– Neurodiverse talent in the animation industry is becoming more visible and recognized, particularly in the context of Autism Awareness Month.
– The article features interviews with various neurodiverse individuals working in animation, from television creators to popular YouTube animators with millions of viewers to acclaimed directors.
– The spotlight this time is on Zachariah OHora, the creator of Carl the Collector.
– Skwigly Animation Magazine hosts these interviews and stories to push for more representation and awareness in the industry.
From the Spectrum to the Screen: Neurodiverse Talent in Animation Shines
Animation Spotlight: Zachariah OHora and the Creation of ‘Carl the Collector’
Autism Awareness in Animation: A Skwigly Animation Magazine Initiative
In light of the above, it’s clear that the animation industry is zooming in on the colourful kaleidoscope that is neurodiversity. About time, too! At the centre of this rainbow revolution is none other than Zachariah OHora, creator of ‘Carl the Collector’. If you haven’t come across Carl yet, he’s probably busy collecting your overdue attention to this blazing ball of talent right here. Skwigly Animation Magazine is leading the way in featuring these gem-like talents, because let’s be real, lack of representation is so…2D. The animation world is three-dimensional after all; we may as well celebrate all its facets. Let’s keep pushing until every shade in the spectrum of brain functionality shines on the animation stage. Here’s to Autism Awareness Month and the art of animation, two “A’s” that we all need in our report card of life!
Returning for Autism Awareness Month, I had the opportunity to interview several unique individuals within the animation industry that live with neurodiversity. From creators of renowned TV shows, wildly popular YouTube animators, to prestigious film directors, I am excited to share these inspiring stories from diverse minds.
In this year’s line-up, we had the pleasure of interviewing Zachariah O’Hara, a celebrated illustrator and writer who debuted his first animated series for PBS Kids last year, Carl the Collector. In our interview, Zachariah went in depth on the creation of Carl, a raccoon with autism, as well as discussing the show’s reception and the experience of working in a mixed neurodiverse and neurotypical team.
Zachariah O’Hara (Image Credits: Fuzzytown Productions)
From Author to Animator: The Journey of Zachariah O’Hara
Zachariah discusses how the switch from illustrating picture books to creating animations seemed natural; blending character development and storytelling aspects. Over a span of 10 years, Zachariah gradually immersed himself in the animation industry, familiarizing himself with the different roles and processes within the sector.
The Making of Carl the Collector: Inspiration & Journey
According to Zachariah, the show’s narrative centres on an autistic raccoon who loves collecting various objects. The idea for the show stemmed from Zachariah’s personal interest in woodland creatures and collecting items, as well as his sons’ experiences in an inclusive school.
The Heart Behind an Autistic Protagonist
When asked about the decision to feature an autistic character at the helm, Zachariah stated that it fulfilled a need in children’s television and media. Years later this statement still rings true. He states that at the time, most neurotypical individuals had little understanding of autism unless they had a personal connection to someone who was neurodiverse.
Capture from Carl The Collector. Courtesy of Spiffy Pictures/PBS KIDS
Collaborating with a Diverse Cast and Crew: A Learning Experience
Zachariah shares his enlightening journey working with a diverse team of talents, including voice actors and consultants on the autism spectrum. He cites how important it was to have neurodiverse voices throughout the production, which produced charismatic storytelling that resonated with authenticity.
Aside from AJ from Hero Elementary and Julia from Sesame Street, why does PBS Kids need Carl and Lotta?
In an ever-evolving storytelling landscape, Zachariah asserts the need for more lead characters that represent the rich spectrum of autism. By testing his characters, he pointed out the need for another character from the spectrum to emphasize the diversity of experiences emanating from it.
Addressing the Elephant in the Room: Anxiety and Autism
Zachariah shares that the show is not just about neurodiversity, but the universal experience of kids navigating through life, learning about sharing, dealing with disappointments, and other aspects of socialization. The lockdown and the advent of digital interfacing have added more facets to consider in the show.
Audience Reception: Local and Global Perspectives
When it comes to audience reception, Zachariah expresses that the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The show has been especially impactful in helping families and communities understand and initiate conversations about neurodiversity.
From his Upcoming Projects to the Future of Carl the Collector
Zachariah reveals exciting plans for his future book projects while also reporting new episodes for Carl the Collector due to premiere in 2026. Not just more stories, we’ll see more characters, all geared towards ever more voices of neurodiversity.
Image sourced from Spiffy Pictures/PBS KIDS
Carl the Collector is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video for UK audiences, and PBS Kids for those in the US.
Original article: https://www.skwigly.co.uk/autism-awareness-month-interview-with-zachariah-ohora-creator-of-carl-the-collector/