Ester Dus
Q What do you do?
“I’m a Director and Motion Designer at Device, an animation studio with an international focus, where I create animated content primarily for advertising campaigns.”
My work involves leading teams of animators, overseeing the entire creative process—from storyboard to final execution—and ensuring the animations we create are engaging and aligned with the client’s vision. While I don’t do traditional animation myself at Device, since is not my main focus at the studio, I love animating and experimenting with character loops when freelancing for other studios and illustrator friends.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
My career path has been anything but linear. I didn’t study animation, design, or advertising, but those worlds always fascinated me. That curiosity is what pushed me to learn on my own, watching one After Effects tutorial after another. My first big role was in an ad agency, where I became a Motion Designer and Art Director. Over my four years there, I learned how to work under pressure, manage teams, and develop creative projects. Eventually, I decided to focus solely on animation and joined Device, where I continue to grow in that field.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I’d say I’m versatile and solution-oriented. My ability to adapt to different styles and work well with teams has helped me lead projects in a collaborative environment like Device. I also stand out by maintaining a strong focus on visual details and ensuring every project looks aesthetically polished.
Q What are you working on right now?
We’ve just launched a project for Louis Vuitton at Device —a series of five capsules dedicated to their perfumes, with a contemplative, visually rich anime-inspired aesthetic that plays with visual metaphors. I’m also waiting on a few freelance projects that I’m excited about and can’t wait to confirm and share. Lastly, I’m planning my first step into teaching with a course where we’ll explore animating mascots. It’s a new adventure that I’m looking forward to.
Q What’s your style?
In 2020, when the world slowed down, I got the closest to finding my style. I had time to reflect and figure out where I felt most comfortable creatively. Not long after that, I joined Device, a studio known for its multi-style approach, and I haven’t stopped since. Right now, I don’t think I’m defined by a specific graphic style, but I always aim for delicacy and an attention to detail in every project I work on. It’s something I try to leave my mark on with each piece.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
In addition to continuing to experiment with new animation techniques, I’d love to spend more time diving into illustration. I’ve always focused more on motion design since I mostly work with vectors, but loosening up and becoming more confident with freehand drawing intimidates me. I tend to overthink it, and I feel that getting over my fear of illustration could help me grow creatively.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Right now, what frustrates me most is not having enough time for personal projects. Between my work at Device and freelance gigs, it’s hard to find time to develop new ideas and experiment.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I’d have them help with admin tasks: emails, budgeting, and scheduling, so I can focus more on the creative side.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
At six years old, I’d tell myself to stop being so stubborn and let my mom sign me up for drawing classes—that I would actually enjoy it and that I don’t have to learn everything on my own. I didn’t want to turn something I loved into another extracurricular activity or homework. Plus, I thought if I took classes, I’d have to be "the best," which set expectations so high that I ended up freezing.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
I’d love to talk to experts in experimental animation or mixed media techniques to explore new ways of visual storytelling.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
For day-to-day work, I’m looking to support design studios or illustrators who need someone they can trust to animate their brands, logos, or mascots. I’m focused on clear, straightforward projects that are concrete and to the point.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
I’d be thrilled to direct an animated music video for a band or singer I connect with—something where I can experiment creatively and make something we both love.
Q: What is your rate?
My day rate is $350–450/day, depending on the complexity of the project, the urgency of the services, or if the work requires weekends/holidays. I’m happy to offer a discount for artistic collaborations, non-profit projects, or clients who offer a bundle of projects over a set period of time.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
You can reach me via email at work@esterdus.com or through my website www.esterdus.com. I appreciate messages that include a clear project description, a rough budget, and, if possible some references they love.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
I recommend Paula de Álvaro and Anna Mills as creative references. I love how they work with composition, typography, and how they push boundaries by experimenting and setting trends.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Stepping away from screens. Walking to work, hitting the gym, and reading a graphic novel.
This member profile was originally published in October 2024.