Interview with Emraldtiger789 (1st legendary reader)
1. Congrats on earning Legendary Reader! How does it feel to be one of the few users to achieve this title?
It feels great, knowing that my persistence for getting the rank has paid off. However on the other side of the coin it also feels a little lonely, knowing that I am the only current legendary reader.
2. What is your favorite forum to read? Why?
My favorite forum would probably be the Bionicle sub-forum, because it's hilarious, it has a great community, and has some great topics!
3. What keeps you from posting? Do you think you ever will?
The only reason I don't post is because I still want to discover the next reader rank. It can be difficult to wait, but once I discover the next reader rank, I will definitely start posting!
4. What type of posts do you “like”? Why?
Well, I tend to like posts that are funny, posts that I agree with, and story chapters. Some of my favorite stories are {-}HUNTED OUTCAST{-} By my brother Coson13, and Stars, by Steampunk_Jedi.
5. You read a lot of stories on the LMBs. If you were to write a story, what would it be about?
Why yes, I think I do. I would probably write a stereotypical story in which all the main characters are slowly hunted down and chased by infected users, but the infected win! MOO-HA-HA-HA-HA-HAAAA!!! Wait, did I just say that out loud?
6. Tell us three interesting facts about you that we don’t already know.
First, I can do a perfect imitation of Herbie the Dentist from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. in: B. Our neighbor's chickens like to spend more time in our yard then they're own. So in conclusion I am a tenth grader doing college level math!
7. Have you seen The LEGO Movie? Who is your favorite character? Why?
Why yes, I have! My favorite character is Batman because, he's Batman.
8. What is your favorite LEGO theme? Your favorite LEGO set? Your favorite LEGO minifigure?
My favorite LEGO themes are Bionicle for its complex universe, and Legends of Chima for its well crafted sets. My favorite LEGO set is, or was, the Coast Guard Patrol Boat and Tower. :wistful_longing_emote: My favorite LEGO minifigure is Lavertus, or IS he?
9. If you could have any job at the LEGO Company what would it be and why?
I would probably be a concept designer, who creates totally new and original themes!
10. What are your top three favorite hobbies? Why?
My top three hobbies are A. Reading, because stories can open up whole new worlds to you. Second is "liking posts," because it is a constructive way to utilize my ambition for obtaining my bottom-line objectives. And in conclusion, I play Minecraft because I cannot only see new worlds, but I can blow it up too!
11. What is your absolute favorite thing about the LMBs? Why? What is your least favorite? Why?
My favorite thing about the LMBs are reader ranks, because without it, I would just be another random user trying to get recognized. My least favorite thing about the LMBs is the fear about accidentally making a post before I can discover the next reader rank.
12. Do you have any superpowers?
I have the ability to guess correctly whether a baby is going to be a boy or a girl before it is born.
13. What would you like a future poll to be?
How often do you combine your LEGO sets to make a bigger one?
A: Never
B: Sometimes
C: Most of the time
D: All the time!
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
You are being held captive by a giant mutant LEGO minifigure, who has locked you in a room with a GIANT bucket of LEGO bricks so you won't get bored. How would you escape?
15. Question from sheklord: How long of you been playing with your LEGO [pieces]?
I have been playing with my LEGO pieces for approximately 11 years!
1. How did you choose your username? What does it mean?
Well... Where to start? I used to play lots of older computer games, and I came across one that was destined to be my favorite: "ZORK: The Undiscovered Underground." It was a text computer game, which meant that you played and interacted with objects in a world similar to one of the LEGO roleplays, except it was just you. One of the most famous phrases from this game happens when you walk into a dark place. It says:
"It is pitch dark. You are likely to be eaten by a grue."
No one really knows exactly what a grue is, which makes it the perfect username.
2. You are very active in Legends of Chima Roleplay. What is your favorite thing about roleplaying?
There are many great things about roleplaying, and I love all of it. One of my favorite things about roleplaying is that you get to create a world together, and interact with many different kinds of roleplayers. This keeps the roleplay fresh and interesting. Each user is unique and has a couple of awesome ideas, and their character contributes a lot to the roleplaying world. As each character does this, the ideas come together and form the perfect place where conflicts, events, and much more can happen. The users create the roleplay, the roleplay does not create THEM.
3. If you could be a member of any Chima tribe which would you join? Why?
Probably the Gorillas. They are the most caring tribe, they love nature, and most important of all, THEY CAN RELAX AND TRULY ENJOY THE LIFE AROUND THEM.
...And they're great fighters.
4. How did you first learn about the LMBs?
I don't really remember, actually. I think I was just browsing the LEGO website and was linked to the message boards through the LEGO Games page. I was hooked on the concept that LEGO lovers could come together and express feelings and ideas coming truly from a LEGO-loving heart. And THEN I found the roleplays.
5. You are really active outside of the LMBs. What is your favorite hobby? Why?
Theater. No doubt about it. That's partly why I love roleplays so much, it's because you can become a character and develop a world around you. Also, I get to meet extremely weird people like myself. In fact, one of them was on the message boards for a while as "gateceaper1" which was an old joke in one of the plays we were in together.
