Mike Kunkel
About Mike Kunkel
Mike Kunkel is a Supervising Director at Sesame Workshop, with extensive experience in animation, character design, and story development across major studios such as Disney, DreamWorks, and Warner Bros. He has contributed to notable projects including 'Hercules', 'Tarzan', and the Cartoon Network show 'The Life and Times of Juniper Lee'.
Current Role at Sesame Workshop
Mike Kunkel serves as the Supervising Director at Sesame Workshop, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he oversees various projects and initiatives, contributing his extensive experience in animation and storytelling. His leadership at Sesame Workshop reflects his commitment to creating engaging content for audiences.
Previous Experience in Animation
Kunkel has a diverse background in animation, having worked with several prominent studios. His tenure includes roles as a Story Artist at Sony Pictures Animation, DreamWorks Animation, and Netflix. He also held directorial positions at Wild Canary Animation and Universal Pictures. His experience spans over two decades, showcasing his versatility in various capacities within the animation industry.
Education and Instructional Role
In addition to his professional work, Mike Kunkel has been an instructor at Animation Mentor since 2015. This role allows him to share his knowledge and expertise in animation with aspiring artists. He emphasizes continuous learning and development, reflecting his belief in the importance of education in the creative field.
Notable Contributions to Animation
Kunkel has made significant contributions to various animated projects, including the creation of the character Swampy for Disney's 'Where's My Water?' app game. He has also worked on well-known animated films and series such as 'Hercules', 'Tarzan', and 'Cats Don't Dance'. His involvement in these projects highlights his skills in character design and story development.
Collaborations with Major Studios
Throughout his career, Mike Kunkel has collaborated with major animation studios, including Walt Disney Productions, Universal Pictures, and Warner Brothers. His work has spanned various roles, from story development to character design, contributing to popular series such as 'Dilbert' and 'Dora the Explorer'. His extensive network and experience in the industry underscore his professional reputation.