Independent Animator Brings Arkansas Folklore to Life
Former local graphic artist produces horror-themed animated films independently.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Animation
Former KATV graphic artist David Schedler writes, models, and animates horror-themed films inspired by Arkansas folklore. He maintains full creative control by working independently and coordinating voice actors remotely.
Why it matters
Schedler prioritizes his independent process to ensure he retains total creative autonomy over his storytelling. This approach allows him to explore niche regional legends that might otherwise be overlooked by larger production studios.
Schedler serves as the writer, modeler, and animator for his projects while utilizing remote voice actors from locations like North Carolina and Philadelphia. His completed films have reached international audiences, including a screening in Australia.
The players
David Schedler
David Schedler is an independent animator and former graphic artist at the Little Rock television station KATV.
KATV
KATV is a Little Rock-based television station where David Schedler formerly worked as a graphic artist.
The details
Schedler conducts voice acting sessions over the internet using Zoom, allowing him to collaborate with talent across different states. The films focus specifically on Arkansas folklore, bringing local history to life through horror-themed animation.
Timeline
October 21, 2026: Article publication date.
Industry Dynamics
This move toward solo animation production reflects the ongoing shift in the industry where technology enables individual creators to bypass traditional studio gates. It follows the pattern set by the rise of decentralized digital animation production by demonstrating how a single artist manages global collaborations.
Fans of independent horror can track Schedler's work as he enters his films into various international film festivals. This distribution model prioritizes specialized screenings over traditional local theatrical releases.
The takeaway
Creative independence allows artists to preserve the authentic tone of regional folklore without studio interference. Aspiring animators can look to remote collaborative tools as a viable method for maintaining control over niche projects.
Further reading
For more on the current landscape of independent media, explore the Animation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KATV.