I hope to be in the upcoming production in my community, "Snow White." I think it'll be awesome. Pretty much like here.
6. How do you balance everything you participate in? School? The LMBs? Theatre? Sports?
I don't. It pretty much balances itself, if you make sure you get to do what you really love, as well as what you need to learn. There are some tough days with tight schedules, but it comes out alright in the end.
7. What would you do if you were a Mod for a day?
That's a really really really tough question. I guess I would have to make sure that I was listening to the good ideas from all the users, as well as making sure the posts and topics I would moderate were really quality content. But that's not hard most of the time, with such an awesome quality-posting community like this one.
I would also pay extra attention to topics, which sometimes are dupes or have nothing else to say than what somebody already said. This would decrease the amount of dupe topics and pointless topics that we scroll through each day.
8. If you could change one thing about the LMBs what would it be? Why?
I really don't have an answer to this. The Message Boards are awesome just the way they are. Well, I think I would put in an "Agree" button next to the "Like" button. It makes more sense to "Agree" to some things than to "Like" them.
9. What is your favorite memory from your time in the LMB community? Why did you choose that memory?
My favorite memory... Hm... Well, I have a lot of them. My very favorite one would have to be when I met karateduo1. That first time was great, when I tried to fight him(in a role-play, thank goodness!) and when I learned just how awesome he could be.
10. Tell us one fun fact about you that we don’t already know.
There's a secret forest place behind my house that I can bike to. It's filled with biking trails, and sometimes when I need to think or I just need to be alone, I go there. It's also handy to bring my backpack with all my drawing and writing stuff, 'cause I write a lot of poems, as well as stories and comics.
11. What user(s) has influenced you the most on the LMBs? Why?
I have a few that I will list here:
-karateduo1: He showed me some of the most important things about roleplaying, and influenced me to be a quality roleplayer, as well as a quality poster.
-Sissyloo1: Another one with a 1 by her name! She gave me my ability to be patient and caring with other users.
-DwarfMineFan50: Influenced me to be the best poster I can be, to always be a quality quester() and to never stop trying to get people to understand an important poster.
-Sk8r00: Showed me how to be helpful in all that I post and do on the MBs.
There are many more, these are just the ones that come to mind right now. In a way, every user I've met has influenced me to be who I am today on the Message Boards.
12. Do you have any superpowers?
Hmm... I guess I have the superpower to fix some technical problems with computers and such, and I have the superpower of being an actor!
13. What would you like a future poll to be?
"What is your favorite LEGO movie?"
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
"Why are you interested in LEGOs?" I think it would be fun to see why the user loves LEGOs.
15. Question from LelilaOrganaSolo: If you could build anything out of LEGO, and you had all the bricks in the world, what would you build?
Uhh, Ummm… I would build something for the enjoyment and excitement of others, like I gigantic garden made of LEGOs, or A really cool tower, or something like that. It would be fun to see how people reacted to it, what they liked about it, and so on.
1. You are the only user currently ranked Musketeer. Congrats!! How does it feel?
Both awesome and humbling I couldn’t have expected this at all… Although ranks aren’t THAT big a part of the ‘Boards, or at least I feel they shouldn’t be. I’m fully ready for someone else to pass me though,*Thumbs over to Diglett and Paccy*
2. How did you become the highest ranked user on the LMBs? What’s your secret to success?
Knowing such amazing people like DarkPit13, Gracelw1, Indikid9149, BattleTruckGalactica, Huskeygirl, Madkatmaximus96, RLROCKS18, AJRAWLEY5700, Zapty, and many others has boosted my AwesomeMeter so that I have been deemed worthy. That and I seem to have become some kind of a hoohoo Likes magnet in the last couple weeks… Really, I have no idea. I think a Mod just likes me.
3. What do you think the next rank is? What rank are you really hoping to discover?
I was thinking Pirate…. But I was also thinking Pirate for Ranks 15, 16, and 17. Maybe I should stop guessing. Well I wasn’t planning on discovering any ranks actually… But then it happened. Although the rank I was most excited to achieve was Conquistador. I had said something about wanting that as a rank before the new Boards were made, thinking that there wasn’t a chance in the world it would happen And when it did … I FREAKED, YO And I love the Musketeer rank And if I have to discover one more rank, the one I want to find is … well let’s just put it this way Its not Hippie
4. Of all the topics you have created, which is your favorite? Why?
“If You Met Him/Her…” It was my first topic that was really a “Successful” one. Whereas almost all of my previous topics were either flops, or they got ruined by banter or trolls.
