His impressive array of projects for animation include: THE EMPEROR'S NEW GROOVE, LILO AND STITCH, TREASURE PLANET and DINOSAURS (Disney Feature Animation); CHIP 'N' DALE'S RESCUE RANGERS, TALESPIN, GOOF TROOP, THE LITTLE MERMAID, ALADDIN and A GOOFY MOVIE (Disney Television Animation); QUEST FOR CAMELOT (Warner Bros Feature Animation); and SHREK (DreamWorks).

Michael graduated with distinction from Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles, and taught Drawing and Illustration there for twelve years while continuing to work as a commercial and children's book illustrator.  

His publishing credits include book illustration projects for Zondervan Publishing, and Scott Foresman, publishers of the classic Dick and Jane reading series. He recently finished work on TRUCKTOWN, a 36-book Pre-K reading series published by Pearson/Scott Foresman, written by popular children's author, Jon Scieszka and illustrated by collaborative illustrators.

In 1999 Michael moved to the Chicago area to work with Big Idea Productions, home of the popular 3D animated video series, VEGGIETALES. He headed up their Visual Development Department and served as Art Director on many direct-to-video productions, as well as Art Direction Consultant on Big Idea's first full-length theatrical release, Jonah.

Today Michael owns Spoonerville Animation Design, an independent visual development and illustration studio, providing both traditional and CGI computer-design concepts for clients such as Big Idea, Star Farm Productions, ReelFX Creative Studios, and Walt Disney Animation Studios. He lives in the western suburbs of Chicago with his children's book-writer wife, Beverly Spooner, and son Philip.

A much sought-after visiting artist and guest speaker, Michael loves to share his knowledge and experiences as an artist with children of all ages. His lively "animated," interactive approach pulls kids into the wacky world of animation and illustration, igniting their imagination, and helping them see the world through an artist's eyes!

To tailor a presentation that meets your students' needs, contact Michael through his email or phone listed below.

Contact Information:

Email: spoonerville1@sbcglobal.net
Online Portfolio: http://theartofmichaelspooner.blogspot.com