D’Andre Hill, or Dre for short, is a young artist, storyteller, and alumni of Drury University. Dre graduated in 2021, where he studied animation and writing. While attending Drury University, he produced two podcasts, published some of his creative writing, and worked on a few film projects, including his own animated short film called “Solace.” The Scoop reached out to Dre to learn more about him and his student film “Solace.”
Check out his Instagram here, and click here to watch “Solace” on YouTube.
Q: Could you explain what your senior animation project was?
A: One of my senior projects, my student film, is aptly titled “Solace”. I first began working on the project during the summer of 2020 and completed it in time for its private premiere on May 14th, 2021. It’s a story about solitude, loneliness, and wanting to belong, as told through the lived experiences of Sol, a sentient flame. Given the past couple of years, and the way the pandemic has affected our way of being, I feel like my short is an abstract about the realities of being and feeling alone.
Q: How did you feel when “Solace” got selected to be in a film festival?
A: Having Solace selected for the BiteSize Film Festival was an exciting experience. I’m proud of my film and the work that my team and I accomplished. I might still look into submitting it to more festivals now that it’s been released on YouTube for all to see.
Q: Are you doing any more animation?
A: I am still animating. Most of it recently has been very abstract work, set to various music. I do have plans to begin the planning stages for my next animated short. I’m not sure what that will be yet, but I’m excited to find out.
Q: What are you up to now that you have graduated?
A: I have been working at a rental software company for the past several months. I’m currently looking into other employment options, including teaching. I am currently in the middle of a teaching certification program. However, I am open minded when it comes to my transition and future placement.
Q: Do you have anything you’d like to promote?
A: My debut poetry chapbook, ”i love you means nothing,” will be available on Amazon in time for Valentine’s Day. My website, drehillart.com is regularly updated regarding my latest publications.
