A Legend’: Award-winning Portland animator Mark Gustafson dies at 63
Portland animator Mark Gustafson, best known for his work on Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, died on Thursday morning at the age of 63. Gustafson won an Oscar for co-directing the acclaimed animated film alongside del Toro. The news of Gustafson’s passing was shared by del Toro in an emotional social media post, where he described Gustafson as a pillar of stop-motion animation and a true artist. Gustafson’s contributions to the field of claymation were legendary and he served as an inspiration to animators worldwide.
Gustafson’s longtime studio, ShadowMachine, also paid tribute to the late animator, referring to him as a revered Academy Award-winning director who made a significant impact on the animation community in Portland over the past four decades. Throughout his career, Gustafson worked on various projects, including the beloved Claymation Christmas Celebration, Mr. Resistor, and Meet the Raisins! while employed at a Portland animation studio owned by the late animator Will Vinton.
In the early 2000s, Gustafson served as the animation director for Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox, a critically acclaimed stop-motion comedy film. Although the movie received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature in 2010, it did not win. However, Gustafson’s talent and dedication did not go unnoticed, as he eventually took home the Oscar in 2022 for his exceptional work on Pinocchio.
Gustafson’s achievements extended beyond the silver screen. He also received multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, Annie Awards, and a BAFTA throughout his career for his contributions to various shows and films. The impact of his artistry and talent cannot be overstated, and his loss has sent shockwaves throughout the animation community.
The exact cause of Gustafson’s death remains unknown, and his passing has deeply saddened both his colleagues and fans alike. ShadowMachine expressed their sorrow, stating that Gustafson’s unexpected departure is a tremendous loss not only for the animation community but for the entertainment industry as a whole. They further described him as a one-of-a-kind artist who will be profoundly missed.
Mark Gustafson’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through his groundbreaking work and the inspiration he provided to countless aspiring animators. His dedication to the field of stop-motion animation has left an indelible mark, making him a true legend in the industry. As the news of his passing spreads, tributes continue to pour in from those who were fortunate enough to witness his immense talent and extraordinary contributions to the world of animation.
