Aaron Holmes

Aaron Holmes is an Associate Professor in the Department of Art at Biola University, where he explores critical societal issues through analog animation techniques as both educator and practitioner.

His academic credentials include:

• B.S. from Doane College
• M.A. from University of Massachusetts Amherst
• MFA in Animation from California Institute of the Arts

Professor Holmes' creative scholarship centers on using stop motion animation as visual poetry to interrogate the climate crisis, political polarization, and parenting in unstable environments. His metaphorical approach transforms complex socio-ecological themes into accessible cinematic narratives through meticulous handcrafted techniques, positioning animation as a vital medium for contemporary discourse.

His recent creative output demonstrates a concentrated focus on environmentally conscious storytelling, with works like "Muro" (2022) receiving institutional support from Film Independent and LAIKA, reflecting growing recognition of animation's capacity to address urgent global challenges through intimate personal lenses.

His distinguished recognition includes:

• Harvey Fellowship from the Mustard Seed Foundation (2020)
• Jules Engel Award MFA scholarship from CalArts (2020)
• Lillian Disney Scholarship from CalArts (2018-2022)

Prior to his Biola appointment, Holmes developed professional expertise through independent motion design work and studio positions at Stoopid Buddy and Open the Portal, while maintaining active teaching engagements at Cal State Long Beach and CalArts. His industry-academic hybrid career bridges commercial production with pedagogical innovation in animation education.