mga masubo nga inagyan ko (when I’m sad or sometimes from sad memories that I’ve been through). The more I get lonely, the more I get inspired to draw and use these feelings to push my artistic ability further. You see, I gain a sense of freedom from all the worries and heartaches in drawing. (On where he gets his inspiration to draw)
IN MY OWN WORDS:
In one corner of that small studio owned by another group of artists where we stayed to finish our animated project The BEQUEST, the scorching heat of the day and the hardship that were going through was forgotten for while to enjoy the magnificent animated series that has become our inspiration. An inspiration we discovered through Marx, a certified Avatar fanatic.
Marx Ydroy Silva, a 21-year-old amateur animator has become a significant player to the rise of Kuris Animation Unlimited.

Karlo Sira: Mentoring young Ilonggos for world-class animation

IN HIS OWN WORDS:
There are three words that pops in my mind when we talk about success, you’ve got to have discipline, perseverance and passion. With the right goal and optimism, we can reach our dreams and become successful in everything that we want in life. (On his definition of success)
Well, for sure Ilonggo animators are unique and gifted with raw talents for animation that deserved to be given some attention. My animation students are innovative, creative and determined to introduce new style amid the simplicity of the technology we use. I can see their struggles to perfect their craft and contribute something for the society. (On his opinion why Ilonggo animators are unique)
For me, I just want to share what I learned from my experience as a teacher and I’m sharing what I learned from those who shared their talents to me. It’s like a symbiotic effect. So, ‘share your talents! (On his goal and passion as an artist)
IN MY OWN WORDS:
All his life, he takes every step of the way in living and mentoring as a challenge to prove his worth, his undying hope to succeed. He started every endeavor by sowing seeds of hope and optimism, cultivate it with passion and determination until the day comes that he’s ready to reap the fruits of his labor. Being a teacher, he knew he’s destined for greater things… to inspire people of never giving up their dreams.

Ma. Racil Nacar: The girl with artistic stroke

IN HER OWN WORDS:
Aside from my family, tani updanay kami pirme tanan sa paglab-ot sang amon mga handom kag mangin close pa gid… siguro mahambal ko sa kaugalingon ko nga masadya na ang kabuhi ko kon matabo na (aside from my family, I hope we will all be together in reaching our ambitions and become closer…maybe I could say to myself that I’m happy with my life when that will happen). (On what completes her life right now)
This is all I’d like to say about our group-- we achieve our goals in the right way, we don’t lose hope in everything that we do, we don’t easily give up and think positive all the time. (On what makes her proud as a member of Kuris)
IN MY OWN WORDS:
Her innocent smile can sometimes cover her true potential as an artist, an uprising animator who belongs to a team of innovative and creative dreamers. Her soft-spoken nature and managerial skills often considered by his fellow animators as an asset that contributed to the visible success of every endeavor they pursue.

Jaylord Villalobos: The Transformer kuris animator unveils his passion

IN HIS OWN WORDS:
Siyempre galain man buot ko eh kay basi kuno wala pakadtuan ang work nga ini (of course, I feel bad about it because they thought I have nowhere to go with this kind of work). For me, I just follow what I love to do since I was a kid and I have faith that one day they will realize that this craft, my passion and talents will get me somewhere else in life. (On his response to the discouraging opinions he got from his family for his passion for animation)
To become a professional animator and work in one of the biggest animation studio in the world. (On his greatest dream as animator)
IN MY OWN WORDS:
There’s something phenomenal about Jaylord’s passion. Amid the risk and discouragements he sometimes gets from pursuing his passion, his spirit remains optimistic, determined and patient. When he put his heart in every goal and dream, he knows how to wait and hold Even now as an amateur Ilonggo animator, he knew he must climb mountains to prove himself better.

Brynh de los Reyes: When the cryptic kuris animator talks

IN HIS OWN WORDS:
Right now, when I see my five-month old daughter I fondly called “Lalan” there’s a lasting feeling of happiness and contentment. I wish I could be a good dad as she grow up. (On what makes him happy these days)
Of course, The BEQUEST! During the time we were making it, the pressure was very strenuous “kag abi namon indi na gid matapos kay ang iban nga tawo gahambal nga indi na kuno makalagas bag-o mag-January 25” (because we thought that we couldn’t finish it, other people kept on saying we can’t catch it before January 25--the showing date of the film). “ang malain pa gid kay bisan iban namon nga upod nadulaan salig nga matapos ang project (another bad thing was that some of our members have lost hope that we can finish the project), so they left us. But we finish it on time and the rest is history. (On the most important achievement of Kuris right now)
I want to say it in Illonggo dialect- “kami ang pinakauna nga animators sa Iloilo nga nakaobra sang 2D kag 3D animated nga pelikula nga bisan law-ay sa iban nami man gihapon para sa amon kay pinangabudlayan gid namon tanan” (On what’s the best thing being a member of Kuris)

IN MY OWN WORDS:
Brynh is cryptic. If I would be given a few more choices of words to describe him with a single word, I won’t change my mind. Sometimes, his magnificent ideas in making our project just flows like water of a riverbank with endless boundaries. But when his mood fluctuates, anticipate him to start blabbering crazy stuff and nonsensical lines that will make us laugh all throughout the evening. When things gets rough in our restless nights of doing our animated projects and pressures to finish it on time, this guy, this natural born joker entertained us with his wits and wags.

