Jason Gabriel, 29, from Bakersfield, never thought he’d turn his passion for drawing into a career. He studied computer science, but soon discovered his true talent lay in art. After getting rejected by CalArts twice, Gabriel persevered and eventually landed an internship at the renowned animation studio “South Park.” He impressed the team with his skills and work ethic, landing a full-time job as a character and background designer.
Gabriel’s journey took him from working at Walmart to juggling multiple jobs while pursuing his passion for art. After graduating from California Institute of the Arts in 2021, he worked on several projects, including “South Park: Post COVID” and “Futurama.” He also started doing caricatures at events like the Senses Block Party in Santa Clarita, which has become a lucrative side gig.
Gabriel’s success can be attributed to his dedication, hard work, and willingness to learn. Despite facing setbacks and rejections, he remained committed to his craft, eventually landing a job at Rough Draft Studios, where he worked on “Disenchantment” and other projects.
His colleagues praise Gabriel for his talent, work ethic, and collaborative spirit. Director Andrew Han notes that Gabriel has what it takes to excel in the industry, citing his ability to push himself to do bigger things. As Gabriel continues to grow as an artist, he remains humble and appreciative of the journey that led him to where he is today.
Gabriel’s story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication. With a passion for art and a willingness to take risks, he has turned his dreams into a reality, inspiring others with his remarkable life story.
Source: https://signalscv.com/2025/08/faces-of-the-scv-caricature-artist-goes-from-chipotle-to-south-park