Ed Catmull

Ed Catmull is an American computer scientist, engineer, and co-founder of both Pixar and computer graphics company, Wavefront Technologies. Today Catmull is president of both Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios. He has written several books chronicling his experience in creating some of the world’s most beloved animated films, including Toy Story, A Bug’s Life, Toy Story 2, and Monsters Inc.

A graduate of the University of Utah (where his strong interest in computer graphics began), Catmull went on to earn two advanced patents in computer graphics and was eventually hired by George Lucas to work on the original Star Wars trilogy, where his innovative ideas for graphical special effects earned him critical recognition. In 1979, he co-founded the computer graphics company, Wavefront Technologies, and in 1986, Catmull and his team were acquired by Steve Jobs to join his newly-founded computer graphics division at Lucasfilm (later to become Pixar Animation Studios).

At Pixar, Catmull quickly earned the reputation as an inspirational leader who created a culture of innovation. As president and co-founder of the company, Catmull was charged with creating a studio unlike any that had ever been seen, even in Hollywood. To achieve this, Catmull and his team developed the world’s first computer-animated movie, Toy Story – which was released to widespread critical and commercial success in 1995. Under Catmull’s leadership, Pixar went on to produce a string of successful films including Finding Nemo, Cars, and Up, amongst others.

In addition to his success as a computer graphics entrepreneur and film producer, Catmull has also written four books on the subject. He co-authored Creativity, Inc. with Amy Wallace and released his first solo book, The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects, in 2007. His autobiography, co-authored with Oscar-winning director and Pixar co-founder, Andrew Stanton, was released in 2009. This book provides insight into how the studios at Pixar, from management to production, were developed and the culture-building techniques that facilitated the team’s success.

In 2011, Catmull released another book, titled Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces that Stand in the Way of True Inspiration, which he co-wrote with Randy Souza, who is also a co-founder of Wavefront Technologies. This book details Catmull’s approach to overcoming creative hurdles and explores the idea that any organization can become creative if they encourage employees to think outside the box.

In 2014, Catmull released his most recent book, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Future: Twists and Turns and Lessons Learned, which delves into Catmull’s personal adventures over the last forty-five years or so. Filled with engaging stories and fascinating anecdotes, this book provides an intimate look at Catmull’s experiences in and out of Pixar, revealing the thoughtful insights and invaluable lessons gained from his journey to becoming one of the most renowned animators of our time.

In recognition for his contributions to the field of computer animation, Ed Catmull was honored with a special Academy Award in 2009, alongside John Lasseter and Steve Jobs. With his life dedicated to the invention of highly innovative and entertaining products, Catmull’s books provide readers with a valuable insight into the world of animation and the inspirational leadership qualities that are so integral to success.