POSTSCRIPT:

The writer has absolutely no plan to interview himself or write something about him in Kuris Talk. But his Kuris friends encourage him to write something about himself. They say, he deserves to shed some light on his misunderstood personality. So I hope our blog readers won’t conclude that he’s one self-appraising fool. After all, expressing someone’s sentiments is encourage to make the world go round away from enmity. So here’s a sneak peek of my personal interview about myself (is there anything like this?)…

I won’t jump to conclusion that I am good in interviewing myself. I won’t be, I swear. Somebody told me in the past that if I would always struggle to impress other people, then I am fooling myself. Time goes by and I realize that I need to impress myself first in every artistic expression that I do. The rest of it doesn’t matter if I have pleased people as long as I did my best. (Oh his thoughts about talking to himself and artistic expression).
His friends and family would always say that he’s good in drawing. He was grade five when he tied first place in a poster making contest with a fourth year artist in their school. He used ordinary crayons while the fourth year artist used sophisticated watercolor. The judges of the contest were impressed by his artistic strokes. For them, it was phenomenal. (On his early artistic feats)
I love the way my Aunts raised me with radiant strength in my spirit, they knew I needed this when I face the tides of life someday. (On family virtues)
My best friends are the colors of my life’s spectrum. Though each comes in various colors and hues, they form a collective warm sunshine in my life to get over a day and another day of journey. but some people refuse to believe I value these prized possessions. they were wrong to conclude what I am made of. I know I am made of heart and dreams. (On his thoughts about friendship and himself)

Next Groove!

Black 2 Back artwork from Hex...matrix style!

One, two, three...click.... Brynh is goofy, Marx is serious and Elson is cool.

Four Kuris at the barnyard (after party effect)

Back 2 Back with Hex and Zyra

Chilling out with Jay and Marx... Kuris "specialproject" boys

Back 2 Black

No, we paid our electric bill. It doesn’t mean that if our new music video is made up of mostly black and shady effects, people whom we knew in the past who keep campaigning negatively about us are always certain with their judgements. We tried to be friendly and sincere that we’re not yet rich enough to pay the bill (a few months ago) they claimed to be unpaid. We play the game of life fair and square, honest and sincere, open and transparent. But if they are creating black propagandas about us by sending discouraging comments in this blog, then check your heartbeat now. It beats faster and rapid because you might feel upset upon reading this, hehe. Don’t exagerate the debt you claim to be skyrocked, it won’t make you poor emotionally. Funny, this is just a joke. And you read it seriously.
Anyway, we’re serious now. Kuris Animators had a fun week by meeting up at the fiesta in Janelyn’s house at Oton, Iloilo last Tuesday, May 13. A few days before that meeting, she was rampaging our cellphones with her text to visit them on their fiesta. Well, once a Kuris always a Kuris, I should say. Nobody can refuse this bubbly gal. In the afternoon of May 13, Sir Karlo and the rest of the special project Kuris boys are there already (Jaylord and Marx minus Bryan). Elson catch up with them at around 5:30 pm. Brynh and I, met in the city at around 6pm and headed straight to Janelyn’s place. When we arrive there, the funny mentor of the team, Sir K, was already satisfied with his meal. So we catch up with the meal marathon. Two plates of various “handa” (menudo, valenciana, salad, etc.) solved Brynh’s hunger problem. Poor guy, he’s very punctual with his class schedule in 2D AutoCad at Informatics. So the chatting goes on and on until Sir K decided to bid goodbye since its getting late in the evening. Janelyn and the rest of us headed to their sala to gulp some beer. Yeah, we drink occasionally or should I say for party reasons. Anyway, after a brief picture taking and watching of our new creeeeepy music video that we lately posted at youtube.com, Marx and Brynh call it go-home-time (I thought we’re going to stay for a whole night). The extremly jealous Racil who can’t be with us since she’s at home in Aklan texted us about how’s the party going. Yeah, girl it was great. Lucky I saved some pics for you here at the blog. She texted us--- Ahay a, tani upod ta dira. Next time, next time…OK, I texted back.
By the way, before we bid bye bye today, I think It’s nice to tell you all guys that we really appreciate those who send cool messages about us and to some haters (we luv your style to put us back on track). In a few weeks time, we will post new and fresh interviews for the Phase Three of Kuris Talk and welcome a new segment (sort of)…its gonna be “Kuris Art” wherein each of us will be sharing some of our most secreted and well-guarded artworks to be posted here with some insights from the animator/artists. The blog is so “linkable” now to some of our friendster blogs/ accounts,youtube and yes, some juicy connection to various websites that featured our beloved BEQUEST animated project. Try to click one at the left side of this blog.

You’ll see what I mean.

So what’s the fuss with the new creeeepy, daaarkly and shhhhhady music video of the group? Just click the link below and you’ll see what we are blabbing about. JT and Timbaland, your collaboration is doing good for us (and for our friendship). We’re lowbatt now—lights off!

Click now below!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=pTBjinPf-QI

New groove!

To all Kurisan's friends and fans,

We posted today our latest music video entitled-- "Give 8 2 Me" at youtube.com.
You may click the link below and check it how we groove, prove and shake the right stuff with Timbaland's song featuring Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado.
Thank you for watching some of our previous music videos and animated projects at youtube.com. Right now, we are busy making some big decisions for our upcoming events and projects. We hope to pick the right one that would lead us to our aspirations. For us, animation is the very reason of our existence. "LAPIS: Quest for the lost key" and a new BEQUEST might be coming soon either this year or next year. You can check our future posts for some tidbit teasers and info about the line up of characters that would be appearing in LAPIS. Our blog is much more interactive now and linkable to lots of stuff like our member's Friendster accounts, music videos and animated projects at youtube.com. Just take a look at the right side of the blog and you'll find all the liks that I am saying. You also notice our header? wow, I think it's really cool to have it there. The official Kuris website is coming up a few months from now and yes, I must admit to those who makes side comments about us in Kenshin's cellphone...come one man, grow up! Glittering websites won't make sense at all if it's just all about glitz. Substance-wise, sensible and relevant articles even makes our blog miles ahead from anything else when it comes to essense... because we put our "very heart" in every post and not just some colored-coated candies art stuff without substance inside! Next day, we will have again a new meeting at Janelyn's house for their annual fiesta (May 13). Hopefully, the rest of the gang would show up, have a little brainstorming, talk about the upcoming special project with Sir Kaloy and enjoy the party after a gruelling week.
We really appreciate those people who sent warm messages in our email. Thanks, you made us more humble of what we can do in life!