5. You have been a member of the LMBs for awhile now. How have things changed over the years?
For the whole Boards … not a clue For a long time I was only active in the Hero Factory and Video Games forums (And I’m still rather reclusive ). The biggest “change” I’ve seen is the update. At first I hated it. Now I love it. And of course, the changes of who “popular” and such. When Digs had so many likes and it seemed no one could reach him, then Skul blew everyone out of the water with his likes. And now I myself am getting more attention than I used to. But truthfully, I do not believe I am the best person to ask on this subject. (Although the biggest change I’ve seen around the whole ‘Boards is moderation speed and the Mods becoming more “comment-y” )
6. What do your family and friends think of your LMB fame?
Fame? Oh dear. Not fame… get it away from me! Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!! *Runs away Then comes back* My parents think it’s really cool. And my lone family member on the Boards, my cousin Legofire53 (who is epic ) thinks it’s awesome that I’m the highest ranked and amongst the highest liked. Once he even said something like “I’m going to give you likes until you’re in the top 3 most liked ever!” Thankfully that has not transpired. I get too many likes as it is. And come to think of it, I do not think I have really told my real-life friends about my so-called “Fame.” I mention the Boards quite a bit though
7. What advice can you give to other users hoping to be a community member like you one day?
Oh dear, here comes the hardest question. Really just be yourself and be kind. I do have one piece of advice though for the ‘debaters.’ When in a discussion/debate, don’t usually state things like facts. Like instead of “This theme is better than that theme!”, try putting an “In my opinion” in there somewhere. It can make a huge difference. And if someone ever posts something rude to you… it may be best to just not respond. It makes arguments go away a lot faster.
8. If you had one LEGO wish (and could wish for anything) what would you wish for? Why?
Any LEGO set that I have ever wanted would suddenly appear before me and I could have them forever.
9. What is your favorite thing about the LMBs? Why?
Talking with my closest friends and just having silly fun. Such as tango-ing with Grace (Don’t ask), doing weird-epic RP with Trucky(), and the random fun discussing VGs (amongst other things) at the MMC with DarkPit, Indi, RL and rest of the gang. And, of course, reading stories and writing them. Especially those written by AravisOfNarnia and WaveViper. But really my favorite thing has been the deep, rich friendships I’ve made. I’ve never had closer friends in my life
10. What career do you hope to have one day? Any plans to become a Mod, Master Builder, or set designer?
I’d love to be a Mod someday. But I can’t speak/type in German. So I do not know. My mom says I could be a writer… But only the Lord knows.
11. What is one interesting thing about you that the users of the LMBs probably don’t know?
(Only one? Oh can do better than that But I guess I’ll have to go with two or three… )
Well one thing that comes to mind is my craziness. As in I’m not always this way IRL. I’m actually just as quiet and shy as I am crazy and hyper. I usually keep to myself and stay indoors a lot too. I also stutter IRL. A LOOOT. The Internet obliterates that problem though. >: D Oh, and I have very deep fears of bees, fire, and needles …
12. Do you have any superpowers?
The ability to abuse the tongue smiley more than anyone else in the world. And I have special spam powers! I can spam more than anyone else on the on the Boards!
(Okay, sorry. I just couldn’t resist doing that. And I knew that IndianaBonesSulfrix would be proud. )
13. What would you like a future poll to be?
What’s your favorite past/classic LEGO theme? And the choices would be Aquazone, RockRaiders, Exo-Force, Dino Attack, and Forestmen. And I suppose there would have to be a “I don’t know any of those themes!” option.
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
If you were free-falling out of a jet airplane and the only thing you had was some LEGO bricks, how would you use them to save you?
15. Question from Zapty: If you were the president of The LEGO Group, what would you do?
I’d make everything cheaper. As well as cut way back on licensed themes. And make sure everyone in the world had access to a LEGO store! And since I’d be the president of TLG, I suppose I’d have a lot of money, so … I’d buy a life-time’s stash of Mountain Dew.
(Sorry, but it just wouldn’t have been a true Tanner-worthy interview without at least one good tongue smiley blast.
1. What a unique username! What was the inspiration behind it?
No inspiration really. This was my brother’s account before I took it over asked him for it. ^_^ He never got on anyway, so it was mine! >: D He was trying to spell Sheiklord, but, His spelling wasn’t that great.
2. You are very friendly and upbeat on the LMBs. How do you stay in such a great mood all the time?
I am? Well, it’s just….me I guess. And that LEGOs is one of my main hobbys! ^_^ And my dad and mom are happy most of the time, too!
3. What advice can you give to other users that admire your friendliness?
Never. Give. Corny. Jokes. It’s not worth it. -_- Well, I didn’t think anyone admired me…
4. If you could have any job when you're older, what would it be and why?
I would definitely be a Writer. ^_^ I love and enjoy it. I am currently writing a story about Kirby. Sorry, I’m not that creative. I wouldn’t make a good LEGO designer.
Quickly? That’s a toughfy. a mix between Power Miners and Space Police. Claw Digger. Oh no. >_< This is hard. Wait for it. Jay in his final robe at the end of the series!! ^_^ Wow, that was a mouthful.
6. Tell us three interesting facts we don't know about you.
This is a dangerous question. Well, I own and play well on my Ukulele, And crochet little Kirbys, ^_^ Oh, and I have 9 siblings, 1 is married and another is about to. ^_^
7. Congrats on being a Journeyman of Olde and a current Samurai Warrior! What do you think is the key to your rank success?
Well, I know that how you got ranks on the old LMBs, you posted a lot. But I think the key is that the mods decide when you rank. And also having awesomesauce friends like I do!! ^_^
8. Are you a cat person or a dog person?
Well!! I never!! How insulting… ….Wait, what did that say? *squints* Oh. I Love KITTYS!!! ^_^_^ We’ve had 20 in the past 8 years!! ^_^ Which means we’ve had 2 cats in each year. But currently, we own an adorable, fat, fluffy cat that is like 7 years old in human years.
