The Art ofAnimation

I’m Manuela Montoya, a Colombian 3D Animator & Director based in the Bay Area, California.
I’m deeply devoted to the craft of storytelling, creating emotional, visually rich worlds that explore the fragile, beautiful complexity of the human experience.

Read My Full Story
Headshot of a woman with long, dark, wavy hair wearing a white textured jacket with decorative buttons, earrings, and light makeup, standing against a plain white background.

My work

Created during my time at AnimSchool’s 3D Animation Program, this body of work reflects not only my technical training but also my deep fascination with storytelling through performance.

Hidden Melody

“Hidden Melody” is a 5-minute animated short film about a shy ballerina in a music box, who dreams of becoming the greatest dancer in the antique shop. When an accident destroys her precious melody, she must summon the courage to step out of her comfort zone and pursue her dreams, even if it means dancing to a different beat.

🎥 Currently in the crowdfunding process, follow the journey and help bring this story to life.

Sketch of a ballerina in a tutu from front, side, and back views. The ballerina has a large bow on her waist and her hair styled in a braid with a ribbon.

Drawing by Claudia (Ga Hyung Kim)

Learn More!

How Can I Help You?

  • ⚜️Learn to Tell Emotional Stories

    Master the craft of animation storytelling, connect with industry pros, get noticed, and bring your stories to the big screen! You can schedule your free discovery call with me on the Write for Animation Academy website.

    Join the Write for Animation Academy and use the WFA25K code for a 20% off!

    Start Learning!

  • ⚜️Animate with Purpose

    Learn how to infuse authenticity and emotion into every movement. Whether you’re an animator or a storyteller, find your visual voice.

    Follow Me on Socials

  • ⚜️Build a Sustainable Creative Life

    Turn your artistic passion into something that sustains you — emotionally, professionally, and financially.

    Follow Me on Socials

Are you a creative seeking inspiration — or a collaborator looking to bring a story to life?
If you’re interested in working together, I’d love to connect!

Let's Collaborate!
Group of people at a Disney Pixar event, taking a selfie in front of a backdrop with Disney and Pixar logos, and 120 years of Disney Television Animation logo.

  • "At Write for Animation Academy, Manuela Montoya leads with passion and dedication, inspiring our community of storytellers. As our Community Manager, she hosts Feedback Friday sessions, guiding members with actionable insights to sharpen their craft, and supports panels with animation legends like John Musker and Chris Sanders at major events such as Animation Is Film Festival and LightBox Expo. Beyond her technical animation expertise, Manuela’s creativity, leadership, and passion for storytelling make her an exceptional fit for roles ranging from screenwriter to creative producer."

    Pietro Schito

    Award Winning Animation Writer & Producer

  • "I am thrilled to recommend Manuela, an incredibly talented animator and a great friend. Her work speaks for itself. Manuela brings an infectious charisma to any project. She’s a joy to collaborate with, always open to ideas, and adaptable in a way that makes the creative process smooth and enjoyable. Her ability to bring characters to life, not just through movement but through emotion and personality, is truly exceptional. I highly recommend Manuela, any team would be so lucky to have her!"

    Carl Lewis N.A

    3D Animator at Netflix Animation Studios

  • “I have studied with Manuela, couple classes during my journey at animschool.. and she was hardworker and always push herself to do more .. one of my fav shots that she have done is her bodyacting shot, i would really recommend her as animator for sure.”

    Will Hassn

    3D Animator at Netflix Animation Studios

  • Manuela was a student in my Character Performance class at AnimSchool. She did very well in the course she worked hard and showed significant improvement every week. Manuela created a character with a lot of charm and nuance in the performance, and brought her shot to a high level of polish while learning many new principles in a short period of time. She is great at taking direction, even when it requires her to streamline tricky mechanics or acting notes into her existing work. In addition to being a skilled animator with natural intuition and creative instincts, Manuela is a HUGE pleasure to work with. She is so enthusiastic and excited about animation, and is committed to making her work the best it can possibly be. I think she would do very well in a fast-moving, high-quality production environment.

    Brendan Kirschbaum

    Character Animator at DreamWorks Animation

Connect with Me

⚜️YouTube – Behind-the-scenes and reflections on storytelling
⚜️ Instagram – Visual diary of my film and creative process
⚜️ Newsletter – Monthly letters for artists and dreamers
⚜️LinkedIn – Professional updates and collaborations

Disclaimer: I’m working really hard on my socials. Please show your support. I’ll share some cool content soon!

manuelamontoya.art@gmail.com
(650) 398-9818