Up Close from a Distance

     Breaching Out is a short hand drawn and digital animation that depicts a journey of transformation through the perspective of a whale. I have a close connection with whales from spending time observing these animals on whale watching trips, and because they are mysterious animals. This story depicts a whale’s journey from a dark and lonely place into a place of colour and freedom. 

     The narration is my own voice and along with the setting, it helps to capture the emotions at the heart of this journey. Growing up, I went through a difficult process of understanding myself. I experienced lonely times on my path to self-love and self-acceptance.  My goal in making this animation is to help others understand a snippet of my thoughts and feelings. I was also motivated to create something positive in response to the increase of mental health awareness and loneliness. Nobody truly knows what is going on inside someone else’s mind until that person can say it aloud. I hope that this story brings comfort and helps us all relate to one another.