9. What is the coolest LEGO creation you've ever made? What inspired you to make it?
The two footed tall Police station I made when I was like 11! ^_^ I had P-Squidy in the jail.
10. What is your favorite memory from your time on the LMBs? Why is it your favorite?
Ahh, memories. I think, my most cherished memory, is The MLN Knights. Tatoranaki, I think, has retired now. L but those were fun times, talking and helping people!! But now I’m making awesome new memories, at Finding Friendships! ^_^ I don’t think I’ll ever forget you guys. O_O
11. Do you have any superpowers?
Yes!! ^_^ I can sleep all day and read 4 books a day!! ….Fine. No, I can’t fly and see through walls.
12. What would you like a future poll to be?
On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do you play with your LEGOs?
13. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
How long of you been playing with your LEGOs?
14. Question from BattleTruckGalactica: If you got the chance to create one LEGO element, what would it be and why?
Let’s see, I would create a LEGO donkey, I mean, like, if I want to make a peasant, they have horses. -_- Plus, I always wanted to see a donkey Legorazed.
1. It’s almost your one year LMB birthday. Congrats! How do you feel about turning 1?
Thank you! Turning 1 on here is so amazing. It's a very big achievement for me, and now I can't wait to get to my second year.
2. What has been the very best part of the last year?
Oh, favorite time of the year? That's hard. Very, very hard. I'd probably say when I came out of my semi-retirement. I loved how everyone was so excited to see me again, and that they were so welcoming. It was one of the times I realized that I properly belonged here.
3. What inspired you to join the community? What made you want to stay and become so active?
I was looking for Ninjago quotes one day to use on a blog that I was making about Ninjago. I really wanted a quote for Cole, and I couldn't find one, so I decided to stop raiding my head over and over and try the internet for a change. So I google searched it, and one of the results was the LMBs. I was like "No way! LEGO has a forum on its website? I have to check this out." So after a while Mum said I could join, and I did. I loved how everyone was so kind and supportive, and as time went on I started making some really good friends, and I decided to stay on for as long as possible, and become an inspiring user.
4. What is your favorite LEGO theme and why?
Oh, my favorite theme? I've a lot of different ones over the years, but I would have to say Ninjago, as it's the first one I've gone OTT about. I remember when I first saw it in the catalog I thought that it wouldn't be very good, and did my best to ignore it. Didn't work too well, no matter how stubborn I got. Then I was on a Plane to go to Adelaide and they were showing Ninjago on the TV's that are in the seats. I started watching, and then I was obsessed with it. Then my brother found one of the Elemental Blades underneath the TV in our room at a hotel, and I took it as a sign that I should look into it some more. So now I've collected most of the Lloyd Minifigures, four spinners, the Garmatron, etc, a T-shirt with Lloyd on it, and I've emailed quite a few of the people involved on the Ninjago TV series.
5. What was the last set you built? How did you enjoy it?
The latest set I've built was the Golden Dragon. It's a pretty neat build, taking me about half an hour to construct, and I love the colours on it. The Lloyd minifigure is awesome, and I like that he comes with the Dragon Sword from the Weapons of Spinjitzu. The Dragon's head and wings are awesome, but the one problem I have is that its feet don't move enough. I'm going to have to figure out how to build some feet for it.
6. If you were a Mod for a day what would you do and why?
Oh, being a Mod of a day? That would be Spintastic! I reckon I'd try one of the donuts which are floating around the Mod HQ, and then I'd have a chat to you all. After that I'd make a Lloyd emote, and help Catwizard (or The Whizz, as I call him ) answer questions in TTTM. Then I'd moderate some posts. And maybe find out how Ranks work. Nah, maybe I wouldn't. It's fun not knowing!
7. What is your very favorite activity on the LMBs?
My favorite activity on the LMB's is answering people's questions, giving people help, chatting and RPing. Wow, I just named four instead of one. I'd probably say RPing, because it's like I've entered a different world, one that is much more exciting that real life.
8. You are a story writer. What is the best part of story writing? What is the toughest?
I'd say the best part of story writing is coming up with the characters and the worlds that they live in or travel to! Sometimes I already have the characters made out in my head, like I've known them forever, and sometimes it takes me a minute to make up what the character looks like or behaves. It's also much easier if I am basing the character off someone I know. I'd say that the hardest part is the plot. My plots seem to run along the same line: Hero and friends find out one day that there is a new menace around! Hero and friends have to find the Villain! Hero and friends lose one of the people in their team! Hero beats the Villain! Hero's friend comes back! Although I'm hoping that in Rise of the Nerds it's going to come out slightly differently, because I'm writing about twenty or so instead of eight or nine.
9. You always use your signature purple font. How long have you used that font and why did you choose it?
I can't remember how long I've been using that font, although I think it was around the time I came out of my semi-retirement. I remember that I can nearly always tell users apart just by looking at the font they use or the way they write (I'll see green, bold writing, and I'll say to myself "Hey, that's CaptianChespin!"), and I've always liked being... different. And a bit of a show off. So one day I looked at the different fonts and colours, and decided to use Comic Sans because I liked its form, and purple, because I think purple is awesome! So I've stuck with that.