TC. Always BELIV N UR DREMZ!

Click below to see the latest crazy stuff of Kuris Gang (not Gucci, I should say)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=EG_VidPnQG8

What lies ahead...

Change of plans

Though we are steady with our dream to achieve something relevant this year, the pressure and opportunities keeps knocking in our doorstep. Sometimes, we have no clear idea and decision what course to take to reach our goal. For us, our goal is just simple as expressing our artistic perspective and leaving something significant for the Ilonggos. No, we are not trying to be pretentious or hypocrite, we know what we want and we know our gifts… so want to use it to inspire budding artists, young animators and those who have unexpressed passion similar to our craft. Some people thought we are too obsessed of promoting our group and our talent. I think they failed to look deeper in our heart and check the essence of our soul--we are artists and art is our passion to live life to the fullest.
Recently, we announced our plan to start the production of “LAPIS: Epic of the lost key”, a short animated trailer set as entry for ACPI Animation Festival this year. The BEQUEST will just remain the way it is, destined to be kept and set aside since it has already made its mark in the local Ilonggo history. But life is all about to change for us since changes keep surprising us most of the time. There was an offer from a good friend to recreate The BEQUEST into a full-length new version next year (that might be more than one hour) and change the main character Nino into Dagoy(?). I wish it was an easy task but lack of manpower hampered our plan since we are composed of not more than 15 members. Most full-length animated films made by international animation studios like Walt Disney or Pixar took them years (mostly 2-3 years if it is done in 2D or 3D format) to finish a single film unless it is an animated TV series. You see, Ilonggo animation is not as equipped and manpower-ready to become so ambitious of keeping the pace from other international animation industry or even the capital Manila flourishing animation. This year, two mega full-length Filipino animation movies will be launched such as APT productions’ “Urduja” that featured Regine Velasquez’ singing and dubbing voice(slated for nationwide theatre release on June 18) and Cutting Edge Production’s rumored to be first of the three-part trilogy “Dayo” (set for December 2008 release).
My groupmates are excited to make the LAPIS animated trailer while keeping our other part time jobs. Our lead animators Marx and Bryan along with Jaylord is currently busy finishing their special project for WVCST. Their employers (so to speak) are very much contented of the development and capabilities they have shown in their work. The thought of positivity in their project and the wait for their salary are also few other things that keeps them going. Amado and Dads have their own personal careers which keeps them steady but somehow never failed to contact the group if ever their presence is needed. Janelyn, Racil, Elson and Aladin are busy with studies and future plans. Brynh might be leaving soon to pursue his future plans and hopefully include us in his endeavor to go further in life. The rest of us are hanging on and look forward to keep the group alive. I guess everything about the group doesn’t deal much on business or how to make money right now…but it’s all about bonding, passion and keeping the friendship survive. Lately, one of our brilliant animation instructors from our 2D animation training last year approached us to pursue a new endeavor that might or possibly put the group in the spotlight. He convinced us to turn LAPIS into a full-length animation film feature instead of making it a short trailer if our project proposal for a government agency would be approved by August. We were given not more a week to prepare the documents and requirements needed for the proposal. The processing period of our proposal would start later this May until August. It is very strenuous to assemble all the requirements considering everybody is busy doing their won personal endeavors lately. If fate permits us to go beyond the borders of Iloilo and take the centerstage in Manila, then this would be a huge miracle and gift from God. He knows our passion and dream well than anybody else. He provided us with phenomenal talents, generous people who assisted us to reach our goal and a pathway to conquer our failures. We are proud of our fighting spirit more than anything else. We achieved and try to achieve everything we dream in the right way, fair game and remain grateful to those who understand our passion. We never ever resorted in hurting people (for no reason), putting down others or making up stories to pursue our goal. Our track record in the local media, supportive sponsors, successful projects and humble beginning speaks about the sincerity, integrity we invested in everything we do. These changes have made us decide to send The BEQUEST in the upcoming ACPI Animation Festival this year instead of LAPIS. We might be able to re-work the music, dubbing and add English sub-title to the animated short film. Marx and I even agreed to add 2-3 more animated scenes to make the film more exciting when it will be shown in Manila. We hope to start the editing soon before August in between our day jobs and special projects. A good friend of the group, Troy Camarista, SM City’s PR officer even agreed to lend his musical talents and use his personal recorded rap songs when he was a student to be used as The BEQUEST soundtrack. So we might expect an all-original soundtrack for the film soon. And yes, before I forget, he also wanted to launch a compilation book of his BLURB articles (his former lifestyle and pop culture magazine published in Iloilo City a few years ago) later this year coinciding with Kuris animation’s LAPIS mall launching (I guess you’ll know by now what mall we will launch the project, hehe). Now, another special project from WVCST is coming and the rest of us in the group are requested to lend their talent to make the plan work. We hope that destiny is on our side always to keep us soaring and dreaming for more.
We are not afraid to risk. We try to walk our talk.

Kuris Talk # 11: Amado Caporal Jr.

Tarburnok face # 4: Cute face, strong X-factor, artistic soul... pencil and retro mix well!
Taburnok face # 3: Who would have thought that this little jungle boy can now give David Beckham a run for his money when it comes to Metrosexualism (note: men who love fashion)
Taburnok face # 2: Showing the fashionista side of his personality, Taburnok knows what's posh and fashionable!
Taburnok face # 1: He's not little Tarzan anymore, he's a mega talented man now!

