1. Brian Kesinger: American Illustrator and Animator
2. Stylistic Influences and Work at Disney
3. Annie Award and Oscar Nomination
4. Beyond Disney: Steampunk Creations and "Tea Girls"
5. "Walking Your Octopus" and the Anthropomorphic Octopus
6. Steampunk Crossover and Animated Film Aspirations

Brian Kesinger: American Illustrator and Animator

Early Life and Disney Beginnings

Born into a family of musicians, Brian Kesinger was the only one who couldn't play an instrument. However, his passion for art led him to embark on a unique journey. Despite being a high school senior, he was accepted into the prestigious Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, becoming their youngest animator at just 18 years old in 1996. Kesinger started as a layout artist for the animated film "Tarzan," setting the groundwork for a multifaceted career in Disney animation.

Stylistic Influences and Work at Disney

Influenced by Victorian art and steampunk aesthetics, Kesinger's work at Disney spanned a diverse range of films, including "Lilo & Stitch," "Chicken Little," "Meet the Robinsons," "Winnie the Pooh," and "Bolt." His love for underwater vehicles, gears, and gadgets ignited during his work on "Atlantis: The Lost Empire." Similarly, his involvement in "Treasure Planet" sparked his fascination with sailing ships and science fiction.

Annie Award and Oscar Nomination

In 2011, Kesinger received an Annie Award for his exceptional contributions to the industry. Notably, his final work at Disney, "Wreck-It Ralph," earned an Academy Award nomination. Kesinger's vocal talents also graced the film, as he voiced the character Kano from the Mortal Kombat franchise.

Beyond Disney: Steampunk Creations and "Tea Girls"

Outside the realm of Disney, Kesinger creates fantastical steampunk worlds inhabited by captivating characters known as the "Tea Girls." These illustrations, crafted using a blend of tea stains, ink, and watercolors, depict the adventures of Victoria Pimm, an independent young woman, and Otto, her sentient octopus companion.

"Walking Your Octopus" and the Anthropomorphic Octopus

Kesinger's affinity for octopuses inspired his first illustrated book, "Walking Your Octopus: A Guide to the Domesticated Cephalopod." The story draws inspiration from his dog, Scout, as well as his wife and children. Aiming for a broad audience, he shares, "I hope the book appeals to not only steampunk fans but to pet owners and parents as well."

Steampunk Crossover and Animated Film Aspirations

Known for his creative mashups, Kesinger's "Star Wars"/Calvin & Hobbes crossover depicts Kylo Ren and Darth Vader as the iconic comic characters. The popularity of Otto and Victoria has fueled fan art, tattoos, and cosplay, inspiring Kesinger to pursue a feature-length animated film featuring their steampunk adventures.

Animator