10. If you could be any LEGO minifigure who would you be and why?
Oh, if I could be any minifigure? I'd choose either Nya or Caila Phoenix. They're both awesome girls who sure know how to kick-butt!
11. Tell us three interesting things about you that we don’t already know.
1: I'm the only person in the house who can build according to the instructions really quickly. 2: My Sensei in Jujitsu calls me "Bendy Stick". 3: I've met some famous people - I used to go to the same school that Robbie Coltrane sent his kids to!
12. If you had an unlimited supply of LEGO pieces what would you build and why?
If I had an unlimited supply of LEGO Bricks, I reckon I'd make... All of Ninjago. I'd probably make it in different stages of time, too. So I'd have a version of it before the Final Battle, a version during the Final Battle, and a version of it after the Final Battle. It would much easier doing my stop-start motions!
13. Do you have any superpowers? If so, what are they?
I've got quite a few, but I'll name about three or four. 1: I can change the color of my eyes. I accidentally turned them from gorgeous blue to some sort of grey over three or four months. That was freaky. 2: I'm double jointed, so I can do a few pretty weird maneuvers, which freak people out, especially in Jujitsu. One minute my arm is normal and the next it's popped out of place. Then I move it and its back to normal. 3: I can calm down cats really easily - most of the time. I whistle very gently, and the cat will come over and start licking my shoes. My Grandmother calls me a Cat Whisperer.
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
I'd like to ask this: If the only LEGO Bricks left in the world were Pink and Green, what would you make and why?
15. Question from paperclip8707: Which retired LEGO theme would you like back the most?
Which retired theme would I like back? That's got me stumped! I can't pick between Belville and Fabuland. *Rolls a dice.* OK, I got Fabuland! I'd like Fabuland back because it's so... friendly, fun, and calm. Plus it doesn't have much of a plot line, so it's easier to make things up. And it was so much fun looking at the stories that were on the instructions. The minifigures were so cute - it was all Mum could do to save her old key chain of Clara Cow when she gave us the LEGO. Poor Clara is now missing her eyes. She about.. 25 years old now, so Mum did a good job of looking after her before she passed the LEGO Fabuland on to us.
Interview with Erik, Master Model Builder (A lego designer) Words from WA: "The exciting conclusion to our special LMB Birthday Interview Series has arrived!
As a grand finale to our birthday celebrations the Mods are very happy to introduce you to one of the artists behind the amazing LEGO models you see at LEGO stores, LEGOland, and more!
Meet Erik, an official LEGO Master Model Builder!"
1. What is the best thing about being a LEGO Master Builder? What is the most challenging aspect?
The best thing about being a Master Builder is just the sheer variety of all the limitless things can we build. It never gets monotonous or boring like some jobs might. There is always a new project, a new challenge to be had the next day. Those challenges are the best part. I love to explore with new ways of using the brick.
2. Can you explain the process behind creating a large LEGO model?
These days we do most of our large scale modeling digitally. We use various programs that LEGO developed in house that allow us to take imported 3D objects and rough out that shape in brick form.
The software is pretty incredible but it isn't as easy as just hitting a few buttons. I'll often have to spend somewhere from 40 to 100 hours working a human sized design depending on the complexity. And even then I do like to finish off finer details like faces or other complex parts Old School style by using real bricks and incorporating them with the digital parts.
Once I've finalized the design I'll pass it off to my team of talented Model Builders and they do the actual gluing together of the bricks and assembling them around an internal steel framework. The glue and steel are needed because these models get shipped all over the world and we need to insure they arrive in one piece. Build time on a human sized piece can run anywhere from 125 to 250 hours.
3. Imagine that you had 24 hours to build any model you wanted. What would you build? Why?
I'd love to design my own house someday. A real live house. Planning and building it in brick would go a long way to work out all the details. I'd imagine I'd want more than a day to make it just right though.
4. What advice can you give to someone hoping to be a Master Builder in the future?
I get asked this all the time. Mostly by parents. The arts, design and even math and history are very important for Master Builders but when I first started at LEGO it was all old school building, drawing up designs and snapping together brick prototypes. But with the advent of computers in our work I tell the kids that if they want to become a LEGO Master Builder they should study CAD (Computer Aided Drawing) and 3D modeling. Even though I graduated years ago, I had to go back to school and learn these. Your education never really ends.
5. If you could be any minifigure for a day who would you be and why?
Minifigure? Hmm… do I get the abilities that come along with the character too? If that's the case then I'd say the Flash from #76012. Super speed would be cool. Then I could build that house of mine in 24 hours.
6. What is your favorite hobby outside of LEGO building?
Currently, I'm an artist without a studio. I'd love it if I had the space (and time) to get back to painting or sculpting. I honestly don't think that I will get back to it until I retire. That's okay though. Building with LEGO scratches that creative itch for me.
For now, l'll be content with my kayak and throwing frisbees to my whippet, Roman.
