CLAIRE DE ZOETE

Claire de Zoete is a fountain of creativity – an illustrator, animator, storyteller, and now the Studio Manager of SkyCity Entertainment Group’s in-house creative studio.

With a career that spans everything from children’s books to major international animations, Claire’s work has delighted audiences around the world. She’s illustrated over 30 children’s books and brought to life characters in iconic TV shows and films – including Staines Down Drains, Disney’s Timon & Pumbaa, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas, and Simba’s Pride.

Now, she’s leading the charge at SkyCity’s design team, managing a buzzing studio from behind the desk—while keeping her hand-drawn creative roots alive on the side to ensure her spark stays lit. Claire’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and pure imagination.

In this episode, we dive into her world of animation, storytelling, and what it takes to manage a fast paced studio.