Sheldon Lieberman, Bigfish
Do something for at least an hour every day that clears your mind ...
There are those who toddle off to work each morning, content to tick off the checklist, fill out the timesheet and call it a day at 5:00 pm sharp. And then there are those who have a greater vision, relentlessly hatching new plans and striving to give their passion projects just as much love as the money earners. As the founder of local studio Bigfish, Sheldon Lieberman has spent the past two decades guiding his team of strategists, designers, animators, writers, editors, programmers and producers to craft all kinds of quirky and original branding, advertising, design and film work for clients around the world. But the Bigfish mob has also dedicated its time to projects that benefit the community, taking out the BADC Charity Challenge last year, embarking on busking benders to raise money for the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Association of Australia and battling misinformed stereotypes in the animated short film, Teagan. As the company celebrates its 20th birthday this year, Sheldon caught up with The Weekend Edition to reflect on doing what you love and appreciating the people around you.
What do you love about your job?
My team. The quality of the work. The laughter.
You’ve been at the helm of Bigfish for 20 years, what have been some of your favourite projects to date?
The charity work we’ve done – it’s been the most crazy, the most fun and the most rewarding. Brisbane Festival. The post-flood Together Brisbane campaign. Our animated series, Spike & Dadda.
What’s been the biggest challenge?
Balancing our income with our art.
Congratulations on winning Best Animation at the West End Film Festival for the second year running! What can you tell us about Teagan?
Teagan is our animated short film about our editor who is transgender. We loved him as a him and we love her as a her. I’m proud of how we’ve supported her transformation into her true self. The film captures this beautifully.
We were touched by your live-streamed busking efforts last year, which raised almost $14,000 for the Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Association of Australia. What’s a message you’d like to pass on to readers who may not know about SMA?
To read about SMA and be aware of the life and death challenges some families face every single day with their own child. To appreciate their children, listen to them, make them laugh and let them cry. The world is too busy. We need to slow down and see each other.
You’ve teamed up with your son Spike on a number of beautiful projects. What wisdom have you gained from seeing the world through the eyes of a child?
Before kids, I was obsessed and distracted by technology. Spike and Michi taught me to find joy in people, in animals, in the environment. They helped me find myself.
What’s the last thing that made you smile?
Trying to floss Spike’s teeth.
What’s the story behind the name Bigfish?
I was Fish and I started working with a partner. So we became Bigfish.
What do you hope to achieve in your career?
I want Bigfish to continue to grow because it provides an honest, creative home for people who care about their work. I want to continue to create films and perfomances that make people laugh, even cry.
Who are some other local creatives we should keep an eye on?
To be honest, I don’t get out much these days, but Josephmark, Breeder and us share a lovely relationship. I like their shoes. Fries Need Mayonnaise. The Hoopla Family. Kevin Finn. I’ve always liked Hannah Cutts.
What’s your idea of complete happiness?
Being yourself. Doing what you love. Sharing your gifts.
What’s worth fighting for?
Orangutans.
We’ve heard you have a fondness for tequila, music and potatoes. What’s something else people might not know about you?
One of my testicles is lower than the other … But only slightly.
What are your essentials for a well-spent weekend?
Family, friends, fishing rod, tent, ukelele, harmonica.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
Olivia and I have been together for 20 years. A business is nothing compared to nurturing a relationship.
What are your words of wisdom?
Do something for at least an hour every day that clears your mind. It’s the only way the real stuff can get in.
Only a Brisbane local would know … you have to get the garlic sauce with a kebab at King Ahiram, otherwise it’s too dry.
FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … The beach.
Relax … Home.
Dine … Thai Wi Rat, Fortitude Valley.
Indulge … Healing Hands Thai Massage, East Brisbane.
Shop … Online.
Catch-up … The Low Road Cafe in Windsor for brekky.
Be inspired … Brisbane Festival, Brisbane Powerhouse, Queensland Ballet.
