Philippines — September 19, 2025 | Mulave Academy successfully held its fourth cohort event, “Character Design for Animation Workshop,” at Room 309, CCI Building, Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) Main Campus.
The workshop gathered 31 aspiring character designers eager to learn from the renowned Bobby Pontillas, an acclaimed animator and character designer known for his work in world-class studios.
During the session, Bobby shared his inspiring journey in the animation industry and offered valuable insights into the art of character design. He emphasized the importance of building personality into characters and creating an emotional connection with audiences. Beyond his creative process, Bobby also shared heartfelt advice on working in studio environments, balancing personal and professional life, and staying motivated in the ever-evolving animation field.
In the afternoon session, participants engaged in a “Character Show and Tell” activity, where they showcased their designs and applied what they learned—from mastering shape language to developing unique personas inspired by animals such as elephants, felines, and platypuses. With Bobby’s guidance, participants explored the limitless possibilities of character creation, gaining a new perspective on creativity and storytelling in animation.
This workshop marks another milestone for Mulave Academy in nurturing the next generation of creative talents and empowering aspiring artists to bring their characters to life through design and imagination.
Who is Bobby Pontillas?
Bobby Pontillas is a Filipino-American Oscar-nominated animation Director who has worked with well-known Animated Movies such as Frozen, Wreck it Ralph, Zootopia, Rio, Moana, and Big Hero 6. He is also a co-founder of Rise Up Animation— an organization comprised of animation industry professionals dedicated to providing feedback, resources, and education to BIPOC around the world.[1]
Currently, Bobby Pontillas is the ongoing Director of the 2d Animated Adventure Series — Sun Chaser. Sun Chaser is a fantasy adventure rooted in Filipino mythology and magic. The animated series follows Jordan Santos, an unassuming teen whose chill summer in the Philippines takes a wild turn when a supernatural threat plunges his island into chaos. Sun Chaser dives into the awakening of ancient powers and uncovering of long-buried family secrets to which Jordan must answer to the call of legacy which he never knew he had— protecting the rift between the human and spirit worlds. As it was described, Sun Chaser is a story about discovering who you are, and what you’re meant to become.[2]
Tune in to Future Workshops with Mulave Academy! Let’s shape the creative industries of tomorrow in our pace and in our time!
