Communication On some level, art is communication. The artist creates a visual element that conveys complex ideas, emotions, and concepts. Therefore, learning good communication skills is essential for an artist. Communication also requires creativity. Negotiating difficult deals and addressing conflict depend on creative problem solving skills.

Animators are called upon even more to be solid communicators because of the nature of their job. An animator renders stories into visual form. Storytelling is a form of communication. An animator who can communicate well is one who can convey the story arcs and dialog in ways that are memorable and meaningful to the audience. On a more practical level, animators work with people as a matter of course throughout their job. Whereas a painter could be holed up in a studio for six months out of the year, never talking to anyone, an animator will rarely live an isolated lifestyle. Communication is part of the animator's daily duties. The animator will usually have supervisors or program managers, and...

Raising grievances in the workplace must be done with grace and tact. When communicating with other colleagues, animators need to communicate effectively, too. Listening to what coworkers have to say, listening to criticism, and developing empathy are the most important communication skills an animator can learn (Scott).
The development of self-confidence is the most salient facet of good communication ("Effective Communication Skills: The Art of Communication"). Without confidence, it is impossible to express oneself genuinely and fully. This is true in terms of artistic expression but also expression as a professional. An artist or animator especially needs self-confidence to express herself or himself. Without confidence, the artwork is likely to come out poorly. Confidence releases inhibitions and makes for stellar, vibrant work that gets recognized.

Likewise, the artist needs to be confident when speaking with others. An animator needs to feel comfortable pitching ideas, or selling…