7. If you could create your very own LEGO element what would it be and why would you make it?
There are dozens of cool and useful LEGO elements released each year but I've always wondered why there is a 2x2 curved brick (we used to call them macaroni bricks) and a 4x4 curved brick but no 3x3 that could fit between them. It maybe wouldn't be the most useful in every situation brick but there were a few times over the years when I could have used it.
8. Do you ever make mistakes when building a model? What do you do to fix them if you do?
The stuff we use to glue our models together, thankfully, is slow to cure. Even if we discover a mistake on Monday that we made on Friday we should be able to fix it without too much trouble. Still, nobody wants to go back and redo work. You'll want to fix those goofs before they happen by thinking four or five bricks ahead.
9. What is the craziest thing you have ever built as a Master Builder?
I was once asked to build a five foot long, three foot high, seventy pound taco. I'd love to know whatever happened to that one.
10. What question are you most often asked by fans? What do you reply?
There are three questions that you can count on when people see your work
a. How many brick?
b. Is it solid LEGO all the way through?
c. That's not really LEGO… is it?
11. Were you a LEGO fan as a child? What was your favorite theme?
Strangely, I didn't have any LEGO as a kid. Sure I played with it… my best friend Jeff had a sizable collection and we'd drag it out on a rainy afternoon to build houses and cars but I never really had any of my own. Most of my hours were spent drawing and reading comics. I didn't see the potential of LEGO as an art medium until I started working with the company.
12. What is your favorite memory from your time as a Master Builder?
I get to travel a lot as a Master Builder and I spent a week in Australia while planning a new exhibit of models for a wildlife park in Sydney. Between meetings, Steve (another one of our Master Builders) and I went for a dive in a shark tank. That was… unique. And I'd do it again.
13. If you were trapped on a desert island with an unlimited supply of bricks what would you make? Why?
A boat. A deserted island would be fun and perhaps relaxing for a few days, but yeah… ya gotta go home sometime.
14. Do you have any superpowers?
I'm a dog whisperer. Roman will do anything I ask (as long as there's a treat in it for him).
Interview with captainchespin (I have encountered problems with moving the interviews)
1. What is the story behind your username?
Well, as most of you guys probably know, I love Pirates of the Caribbean, so there's the 'Captain' part for you. The 'Chespin' part is from my favorite video game: Pokémon. (I also sort of stole the idea for my name from MasterOshawott. )
2. You’re a story writer. What is the best part about writing a story? What is the hardest part?
Oh, gosh. That's a toughy. Certainly the best part is being able to write about what I want to write... And then share it with everyone on here!
The hardest part... Sometimes--no, a lot of times it's just getting the inspiration to write!
3. What advice can you give to other users wanting to become an LMB story writer?
Hmm... I think the best advice I can give them is to just keep writing! Don't get discouraged if it's not popular at first. If you keep at it, people will notice it!
4. If you could have three LEGO wishes what would you wish for and why?
Well, my first one would be that LEGO would make a Flying Dutchman set. The second would be that I could have it. The third? That LEGO would make a new pirates theme!
5. You recently posted about enjoying some tasty treats. What food is your favorite and why?
Funny that you noticed that! I think my favorite food is either my grandma's chicken and dumplings or my mom's roast!
6. What forum is your favorite and why?
Probably the new Community Chat, because I can hang out with my friends!
7. Tell us something about yourself that we probably don’t know.
Well, a few of you guys know this *coughTolkiencough*, but I've been playing the piano since I was four!
8. If you were stranded on a deserted island with an unlimited supply of LEGO bricks what would you make and why? (Besides a boat. J)
I'd make a hammock so that I could relax.
9. If you were a Mod for a day what would you do? Why?
I think I would bring back the Pirates of the Caribbean forum! xD
10. What are your top three favorite LEGO sets. Why?
The Black Pearl, Helm's Deep, and the Millennium Falcon. Why? I own them all, and they are all so cool!
11. What LMB user has inspired you the most? How and why did they inspire you?
I think MasterOshawott and MichaelYoda. MO with her name and helpfulness, and MY with his dry sense of humor and kindness.
12. Do you have any superpowers?
Umm, I don't know about super powers, but I do have perfect pitch!
13. What would you like a future poll to be?
What is your favorite type of theme?
•Pirate
•Space
•Adventure
•Castle
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
If you could bring back one old theme and add one more set, what would it be?
15. Question from Ray-Comet: If you could change the name of the LMBs, what would you change it to?
Oh, I have no idea. xD Umm... Probably the LEGO Forums? I'm horrible at this.
THANK YOU SO MUCH! I was not expecting to find this in my email inbox. xD
1. Let me guess, you love dinosaurs! How did you choose your username?
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! NO it’s a....pteranodon? Of course! I've always liked dinosaurs, the LEGO Dino sets looked very interesting to me, but I never came around to getting one of the sets. The Spinosaurus is my favorite, I like the long snout, very much like a crocodile. CROCODILES ARE BETTER THAN ALLIGATORS!!! No offense WhiteAlligator. Anyway. How did I choose my username? Um, I don't really remember, I’ve used this name since the Jurassic age. I think it just sounded cool to me. Instead of "Rex" its "Dino X". Ooooh.
