VOLT Studios Welcomes Mike Nelson As Animation Director

VOLT Studios is excited to announce that Mike Nelson has joined the full-service content company as Animation Director. At VOLT, Nelson will apply his artistry and expertise to enhance and build the studio’s creative offering in 3D animation and motion design.  

“I've been wanting to step into the CGI/3D space forever,” says Steve Medin, VOLT Founder, “but it was never the perfect time. Until now. And it's helpful to do it with the perfect person for the job, isn't it? We are super excited to bring Mike on board!" 

Prior to joining VOLT, Nelson enjoyed a successful tenure at Pixel Farm, where he served as 3D Artist and Senior Animator for over a decade working on collaborations for such noted clients as Target, Best Buy, Dairy Queen, the Minnesota Twins, Toro, and Wisconsin Lottery. It was at Pixel Farm that he first met Tom Jacobsen and developed a long-standing friendship that organically led to this reunion at VOLT.  

“We were very intentional about who we wanted to bring into this role - the relationship is as important within the company as it is with our clients,” explains Jacobsen, VOLT Partner/Creative Director. “Mike is a natural fit: he’s immensely talented, thoughtful, and someone we know and respect. It’s really about listening to client needs and supporting them with the right team, of which Mike is an essential part.” 

Nelson’s interest in visual effects and animation was first sparked when, as a child, he saw the dinosaurs leap to life in “Jurassic Park.” This began a lifelong pursuit in understanding the evolution and mastering the craft of computer animation, visual effects, and motion design. This spirit of discovery and the power of designed storytelling led to a career and a calling. At the center of it all, is the desire to help people realize their creative visions, from the spark of the initial pitch to delivering a final project. Nelson’s passion for the industry and creating community was also instrumental in co-founding non-profit Nice Moves in 2016. The organization was established to cultivate an inspiring and diverse animation, vfx, and motion graphics community in the Twin Cities and surrounding regions.  

“This is a great and unique opportunity for all of us to unite and create together. The team at VOLT is so connected and invested in building relationships while delivering amazing work,” notes Nelson. “I know people say this a lot, but it just feels right, and I am excited to see what we do in collaboration.”