Bahrain Confidential explores the mind of Snej Mommsen, the artist behind BluBear Animation.
Tell us more about BluBear Animation, how did it come about?
To have my own motion design studio has been a huge dream of mine for as long as I remember. Growing up in Bahrain I continued to work on my art, inspired by the complex and vast world of animation. I took the opportunity to develop my skills further in England, where I received my degree in animation. During my time there I learned to appreciate the complexity of this craft, the limitless possibilities of design and how I can use the creative elements to tell a story effectively. I was really inspired by the diversity of art styles, animation and design and I wanted to bring it back to Bahrain. BluBear was created with the intention of bringing that experience and knowledge here.
I find that the majority of the time, when people hear the word ‘animation’, they immediately think of Disney, or the cartoons that they grew up with. However, motion design is incredibly versatile and multifunctional. It helps to create strong messages and relay them to a wider audience. It has the power to explain complex ideas in a short space of time in a clear and engaging manner, making people care about your message and share it within their social circle.
What do you think makes BluBear Animation stand out from the other design and branding companies?
Here at BluBear Animation we take the branding and design elements and we bring them to life through the use of carefully selected use of colour and motion design. There is far more to animation that moving an element from point A to point B. A lot of thought and consideration goes into the motion design, so it reinforces the brand image and accentuates the design elements.
All of the design elements are made from scratch, specifically tailored to each individual project and client requirements, and therefore I stay away from the use of templates. Whether the project is big or small, I like to go the extra mile when it comes to the final look & feel of the video. I focus on the design choices and how does the chosen style enhance the message and support the story visually. However, I also appreciate the tight deadlines that the majority of our clients have, and I put in 110% to meet those tight deadlines.
When it comes to the style of animation, I choose not to stick to one. It is all about the client and what would work best for their specific project. Therefore, the client has more choice and more room to make their video more unique. Videos are growing in popularity over static images, so it’s important to create content that will captivate and entertain your audience, and make your business, brand, product or service stand out from the rest.
Of all the projects that you’ve worked on, which one are you proudest of and why?
I have a lot of pride in all of my projects, because each video is very unique and requires so much creative input. However, if I had to pick one, it would be the seven-minute animated training video I’ve completed for City Centre Bahrain. It required a large range of design elements and unique colour combinations for various sections that were carefully considered in effort to enhance the script. The chosen style of the design and the overall look of the animation was also carefully considered as it had to be clear, coherent and most importantly- visually articulate what was being said in the script. It was both designed to be simple and clear enough to get its message across, as well as entertaining and aesthetically pleasing.
Due to the length of this video, it was crucial that all of those elements complimented each other and were consistent throughout. This project was both challenging and incredibly fun to work on.
What services do you offer aside from animation?
BluBear Animation offers a large variety of motion design services, but it also offers a wide range of illustration and design! I love experimenting with various graphic styles and techniques, offering artwork created in both photoshop and illustrator. I am passionate about creating beautiful and unique character designs in any style that the client may require. I have recently illustrated a kids book, which is due to be released in the United Kingdom by the end of the year.
For more information:
Level 22, West Tower, Bahrain Financial Harbour
∀ www.blubear.net
+ snej@blubear.net
BluBear_bh