Amado Caporal Jr.
Sharpening his gifts for Ilonggo animation
By Ronelo Ladiao

Sharpening his gifts has never been easy. As long as he can remember, he has been doodling and scribbling every time he holds a pencil since he was young. Until now, Amado remains passionate in what does best-- arts. His artistic growth was nurtured with challenges and inspiration to prove himself better in a world of possibilities. Now, as one of the founding and dynamic members of Kuris Animation Unlimited, a top caliber team of Ilonggo animators, Amado is sharing the same aspiration with them to create a possible Ilonggo pop culture phenomenon that would sharpen his way to success.

Coming from a middle class family in Tumcon Ilaya, Pototan, Iloilo, his parents Amado Caporal Sr. and Heidi Caporal considered their third child of five siblings as a gifted child. He was born on July 14, 1980. Amado’s younger years were fascinating for his parents because he has been seen having the potential of an artist every time he holds a pencil and a paper. He used to be fond of watching animated series Dragon Balls Z, Spiderman and Casper. Later, his elementary years at Guinakas Elementary School led him to achieve art and drawing awards that honed his talent further. Even in his high school years at Pototan College of Arts and Science, Amado didn’t stop reaping several awards which earned the respect of his friends and peers as the school’s top artist. In college, Amado took up Bachelor of Science in Industrial Education at West Visayas State University (Pototan Campus). During these years, he started to accept freelance art jobs to sustain his needs and help his family. His scope as an artist who used to draw his own comicbook expanded to arts and sign—t-shirt printing, lettering, canvas, mural painting, charcoal portraiture, stage backdrops, styro graphics and many others as long as it is ordered by his clients mostly composed of his friends or neighbors. After finishing college, he was already considered an in-demand artist in their town doing major art jobs for fiestas, school activites and various social activities. His clientele grew and expanded in Iloilo City doing backdrops and styro grpahics for several mall events, booth designing and exhibits. From the way he told his struggles to become a pro versatile artist, Amado earned the credibility and trust of the long list of clients whom he satisfied with his quality of work, a laudable ethics he always maintain with every art job he accept.

A new oppurtunity to sharpen his skills arrive when he was convinced to apply for a scholarship on 2D Animation given by PGMA- Training for Work Scholarship Program and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in partnership with Western Visayas College of Science and Technology (WVCST) last year. On April, he joined the second batch of 2D animation trainees who work together to hone their talents further. He played a significant role in finishing their group project, “The Adventures of TASI”, an animated school advertisement of WVCST which was shown at Marymart Mall last September. After the success of TASI, they graduated on October 19, 2007 at SM City Iloilo and participated in “Kinarton” animation exhibit at Museo Iloilo in the last week of November. To launch their newly-named group “Kuris”, he joined in the making of the first Ilonggo animated short film entitled “The BEQUEST” that revealed the origin of Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival in form of 2D and 3D animation. For his part, Amado was the lead background artist of the project and was responsible in making decisions to make the film more innovative. When it comes to good sceneries and background effects, surely he has an artist eye for this kind of craft. After two months of gruelling schedule and pressure, he shared the same fulfillment with his fellow Kuris animators when The BEQUEST was finally shown at SM Cinema 7 on the evening of January 25, two days before the highlight of Dinagyang Festival.More than five hundred Ilonggo spectators witnessed the first animated film in Iloilo City and gained favorable reviews among art critics along with their animation exhibit at SM City Iloilo lower ground floor entitled “Dinagyamation” from January 14-20.

Inspired by their group effort to come up with a historical animation event, Amado sets his eyes to prove himself better again by supporting the coming projects of Kuris Animators which include a re-launching of The BEQUEST, bigger animation promotions, exhibits, animation lecture drive and the making of the new animated project “LAPIS: Epic of the lost key”.

Though he still maintains his day job as a freelance artist, the humble but dynamic part-time animator remains sharp in everything he says in this candid chat…

Ronelo Ladiao (RL): Can you tell us when did you started to draw?

Amado Caporal (AC): When I was in elementary, I remember myself making my own comics that I share with my friends and my hobby was collecting some Marvel trading cards. I never thought being a freelance artist would be a great career for me after college.

RL: Let’s talk about your career as a freelance artist, is it hard?

AC: Very hard. There are lots of freelance artists out there that compete with each other to gain projects and clients. You see, with all the harship of life these days, artists tend to compete in order to survive. But I try to be patient and let my workmanship speaks about what I can do for my clients. Luckily, almost all of them are satisfied with my work and they keep coming back because they know how I give my best in everything I do. It doesn’t matter if my clients would pay high or low rate, I try to make sure that I could satisfy them with my output.

RL: Hypothetical question—if you’re an art tool, what would you want to be and why?

AC: Gusto ko mangin Lapis eh! Siyempre ang aton imahinasyon ginadrawing ta, kon magsala ginaerase ta kag liwaton para magobra liwat sang mas nami pa gid (I want to be a pencil. Of course, we draw our imagination and when we commit mistakes, we erase it to make a better one).

RL: Is there anything else you can do not related to arts?

AC: Yes, I’m good in haircutting as well (laughs).

RL: Since you have a degree in teaching, do you plan to become a teacher someday?

AC: Well, if given a chance I would like to become a good teacher. But right now, I realize it would be better if I would teach animation or some sort of animation instructor for hopeful animators. I hope that opportunity and dream would be realized for us in Kuris.

RL: This time, tell us something about “Taburnok”your orignal animated character for Kuris Universe and how is he related to your personality?

