Joel grew up inspired by the mixed media animation of the 90s & early 2000s. He obtained a BFA in Animation where he created 3 traditionally animated short films. Continuing his education, Joel obtained a Special Effects Certificate, and completed the Character Animation Courses with Animation Mentor. Joel was a TA with the New York Film Academy at Harvard University, and served as an Animation Mentor Student Tutor. Joel enjoys creating independent animations, attending Animation Conventions, traveling, hiking, and exploring ALL artistic mediums: drawing (pastel, charcoal, pencils, ink), painting (oil, acrylic, ceramic-underglaze), murals, wood-carving, acting, and directing theater.