Kemer Stevenson is a highly accomplished and dynamic leader in the field of computer animation and visual effects, with nearly two decades of experience spanning an impressive range of projects and roles. Currently serving as the Head of Character Effects at Disney Animation, Kemer expertly manages large teams of artists, overseeing Hair & Cloth Setup and Simulation. His ability to lead and inspire teams, navigate complex challenges, and drive innovation has been a hallmark of his career.

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Throughout his tenure, Kemer has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to and excel in a wide variety of project styles, from live-action and photo-real to painterly and stylized 2D-inspired aesthetics. His keen understanding of the entire production pipeline, coupled with his strong interpersonal skills, enables him to foster seamless collaboration and partnerships across departments, including Modeling, Rigging, Look Development, Grooming, and FX.

 

Prior to his current role at Disney, Kemer made significant contributions at Blur Studio, where he honed his skills in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment. His tenure at Blur was marked by numerous notable accomplishments, including transitioning multiple departments to new software, implementing efficient pipelines, and improving simulation speed and turnaround by over 65%. Kemer's experience at Blur is a testament to his resilience, resourcefulness, and ability to drive results in challenging circumstances.

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Kemer's impact extends beyond Blur Studio, with his work at DreamWorks showcasing his expertise in tool and pipeline development. He played a key role in integrating grooming into the CFX department and contributed to the development of Willow and Whip, the studio's proprietary Houdini-based grooming and simulation software.

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With a diverse skill set encompassing both asset and shot production, as well as a deep understanding of various departments' workflows, Kemer brings a unique perspective to his work. His leadership abilities, coupled with his extensive experience collaborating with directors, production designers, and art directors, make him an invaluable asset to any creative team.

 

As Kemer continues to push the boundaries of his craft and inspire the next generation of artists through his mentorship and teaching, he remains dedicated to his passion for computer animation and visual effects. With his expertise and track record of success, there is no doubt that Kemer Stevenson will continue to make significant contributions to the industry.