Introducing Trevor Deane-Freeman: a talented animator, storyboard artist, series director, rock-climber, rower, dog-dad – and current the director of Dino Ranch Season II.

Trevor has been delighting audiences with his skillful animation work for over 25 years, and is known for his animation work on many children’s films, series and commercials. You can catch his work in Osmosis Jones, Eight Crazy Nights, Gnomeo & Juliet, The Nut Job, The Little Prince, Troll Hunters, and more. Trevor worked as Storyboard Supervisor before stepping in to co-direct 17 episodes of IB’s own Remy & Boo, then went on to co-direct on season 1 of Daniel Spellbound, and directed season 2.

Get to know a bit more about this powerhouse animator below!

What inspired you to work in animation?
I always enjoyed drawing and loved cartoons and animated movies, then at 16 I came across a book, Tony White’s ‘The Animators Handbook’ and realized it was actually something you could do as a career and I have been pursuing it ever since.

What is your favourite thing about what you do?
I have two: I love working on stories and trying to visualize them, and working with all the amazing and talented people I get to see create these awesome things.

Are there any creative disciplines that you do in your spare time? Tell us about it a bit.
I don’t really do my own art in my spare time. I have always been focused on each of the productions I have worked on, just trying to do a good job. In my spare time I like to get outside and probably watch a bit too much TV, but in my defence, there are a lot of great shows out there (like Brooklyn 99 which my daughter and I have watched in its entirety twice).

Do you have a tip or piece of advice for aspiring animators/storyboard artists?
Focus on learning and getting better. Make goals for yourself so you know what you are working towards.

What is a ‘fun fact’ about you that most people don’t know? 
I just competed in the Canadian National Indoor Rowing Championships. Relax, you only need to sign up, pay a fee, and you can compete without any other prerequisites. I also did rather poorly, but it was fun. I used to row competitively though in many boats from 8 sweeps to single sculling when I was a bit younger, and liked getting up at 5am every morning. I also used to climb up to 13a on sport climbs indoors and 12c outdoors.

Currently though, I have a family and a new dog which is pretty time consuming, so I am enjoying all that brings into my days.

What is your favourite episode of Daniel Spellbound?
Episode 10, of Season 1 – “Hold On Tight”, the final episode in the first season is full of epic animation and storyline action.