2. You are currently the most “liked” user in the Superheroes forum. Congrats! What is the secret to your success?
WOOHOO! I just always post a lot. I really like superheroes, and I can't wait to see the response's other people give. I'm ALWAYS on the superhero boards. My brother says I’m obsessed. I used to go on the LEGO Hero Factory Message Boards all the time. Not anymore though, the superheroes have corrupted me!
3. If you could be any superhero who would you choose? Why?
THE FLASH! He has amazing powers, SUPER-SPEED! I mean, he can run around the world in seconds! But I also like his costume. Superman is my second choice, he has super-speed and more. Also The Flash can eat a hundred hot-dogs in a few seconds. NOM NOM!
4. If you had to choose your absolute favorite, DC or Marvel? Why?
DC! I used to like MARVEL better, but as I grew older, I started liking DC better. Plus it has The Flash! The Flash has been my favorite since I very first saw The Justice League. DC is more serious, and it’s what started the whole comic-book superhero thing with a man of steel being stronger than a locomotive, faster than a speeding bullet, and can leap over tall buildings in a single bound. You know, all that jazz. MARVEL's still cool though.
5. When did you first join the LMBs? How did you learn about the community?
Once upon a time..... I joined 09-05-2009... when did I learn about the world of digital monsters? Oh wait, I mean the world of digital minifigs talking to each other about different topics? I don't know...
6. You write a cool superhero story called “The Red Blur.” What inspires you to write it? What is your favorite part of the story?
I'm inspired by The Flash, and the people who read it. It keeps me going and makes me happy. My favorite part of the story... um, probably the part that’s about to come, but if I had to choose an existing part. The part where The Speedster fights Simon Ecks and his squad of villains: Meltdown, Badgerstrike, and Doctor Polaris. Oh and Green Lantern will appear soon!
7. What would you do if you were a Mod for a day? Why?
Do cool things. Give everyone a "Super!" title. BECAUSE EVERYONE HERE IS SUPER!
8. What is your favorite hobby outside the LMBs? Why?
I play a lot of video games, and I collect LEGO's of course. What I want to do when I get older is work for LEGO!
9. Tell us two fun facts about you that we don’t already know.
#1 I'm tall and skinny. #2 I'm home schooled!
10. What was the first LEGO set you ever built? How did you get it? How did you enjoy the build?
I don't remember if it was Grevious's Starfighter or a Bionicle. It might've been Bionicle, then I got a bunch of Star Wars ones for Christmas. Like The Hyena Droid Bomber. It was very fun creating it.
11. If you had one LEGO wish what would you ask for? Why?
For me to have ALL DC CHARACTERS AS MINIFIGS!!! Ranging from Kid Flash, and Captain Cold. All the way to B'wana Beast, and Fisherman!!
12. Do you have any superpowers?
Yes. The power to be COOL! But I’m pretty sure everyone on the message boards has that power. Also the power to say "FISH POWAAA!!!" but everyone can do that too.
13. What would you like a future poll to be?
I didn't even realize that was there. It would be cool to see "Who can create the most LEGO sets in one hour? Superman or The Flash?"
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
What if you lived in a house where everything was made of LEGO?
15. Question from yogurtlegacy117: “What would be the first survival gear thing you would build if you were stuck in some icy mountains?
Um, a fire. A fire is key! You can cook, you can keep warm, and it serves as a beacon... bacon...beans?
Backlot, basically. I wanted an account to save my progress, and so I made a joint account with my bro and then went and made my own later. You can guess what it's called.
What do you think of the new LMBs?
I like them a LOT more. Crisper, more fresher to look at; an overall improvement.
What could we do to improve them for you personally?
CUSTOMIZATION. I did notice the MyProfile thing, and that's a definite start. I would absolutely adore more customizable widgets, like ones with a whole load of questions that you can type out your answers to. With them being moderated, of course.
What do you think of the new rank structure and are you happy with your current rank?
I personally do not fret over the ranks. I like them however whenever whatever. The different requirements for them do make them a little more fun to scope out and try and discover, but it's not a huge issue for me. And I like any, I guess.
What kind of things do you post?
Funny posts, most importantly. I mean, that's my trademark. Quality posts as well. I do make the occasional, slightly spammy post, but I make sure to counter that with articulate, thought-provoking posts whenever possible.
What kind of posts are you likely to give “likes” to?
Posts that make me laugh, smile and/or contemplate whatever the poster is trying to portray in his topic or reply or whatever.
Do you use the LEGO.com galleries? If so, which ones?
I USED to use the Creation Lab almost exclusively for MLN. XD I honestly haven't used them since then. Maybe I should...
If you could be any minifigure what would it be?
Basil the Bat Lord. All the way.
What is your favourite LEGO set?
Any Modular Building. Particularly the Pet Shop. The building process was unrealistically fun and sometimes I gaped in awe over the crazy realism to it. It's a also a hoot to dabble with.
What advice can you give to other users who admire your positive and friendly approach on the LMBs?