AC: Actually, I was inspired to create “Taburnok” when my sister got pregnant and had a baby girl even if she’s not ready to have a family because she’s too young for her age. During that time, we were asked to create an original character by our animation instructor. Though my niece is a baby girl, still I decided to create a male character, a little boy named Taburnok who is adventurous, agile, brave and somewhat funny like Walt Disney’s Tarzan. He lived in a jungle full of wild animals that obeyed him and treated him like a prince. He swings from tree to tree, drives away illegal loggers and those who cause destruction in the forest. But in reality he’s just an ordinary boy who is sleeping and dreaming to be like Tarzan. Taburnok represents my character and fighting spirit to survive whenever I go.

RL: In your experience, what do you consider as the most challenging part of being a Kuris animator?

AC: Kis-a indi ako satisfied sa obra ko gani ginachallenge ko pa gid ang akon kaugalingon nga lapawan ko pa ang akon nga nahimo sang una pareho sa ginhimo ko sa BEQUEST. Madamo pa ako gusto ipakita nga improvements sa amon mga projects sa ulihi. (Sometimes I’m not satisfied with my output so I challenge myself to overcome my effort in the past like what I did in The BEQUEST. I want to show a lot of improvements in our project in the near future). I want to give my best in what I do.

RL: What do you consider as the masterpiece of Kuris Animators right now?

AC: Ang BEQUEST eh! Siyempre ini nga project naton may samo nga 3D animation bisan wala naton gintun-an sa aton kurso pero gindidikaran naton nga tun-an kag tapuson. (The BEQUEST, of course, this project has mix 3D animation even if we didn’t take up in our course but we didicated ourselves to study and finish it).

RL: What is the most important lesson you’ve learned as an animator?

AC: Basta sa umpisa indi lang maghandum sang mataas. Sige lang anay kay may padya gid na ang aton kabudlay (Don’t aim high from the start, Just keep on going because our sacrifices will have a reward).

RL: What makes you happy aside from your passion in arts?

AC: So far I’ve always been happy and I try to be contented of what have in my life. I don’t consider problems as hindrance to my ambitions and think about them as inspiration to reach my goals.

RL: Parting shot query—if you were to transform your artwork into Ilonggo verbal expression, what would it be?

AC: “Kaurugot!”(sounds upset)… nga nami man kay damo ko naayan nga kabudlay para maimprove ang akon abilidad …kag masadya man para sa akon achievements (but good enough because I’ve been through a lot of hardship to improve my abilities…and still happy with regards to my achievements).

For comments, email us at kurisanimators@yahoo.com

Kuris Summer Interlude 3

Pose.Strike.Mad.Moody.Serious.Crazy.Cool.
get ready action! where's Jet lee...how's Jacky...did Bruce Lee kick your face?
Mermaids, you forgot your seashell bras...hahahaha. Lucky these two girls brought their own.
What does Donkey Kong doing in this shot with Tatang and Jay?
Two Kuris gals on the loose...beware of their tempting smile...they can be addictive to watch together, hehe.
Where's Dyesebel among these statues?
Dyvrum--miss u sis!, Racil--I felt like ur baby pre!
Boys, boys...I hope that's not scandalous, hehe.
Bravo's writings in the sand...isn't this supposed to be sandcastles?
Kenshin's writings on the wood... isn't this a lovely vandalism?

KURIS SUMMER INTERLUDE_PHASE 3

It was 6:30pm already. Marx left for home because he’s not feeling well while Bryan texted—apas ko nel wait nyo ari pako sa UP sbng. It was about to rain at Plaza Molo while waiting for the rest of them who promised to catch up for the Oton trip. Suddenly, Racil saw Dyvrum, our long lost member who was so busy with his life. It was instant hugging session for both of them. Bryan arrived looking tired. Then we decided to go straight to Rvierside Beach even if the rain was pouring hard. When we arrive at the beach, it was already 7pm and Janelyn texted—bakal na kmo da uling kg kwa n kmo cottage ky pra pagabot ko masugba nlng ta isda ok. An hour later, she arrive carrying a big box of rice and another box of fresh fishes. Jaylord and Janelyn decided to cook the fishes. Even if we don’t have spoons and plates, we decided to do it the Mang Inasal way—“kamotanay kaon eh”, hehe. When our tummy was full, we decided to watch “Stardust” again in my laptop which was interrupted earlier at Sir Kaloy’s place. After the gang was fascinated by the film, the planning and sort of brainstorming session concluded…”what should we accept, this or that project? I can’t decide it on my own since we lack resources but we can choose the best one and focus our attention in it”, I said. After Bryan gave his opinion, which I rely, half of my decision since he has control of the creative and technical aspects of our projects, I realize we have the right choice already. Though the cold, hard rain took its strong blow that night, we had a good night sleep and rest for tomorrow.

Early in the morning, Bryan and Tatang decided to have a little walk in the beach. A few minutes later we were talking already to swim. So after tons of picture taking, the rest of us dip our bodies in the cold sea to have fun. As usual, the Kurisans are naughty and loved the thrill of the swimming. Tatang swims like a big fish while Racil seemed like a lousy mermaid who doesn’t want to move. Before we had our breakfast prepared and cooked by Jaylord, Bryan made a huge lettering of Kuris in the sand. I was so impressed and realized that indeed our bonding is strong. Though we wrote everything we dream in the sand, we will do our best now that everything will not be easily wash away by the waves of the sea... including our hope and our dream to prove ourselves better. Whatever we have, we cherish and whatever we do, we do it with passion. So it was a perfect moment to have one last picture taking with the Kuris lettering in the sand.

As we head towards home while riding a jeepney, the rest of us were laughing and teasing. Janelyn texted me before she left—uplod mo s frenster pics ta ha. I texted back—ok a!

