Prasansook "Fawn" Veerasunthorn is a Thai film director and animator. She worked as a storyboard artist on the Disney Animation films Frozen, Moana, and Zootopia and as head of story on Raya and the Last Dragon. Her first feature film was Disney's Wish, in collaboration with Chris Buck.
This episode delves into Fawn's transformative journey upon relocating to the US, navigating the hurdles of language barriers and cultural disparities. Despite these challenges, she found solace and purpose in her passion for art, propelling her forward on the path to becoming an animator and director for Disney projects.
Fawn Veerasunthorn, born in Chonburi Province, Thailand, found her calling in art from a young age, inspired by the magic of Disney's "Dumbo," particularly the work of Mary Blair. After attending Triam Udom Suksa School in Bangkok, Fawn pursued medicine at Mahidol University but soon realized her true passion lay in fine arts. Encouraged by animator Paitoon Ratanasiritrawoot, she made the bold decision to move to the United States and study at the Columbus College of Art and Design.
Upon graduating in 2004, Fawn embarked on a remarkable journey in the animation industry, working at esteemed studios such as 6 Point Harness, Warner Bros. Animation, Nickelodeon Animation Studios, and Illumination. Her talent as a story artist shone through in projects like "The Lorax" and "Despicable Me 2."
In 2011, Fawn joined Walt Disney Animation Studios, contributing her skills to blockbuster hits like "Frozen," "Moana," and "Zootopia." Her exceptional work led to her promotion as head of Disney's animation department and her pivotal role as head of story on "Raya and the Last Dragon."
Fawn's achievements reached new heights when she was appointed as co-director of Disney's upcoming film "Wish," making history as the first Thai artist to helm a Disney animated feature. Her contributions to the industry have been recognized by both Disney and the Government of Thailand, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in animation.
Inspiring Aspiring Filmakers | 3x12
Mother and Son’s Journey of a Thousand Miles | 3x11
The Beauty of Dance | 3x10
Making Changes for the Better | 3x9
Never Too Late To Change | 3x8
Balancing Life as Attorney and Music Teacher | 3x7
Developing Asian Theater | 3x6
Pushing Through Challenges | 3x5
Building Your Own Brand | 3x4
Building UpThe Film Community
The Power of Voice in Comedy
Diversifying Directors | 3x1
Ashlyn So: A Prodigy’s Passions for Fashion and Activism │ 2x40
Pushing Away from the Periphery in Film with Dan Chen │ 2x39
Chris Chan Lee: A Pioneer of Asian American Cinema │ 2x38
Breaking Barriers for AAPI in the Air │ 2x37
Empowerment through Humor with Jiaoying Summers │ 2x36
Sharing Perspectives through Film with Sami Khan │ 2x35
Coming Full Circle to Serve our Country │ 2x34
A #VeryAsian Conversation with Michelle Li │ 2x33
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