Arcs

Term from Animation Storyboarding industry explained for recruiters

Arcs are storytelling paths that show how characters or stories develop over time in animation. Think of them as road maps that guide how a character grows, changes, or moves through a story. In animation storyboarding, artists use arcs to plan out both emotional journeys (like a character learning a lesson) and physical movements (like how a character jumps or moves). When someone mentions arcs in their animation experience, they're talking about their ability to plan and visualize these story and movement paths that make animations feel natural and engaging.

Examples in Resumes

Developed character arcs and emotional journeys for main characters in animated series

Created compelling story arcs across 12-episode animated season

Planned movement arcs and character transitions for action sequences

Typical job title: "Storyboard Artists"

Also try searching for:

Animation Artist Character Designer Storyboard Artist Animation Director Visual Development Artist Story Artist Layout Artist

Where to Find Storyboard Artists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach planning complex character arcs across a full season of animation?

Expected Answer: A senior artist should explain their process for mapping out long-term character development, considering multiple storylines, and ensuring consistent character growth while maintaining audience engagement.

Q: How do you mentor junior artists in understanding and implementing both emotional and physical arcs?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership ability and explain methods for teaching others about story structure, character development, and the technical aspects of movement arcs in animation.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you balance multiple character arcs in a single story sequence?

Expected Answer: Should explain their approach to managing multiple character storylines, ensuring each character has clear development while maintaining story coherence.

Q: Describe how you would create movement arcs for a complex action sequence.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how to plan and execute movement paths that feel natural while maintaining visual interest and story flow.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a character arc?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the fundamental elements of character development: starting point, conflict, change, and resolution in simple terms.

Q: How do you use arcs to show character emotion in storyboarding?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of using visual storytelling to convey character feelings and development through simple arc structures.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of story structure
  • Simple character arc development
  • Basic movement arc planning
  • Understanding of storyboarding fundamentals

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Complex character development
  • Multiple storyline management
  • Advanced movement choreography
  • Emotional storytelling through arcs

Senior (5+ years)

  • Season-long arc planning
  • Team leadership and mentoring
  • Complex narrative structure design
  • Project management and direction

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic story structure
  • No understanding of character development
  • Lack of portfolio showing arc examples
  • No experience with visual storytelling
  • Cannot demonstrate understanding of movement in animation