KURIS SUMMER INTERLUDE___END

Kuris Summer Interlude 2

Tatang said (before gets drunk)..."beer anyone?"
Marx--get into the groove, Tatang--get this creature off my chest!
OH! calf in the city meets Kuris on the road...hehehe! (little cow and Kuris I should say)
Where's the rest of the handa? Oh, did they ate em' all? I guess so...burp!
Jeepney ride has never been this fun for the Kuris Gang (I thought Gucci gang)
Want some more beer?...Sir kaloy said. Malagyo ko anay kay kapait sang beer!...Jaylord blurted.

KURIS SUMMER INTERLUDE_PHASE 2

From Saturday to Sunday, April 26-27, Janelyn and I were texting the gang for a perfect reunion scheduled on April 30. But Dads and Amado insisted to delay it further until May I because of their hectic work schedule. We understand the two old guys, hehe. They were making a living and give some time for their career. Sir Karlo texted us the next day—kuris team pamista kmo dri samon thurs invited kmo tnan a. I replied—sure Sir mkad2 kami da! When the group got my news, it was an agreement already to visit Sir Karlo in their fiesta at Sta. Barbara and by 5:30pm we will go straight to Riverside Beach in Oton for an exciting reunion. Then by Thurday, May 1, Marymart Foodcourt witnessed our chaotic meeting again. I was texting them badly by 10am in the newly-opened foodcourt---diin na kamo man dugay a! They texted back—(Marx) wait lng nel bago lng ko bugtaw ligo pko, (Elson) lain matyag ko nel ara n kmo da?, (Aladin aka Tatang) ri nko din kna nel and (Racil) ara na wait! As the long procession of waiting was finally over and when Marx was the last one to arrive (we were about to leave him), we go straight to Sta. Barbara.

Upon arriving at Sir Karlo’s house, the Kuris gang seemed to feel at home. We’ve been here and even stayed for overnight last December (I forgot the exact date). It was real fun to chat with Sir Kaloy who has always been so “kalog” and sometimes trying-hard to be funny, hehe. After the sumptuous meal, drinks were served, I mean, beer of course. Jaylord seemed hesitant to take one bottle. Gosh, he acts like a girl swearing he never drink at all. Racil and Janelyn, well they tried their best to do it but I was the one consuming their bottle (call it great excuse). Marx was aggressive, I mean impresses us with his confidence, hehe. Tatang got drunk when we started to watch Claire Dane’s sci-fi film last year “Stardust” on my laptop. Gosh, it was a good film as approved by Sir Kaloy himself. So I raised the idea that Stardust is a good inspiration to make our next project which is “Lapis: Epic of the lost key” (which is now being change to “Quest for the lost key”). The story about a falling star who turned out to be a real human being who was Claire Danes is an impressive twist…a similar kind of twist we wanted for Lapis. And the special effects—perfectly awesome! A little later, Amado arrived and joined the gang. The funny picture taking took place and distracted our concentration to the film. 5:30pm alarmed in my cel, it’s time to leave for the beach.

Summer interlude 1

Zyra and Kenshin so happy together
Destiny's Kuris hehehe!
Swing out Kuris... so pop!
Baby Kuris and Sporty Kuris... so 90s
What are you looking at man! they're not BSB on the loose simple Kyle and Marx

KURIS SUMMER INTERLUDE____BEGIN

It’s time to beat the summer heat and hit the road again for a bunch of animation geeks like Kuris animators that spend the rest of the months working in grueling project schedules, on-the-road lecture drive and taking a break to face their personal lives. Refreshed and ready to break the barriers of boredom again, the Kurisans jump into another ride of fun and escapade to unwind, bring back the energy of friendship and commitment.

It was April 25 when Kuris animators decided to meet each other at Marymart Mall as early 12 noon. I texted them: 2 all kuris we wil met at marymart fudcourt 2day 4 a meting of r coming projek & a propsal frm a frnd wu wnts us to mke sumting. They responded---(Janelyn) sure a! wait me, (Racil) dali lng himos lng ko, (Marx) lata nyo gd ko nel ha, hehe. A few minutes later someone texted me—(Elson) wer na u tnan?, (Kyle) here nko nel. I texted back—ri na kmi de fudcurt a kad2 n dri. Then it was all out chat after we saw each other. Some of them have no budget for fare, so as usual the group helped each other to reach our destination. But it was awful since the transaction and meeting didn’t happen. We wonder our contact didn’t came over to meet us. But I can see in their faces that unsuccessful meeting or not, this little failure won’t stop us from fighting the tides of life and a big big dream. Later, Dads texted-- here nko sbng ti? He and Janelyn (who was also late) treated us with some Selecta pinipig crunch. Good thing he knows how to cure our upset mood, hehe. The rest of the gang decided to go home when the three of us—Janelyn, Racil and I decided to go with Dads for his summer job as swimming instructor in Centennial Resort in Jaro. I realize that I could interview Dads and Janelyn for their profile slated to be posted in our blog. The next thing we know when we get there was all fun chat, laughter and some crazy pictorials at the Resort’s kiddie playground. We felt like we were kids again having fun like we never did before. I hope you can check some of it in our friendster photo albums, hehe. That evening before we decided to go home, a great summer reunion popped in our heads. So there you go…Kuris summer reunion was planned perfectly.

RockED's pasa arte Take 2!

PASA ARTE: Rock Ed Iloilo in Full Swing
02.23.2008
50 volunteers traveled all the way to Don Ignacio Ramirez Memorial Elementary School (DIRMES) in Jayubo, Lambunao, Iloilo. Situated at the mountainous part of Lambunao, DIRMES is 60 kilometers from the city.

