Paul Briggs ('96 Illustration)
Disney + Netflix
Paul Briggs, a Texas native and Kansas City Art Institute alumnus, has carved a remarkable path through the animation industry over a career spanning more than 25 years.
"Don't give up that passion of making art. That's a superpower you have. And don't let that superpower go to waste."
He began as a story artist on Mulan and has since contributed his talents to major studios, including Warner Bros, Nickelodeon, and Walt Disney Animation Studios. At Disney, he became known as Head of Story for iconic films like Frozen, Big Hero 6, Zootopia, and Raya and the Last Dragon.
Recently, he transitioned to Netflix Feature Animation, taking on a new role as a director and developing an upcoming project.
Briggs has explored creative projects in children’s books, furniture, and tiki mug design, showcasing his versatile artistic spirit. In the fall of 2024, he returned to KCAI as a Professional Practice Center Visiting Artist, meeting with students, offering critiques, and sharing insights into his evolving career.
He credits KCAI as foundational to his artistic philosophy, nurturing his creative impulses and shaping his distinctive approach to storytelling, which he believes blends character depth with compelling narratives.
Briggs encourages students to embrace risk, learn from mistakes, and pursue the art that truly resonates with them. His journey from art student to industry leader exemplifies a commitment to both craft and creativity, continuously pushing boundaries in animation and beyond.
