DIRECTOR | ANIMATOR| ILLUSTRATOR | PROFESSOR
I LOVE ANIMATION, CHARACTER DESIGN AND CATS.
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We all know the phrase “A Jack of all trades is a master of none” But did you know there is a second part? “But oftentimes better than a master of one.” I jump between all forms of animation to find the best visual language for every story. I love connecting the dots between animation techniques and figuring out which combination breathes life into an idea or character.
ABOUT
I’m a 2D, 3D and motion graphics animator based in NY’s Hudson Valley region. I am an Associate Professor of Animation at William Paterson University. I have a BFA in Digital Arts from Cleveland Institute of Art and an MFA from the School of Visual Arts.
I am a freelance animator and motion designer for a variety of studios around the greater NYC Area, working with clients like Sesame Street, Nissan, Nivea, American Express, JBL, Red Bull and more. Highlights include animating the title sequence for Can You Keep A Secret? (2019) as well as producing, directing and serving as lead animator on a one-minute animated short for Season 54, Episode 29: “Brave Bessie By Brave Gabrielle” which follows a dog walker getting five dogs ready for a walk in the park.
I am also an independent filmmaker. My newest short: Sundays (2026) recently premiered at Sarasota Film Festival and is making its way through a variety of festivals across the US and Canada, with more to come!
Lastly, I am also a Co-Lead for WIA’s NYC Chapter where I have moderated panels, helped run a variety events and mixers, and have founded the WIA NYC Animation Festival. I will be directing its third edition this November!
SOCIALS:
INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/gerstburst
LINKEDIN: linkedin.com/in/ashleygerst