EPISODE 5

Merging Mediums and Staying Agile in an Evolving Media Landscape

Featuring Martin Thoburn, Filmmaker & Creative Director

Multimedia artist and designer Martin Thoburn joins the podcast to discuss how curiosity has driven his diverse career. With a background spanning graphic design, motion graphics, animation, filmmaking, and projection mapping, Martin shares his unconventional journey from film and mixed media experimentation, to a career in corporate work.

"Find yourself before you
commit to college.”
-Martin

Key takeaways from this episode

  1. The Power of Creative Exploration

    • Martin’s early exposure to digital tools—like MacPaint and VHS camcorders—inspired his love for creative technology.

    • His passion for experimenting with different mediums led him to study graphic design, animation, and video production.

    2. Learning by Doing

    • Martin emphasizes that real-world experience is invaluable. He encourages young creatives to take advantage of community college programs, workshops, and self-driven learning before committing to expensive degrees.

    • His own career path included studying at Washtenaw Community College, Columbia College Chicago, and the College for Creative Studies, with lots of hands-on experience in between.

    3. Work for Free, Work for Full Price, Never for Cheap

    • A crucial piece of advice for freelancers:

      • If you’re still learning, take on passion projects for free.

      • Once you have the skills, charge full price—don’t undervalue your work.

      • Avoid working for “cheap” rates, as it undercuts both your value and the industry.

4. Adapting to Industry Shifts

  • The creative industry is evolving rapidly with AI and automation reshaping workflows. Tasks like storyboarding, noise reduction, and asset generation can now be done faster—but pricing and market expectations are still adjusting.

  • Creatives must stay ahead by mastering tools that increase efficiency while maintaining high-quality craftsmanship.

5. Going Viral & Building a Career

  • Martin’s film Frames went viral in the early days of Vimeo, launching his freelance career. He strategically promoted it by personally reaching out to Vimeo staff and animation communities.

  • His success underscores the importance of strategic self-promotion and having a strong portfolio to attract work opportunities.

6. Finding Your Place in the Industry

  • Martin discusses how mid-level creative work is shrinking, with content shifting towards high-budget productions or rapid, low-cost social media content.

  • Creatives today should consider where they want to position themselves: high-end production, specialized niche markets, or fast-turnaround social content.

Show Notes & Resources