Rock Ed Iloilo held a one-day art workshop for students from Grades 4 to 6. Volunteers of Otaku Geirin, an art circle formed by Christian Evren Lozanes which focuses on Japanese Anime and Manga held most of the classes. Several Ilonggo artists such as Coco Belgica, Nil Capinianes and Jovin Militar also offered to share their time and talent for the 360 children coming from the Sulod-Bukidnon Tribe. The Kuris Animators, formed by the Artists Guild of Western Visayas College of Science & Technology (College of Industrial Tecnhology) took care of the screening of Bequest: Origin of Dinagyang, the first Ilonggo animated short film on the history of the country’s premier tourist event. The students enjoyed the post-screening open forum with filmmakers themselves.

With Mr. John Michael Ng, President of the Rotary Club of Metro Iloilo and Dr. Paul Francia, Rock Ed Iloilo donated art materials, visual aids for the classrooms and several art books. Kathy Villalon, Lifestyle & Entertainment Editor of The News Today (TNT) personally donated several plastic envelopes containing school supplies which served as prizes for the drawing contests during the art workshop. Mr. Romeo Young of VP D’Tops Bookstore gave several boxes of sharpeners, pencils and erasers to be used for the art workshop. Apstar and Iloilo Society Commercial also donated school supplies for Pasa Arte.

The remaining books from last year’s BookBigayan were distributed to each classroom. Callbox, a full service sales and marketing firm owned by Rom Agustin and Glen Norris, provided food and drinks to the students during the art workshop. Tossing in invaluable assistance to this project was Amy Tudence, PR and Recruitment Specialist of Callbox, for being mega-link for this coming together of efforts.
Sidlangan Sublak, a civic organization, contributed financial support and negotiation for transport from Atelier Banucci and B Mongolian BBQ & Grill, the drop off points for book donations.

What a day for all the Rock Ed Ilonggos. The faculty and students were all grateful and asked for a “Part 2” of Pasa Arte. According to Mr. Rogelio Gumana, the Principal, it was the first time that anyone ever helped their school, especially after they were hit by a storm last year and destroyed classrooms located at the higher portion of the mountain. The possibility of doing this project again is now one of the focus of Rock Ed Iloilo.
The bright smiles of the children of Lambunao is well worth the time and effort we gathered to make this possible. And we invite you to be part of this ongoing project.

To join Rock Ed Iloilo email: rockediloilo@yahoo.com.ph
Text by: Rock Ed Iloilo Photos courtesy of Dr. Paul Francia and Christian Evren Lozanes, Rock Ed Iloilo

(taken from http://www.rockedphilippines.org/)

Kuris Talk # 10: Aladin Lacsina

Samuragi is a BIG thing animated character by Aladin that tells about a young Filipino samurai who can control the forces of nature with his mystical sword...I guess "Storm" of the X-men can have a run for her money, hehe!

Samuragi trip # 3: Who would have thought that this partime fisherman can someday fish lotsa fame with his magnificent talent for animation?

Samuragi trip #2: sometimes BIG fish like this Kuris animator is a rare specie to find in a world of tight competition... for luck and talent.

Samuragi trip # 1: Whatever oceans he crosses, this BIG fish makes sure he sets his heart in crossing it... to success!

Aladin Lacsina
The Big fish of Kuris
By Ronelo Ladiao

Though he loves to catch fish as one of his partime jobs in his quiet provincial life, Aladin Lacsina is gifted with untapped abilities to share something BIG in the spawning of the newest cultural achievement of Ilonggo artists, in the promising animation trend as part of Kuris Animation Unlimited, Inc. His strong determination, daring innovations and fun-loving nature makes him another “ace” in the sleeve of a group of uprising Ilonggo animators to quest for their dream. A dream he gladly shares with all his heart as they try to go fishing for better opportunities right in the middle of an ocean filled with great possibilities for hopeful animators like themselves.
For the couple Pepito and Paz Lacsina of Barangay Gines, Miag-ao, Iloilo, their third child of four siblings is truly gifted with artistic stroke that they saw as Aladin grew up. Winning several medals and awards in art-related competitions he joined during his elemenatry and high school years at Valencia Elementary School and Kirayan National High School, respectively, he’s destined to bring his gift whenever he goes. He took up Architectural Drafting at Southern Iloilo Polytechnic College for three years and decided to quit school due to financial difficulties. To cover up his needs and support his family, Aladin choosed to accept freelance art jobs which includes t-shirt printing, lettering, canvas making, mural painting and many others for more than three years. Mostly, his clients were made up of his relatives, friends and neighbors who knew about his inclination in arts. In his freetime, he accepts various odd jobs such as fishing, carpentry and many others.
One of his cousins informed him of the existence of 2D animation course being offered by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Iloilo City. Instantly, he got excited and pursued the admission test a few weeks after. As expected, Aladin passed the admission test and started to join the second batch of trainees at Western Visayas College of Science and Technology (WVCST) on April 2007. During the training, he was able to develop his artistic skills even further and was considered as one of the potential animators of the class. When the “Adventures of TASI”, their significant group project about WVCST statue who become a real boy for one day according to their storyline, Aladin proved his versatility in making refined “in-between” and “clean-up” drawing frames. These two kinds of drawings are main techniques in 2D animation which they are taught in the course. After TASI was shown to the public on September 2007 via IT Week celebration at Marymart Mall, Aladin and his fellow animators called their group “Kuris” (Ilonggo term for scribbled line) to show their Ilonggo roots. He recieved his certificate of completion on October 19, 2007 at SM City Iloilo in a well-attended graduation ceremony. Their next endeavor after “Kinarton” animation exhibit at Museo Iloilo after a month was “The BEQUEST: Origin of Dinagyang”, a short animated film about the historical legacy of Iloilo City’s famous festival created in 2D and 3D format. Aladin proved his fighting spirit and determination as the group’s most efficient “in-between” and “clean-up” animator. According to Bryan and Marx, the project lead animators, he showed uncomparable potential and development in terms of his skills. His versatiltiy was also proven since he was responsible in correcting several mistakes of his groupmates when it comes to rejected in-between frames. He is also a self-learned member of the group that pursued to master another animation program aside from the old program they were taught in their course which proved to be beneficial in making their project more innovative and dynamic. Night and day, Aladin braved the storm of difficulties in making the first Ilonggo animated short film for almost 60 days. Then finally, on January 25 this year, his heart was overwhelming with happiness when they launched The BEQUEST at SM Cinema 7 witnessed by more than 500 spectators and a weeklong successful animation exhibit at SM City Iloilo lower ground floor. Taking their feat selflessly, they made the people of Iloilo proud of their achievement as a group. This year, Aladin prepares himself for another round of challenge and proving that talent counts most in their journey to follow their passion.

