I’m sorry to learn that director, writer and artist Gideon Baws died today. He was 33 years old.

Gideon was one of the warmest, most talented and intelligent people you could ever meet. He just radiated creativity in painting, animation, design, drawing, language…everything. His whole character was just formidably talented. He had a wit as sharp as a pin and had an gift for effortlessly making people laugh. He was so funny you would regret not taking notes when you were around him.

Gideon’s contribution to animation isn’t appreciated as much as it should be. His influence as part of Shynola can be seen all over the animation world, and it will probably take some years for people to fully realize how significant his team has been. Gideon has had a hand in so many great works which have been imitated and continue to be imitated by countless other animators and directors. Gideon never had a shortage of ideas, he never stopped having them. I’ll remember him for being one of the very few genuinely honest people out there. In an industry which is often more interested in congratulating itself, Gideon was never afraid to give his honest opinion about something, often getting right to the truth of it and expressing what no-one else had the courage to.

I owe a great debt to Gideon, he effectively gave me my start in animation. Several years ago as a frustrated student I sent Shynola an email, it was Gideon who received it. I’ll never forget the day he replied and offered me my first job in the animation world. He helped me find an apartment when I first moved to London. When I was stuck or didn’t know how something was done, which happened often when we shared a desk, he would patiently take time to explain it. If it wasn’t for Gideon I wouldn’t be what I am today.

What makes this so tragic is that he was enjoying life so much recently. He was in his prime, and was by all accounts in great form. lt’s just so cruel and confusing his life has been cut short. The world won’t be the same without him.

interview with Gideon and Kenny from 2004.