David Liebard is a computer graphics specialist with extensive experience in animation production and technical workflow development. His background includes early exposure to Autocad (1989-1993) and a Mechanical Engineering degree from Arts et Métiers (one of France’s leading engineering schools) in 1998, where he utilized software like Catia and Euclid.
Motivated to combine technical expertise with creative goals and fascinated with early Pixar movies, David pivoted to animation, self-teaching Maya very first version before starting his professional career at Ex Machina. After gaining broad experience on a multitude of projects across various studios, he joined Mac Guff Ligne in 2002. David continued with the studio through its transition to Illumination in 2008, ultimately contributing to over 20 feature films until 2021. His credits include 14 Illumination productions such as Despicable Me, Minions, The Secret Life of Pets, Sing, and The Super Mario Bros. Movie, to name a few.
David’s wide-ranging technical and artistic skillset covers the animation pipeline, encompassing areas like modeling, animation, VFX, rendering, compositing, programming (Python, C++, JavaScript), design, web technologies, and beyond.
At Mac Guff/Illumination, David focused on technical direction, specializing in character workflow automation. He was integral to the small team that designed the studio’s character workflow post-2008, oversaw the auto-rig system, developed key production tools, and supervised the rigging department.
Since 2023, following a period dedicated to personal projects, David has worked as a consultant and technical director, developing workflows for animation studios. He is currently focused on exploring the integration of AI into animation processes.