Member Profile: Mario Escobar
1. What do you do, and how long have you been doing it?
I work as the Academic Head of the B.A. in Digital Animation and Interactive Design and the B.A. in Graphic Design at the Central American Technological University (UNITEC) in Honduras.
Additionally, I lead the animation and interactive development studio HanimalVFX
2. What was your first job?
My first job was as a video editor and post-producer for TV advertising.
3. Where did you complete your formal education?
My alma mater is the same place where I work now (UNITEC), where I studied Audiovisual Communication. Later, I moved to Spain to specialize in animation at the ESDIP and Trazos art schools in Madrid
4. How did you first get involved with ACM SIGGRAPH?
Since I studied in Madrid nearly 20 years ago, SIGGRAPH was recognized as the most important space combining animation and interactivity. However, it wasn’t until a few years ago, in my current position, that I had the opportunity to participate in SIGGRAPH—first as a virtual attendee in Vancouver 2022, and then in person in Los Angeles 2023.
5. What is your favorite memory of a SIGGRAPH conference?
In 2024, I was awarded the Underrepresented Communities Travel Grant and participated in a panel with the other grantees. Meeting distinguished professionals and sharing perspectives in this space was incredibly enriching.
6. Describe a project that you would like to share with the ACM SIGGRAPH community.
Recently, the projects I am most proud of are those created by students I mentor. Some of these projects have received nominations at prominent regional festivals, and in 2024, a few were also presented at SIGGRAPH FSSW, an activity organized by the Education Committee.
7. If you could have dinner with one living or non-living person, who would it be and why?
I would like to have dinner with animator Bill Plympton. In addition to developing a unique style, he has been able to create incredible productions with small teams and modest budgets.
8. What is something most people don’t know about you?
In addition to working in animation, for several years I worked as a professional diver, primarily as an instructor, but especially combining audiovisual communication with this activity. This allowed me to explore different parts of the world and have unforgettable experiences.
9. From which single individual have you learned the most in your life? What did they teach you?
I wouldn’t be able to name just one person who has taught me the most. My parents have always been a great influence in my life. Then, my wife and professional partner, who has a personality very different from mine, has also taught me a lot. And now, my 3-year-old daughter constantly makes me grow and learn.
10. Is there someone in particular who has influenced your decision to work with ACM SIGGRAPH?
My motivation to work with SIGGRAPH comes from the desire to put Honduras on the map and to support all the highly motivated young people I teach.
11. What can you point to in your career as your proudest moment?
Being recognized as an outstanding professional and receiving the Siggraph Underrepresented Communities Travel Grant is definitely one of the highlights that makes me feel most proud. However, there have been many moments throughout my career that have brought me to this point, and they make me love what I do and keep moving forward. Initially, it was the projects I participated in or directed, but more recently, it has been supporting my students in reaching their potential, which is a continuous source of motivation.