Who would have thought that a small-time artist and a part-time fisherman from the humble town of Miag-ao, Iloilo can contribute something BIG in making a new cultural phenomenon for the Ilonggos? Let’s have a little chat with him…

Ronelo Ladiao (RL): Who is the real Aladin Lacsina?
Aladin Lacsina (AL): Ako nga klase sang tawo nga masaligan, mahipuson, God-fearing kag maayo sang tagipusuon. Kon may ginaobra ako, ginatapos kag ginadidikaran ko guid. (I’m a type of person who can be trusted, silent, God-fearing and goodhearted. If I am doing something, I try to finish and dedicate myself to it).
RL: Tell us your ambition when you were a kid and does it matter if you fulfilled it now?
AL: I want to become an army when I was a boy but when I dedicate myself in arts, I learned to love this kind of job. Siguro, mas masadya ako bilang animator subong pero kon may chansa man lang maayo man mangin army ako (Maybe, I’m very much happy as animator right now but if I’ll be given a chance it would be okay to become an army).
RL: Since you're an animator, can you share your most favorite animated film or TV series?
AL: Madamo man ko sang gusto nga cartoons (I have lots of favorite cartoons). But my most favorite animated cartoon and animated film is The Avatar and Walt Disney’s Tarzan. In Tarzan, I like the fighting scenes and the way it is drawn to make it more exciting.
RL: Who influenced you to draw and how young were you when you started to draw?
AL: Halin sang gamay ko siguro mga lima ka tuig ako nagsugod drawing. Halos tanan ko nga mga pakaisahan kag utod nga lalaki sagad man magdrawing. (Since I was young, maybe, I was five years old when I started to draw. Almost all of my cousins and brothers are good in drawing). I think art rans in our blood.
RL: What kind of art tools you like to use in drawing and did you attend any formal art training before?
AL: Sang una nagstart gid ako gamit sang lapis eh. Pagkatapos nakabalo man ako magamit sang watercolor, oil pastel kag oil paint sang high school asta sang ulihi nga nagapangobra na ako freelance artworks. (Before I started to use pencil. Later I learned to use watercolor, oil pastel and oil paint in high school until I started to work for some freelance artworks).
RL: What are the most important lessons you’ve learned in your training in 2D animation?
AL: Damo gid ako nabaton nga corrections halin sa akon maestro sang una. Natun-an ko nga natural gid ang corrections bilang animator nga tani sa sunod dapat magimprove pa gid ang obra ko. Natun-an ko man nga magpasensiya kay bisan may talento ako kulang pa gid ini para magin maayo nga animator. Dapat indi kami mag-untat praktis sa pagdrawing. (I recieved a lot of corrections from my teacher before. I learned that corrections are natural as an animator that the next time around I should try to improve my work. I also learned to be patient because even if I have the talent it’s not enough to become a good animator. We shouldn’t stop practising in drawing).
RL: Tell us about your original animated character that you called “Samuragi” in Kuris Universe?
AL: Well, Samuragi is destined to become a powerful Samurai and a master swordsman who can command elemental forces through his sword. He is half-Filipino and half-Japanese. He started as a simple provincial boy who discovered his dead father’s samurai sword which was told by town folks as mystical because it can control elements like thunder, lighting, wind or rain. When he found his mother’s dead body in their home that was killed by a group of unknown men wanting to have his father’s samurai, he vowed to take vengeance and promised to protect innocent people. His adventure will bring him to his final destiny as a powerful samurai.
RL: Aside from being an artist and animator, do you have other skills or field of interest?
AL: Mahilig gid ako sa sports pareho sang boxing kag kickboxing sang high school kag college (I’m fond of sports like boxing and kickboxing during my high school and college days). I also engage in farming, fishing and carpentry to earn a living.
RL: Why should Ilonggos support the trend of animation?
AL: Siyempre paagi man ini nga mapakita kag mapamatud-an nga ang mga Ilonggo artists may abilidad sa animation. Ang BEQUEST isa na ka pamatuod nga may ara man kita capasidad nga makaobra sang maayo nga animation (Of course, this is one way to show and prove that Ilonggo artists have ablilities in animation. The BEQUEST is one proof that we have the capacity to make good animation). We should try our best to help fulfill the dream of many Ilonggos who wants to become animators.
RL:If you were to compare your group “Kuris” as a fish, what would it be and why?
AL: Siguro, kami nga mga Kuris animators pareho sang “Dolphins” kay mabinuligon. Gusto namon ginashare ang amon naman-an sa iban pa nga gusto mangin animator, may maayo kami nga handum kag gabinuligay kami sa tanan nga oras (Maybe, we Kuris animators are like Dolphines because we are helpful. We want to share our knowledge to those who wanted to become animators, we have good dreams and we try to help each other at all times).

For comments, email us at kurisanimators@yahoo.com