My golden rule for posting: if you haven't made a fun post in a while...do it. You can get bored with things unless if you see someone supply humor for a generally straight-faced deliberation. Whether it be a long speech, a carefully crafted roleplay post, or just a plain reply to a topic, I always try to insert any joke or gag I can muster. It makes serious things more joyful to experience. And it makes posting more fun when you see someone laugh at one of your cheesy or kingly comedy.
What would you like a future poll to be?
10: "Of all the sports, which is best? Tennis, tennis or tennis?"
JK. XD
Probably: "What was the best year for the MBs since the Great Migration?"
1. You are active in a few different roleplays. What is your favorite thing about roleplays on the LMBs?
Oh yes! Roleplays! Let’s see: The first I've done inspired me to build my characters. Causing me to come up with new ideas for the RP, causing me to build Characters again! I eventually migrated to other RP's and the cycle repeated! So yeah, I like the inspiration!
2. You have a unique username. What inspired it?
Actually, when I was little I made up a superhero who could talk to nice snakes! His name was (as you might have guessed) slippery-snake-boy! Then when I got a LEGO account my older brother entered that name for me.
3. You also have a pretty cool avatar. What inspired it?
Steampunk! A simple yet complex world where everything is steam powered, and almost everyone has a top hat!
4. You seem like a pretty big BIONICLE fan. Who is your all-time favorite BIONICLE character?
Vezon. In my opinion, He is the best LEGO character ever to be made! Whenever I look at him, I can’t help smiling back!
5. You also seem to be a big Dr. Who fan. What is your favorite thing about the doctor?
Yes, I am a HUGE Whovian! And the reason I like the doctor is inspiration. And seeing the inside of his TARDIS (time and relative dimension in space) caused me to build with LEGO in a whole new way!
6. What career do you hope to have in the future? Why did you choose that career?
Probably A LEGO designer, Yet I'm not sure if I have the skills to tackle building something impressive in five minutes! I'll just have to practice!
7. What is your favorite subject in school and why?
Science! I love the way this universe was built and want to discover more about it!
8. What was the last LEGO set you built? What did you think of it?
The last one I BUILT was technically Tahu mata from BIONICLE (and I like the technic build)... But the last set I BOUGHT and built was Ultra Agents Riverside Raid. And I liked the winch on the speeder and the stud shooters!
9. You have made almost 3,000 posts. That’s amazing! How do you find inspiration to create new posts every day?
3,000? What? I guess so! I'll bet most of those are Role Play posts... But I do like posting on the LMBs if I find something funny or good quality!
10. You’ve been on the LMBs for a long time. Congrats! What has been the biggest change during your time here?
Yeah, long time... but it feels like only a few weeks! As for a change, I think it is finding other people who share my ideas, and share their own!
11. Congrats on reaching Highland Battler! What is your secret to rank success?
Um, I don’t think it’s much of a secret, but I try to listen to the mods advice. "1. Be respectful (not hard with these users!), 2. Play fair, 3. Stay on topic, 4. Don't spam, 5. Stay safe (good rule!), 6. Be yourself (Very important rule!)
12. Answer quickly: round bricks or square bricks? Fruits or vegetables? Breakfast or dinner? Cats or dogs? Trees or flowers? Scary movie or funny movie? Hot or cold? Super heroes or super villains?
Uh! Square! Fruit! Breakfast! Cats! Trees! Scary (not too scary)! Cold! Heroes! Did I answer fast enough?
13. Do you have any superpowers? If so, what are they?
I can talk to snakes! But they can’t understand me like they do with the REAL slipperysnakeboy...
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
Alien invasion! If you had an unlimited amount of one LEGO element, Which one would it be?
15. Question from paperclip8707: Which retired LEGO theme would you like back the most?
The obvious answer for me is BIONICLE. So I'll give the next theme I'd bring back too; Space Police. They had great games and pieces!
1. You are new to the LMBs. What first inspired you to join the LMB community?
I actully have no idea but I like gaining ranks and helping users it makes me feel good!
2. You are active in several forums. How do you choose where to post?
I mostly post in the MB forum and LEGO General. I post there because I like LEGO in General and I like the MBs.
3. You recently started roleplaying. What about roleplay interests you? Do you plan to roleplay more in the future?
Um, hmm, at first I thought roleplaying looked dumb then I got into it now I enjoy it greatly. I have no idea why I changed my mind mybe it was because pacman87 was the leader of the first HQ I joined and he's really nice.
4. What is your favorite LEGO theme of all time? Why?
I really love all the LEGO themes but my favorite would be either Star Wars or Bionicle. The BIONICLE story was epic. Even my older brother who is 14 and does not play with LEGO thought it was awesome!
5. If you could be best friends with any minifigure which one would you choose? Why?
That's a hard one! How about the Hazmat Guy or a Jedi because the Jedi has a lightsaber and can smash things! The Hazmat Guy can go into toxic areas where you couldn't go if you didn't have a suit.
6. So far, what has been your favorite experience on the LMBs?
Like I said I love gaining ranks, but I also love posting and hanging out with my only freind MJL!
7. You recently opened a sig shop. How did you learn to make such awesome sigs?
WOW!!! You really like my sigs that much, thanks! I actully didn't learn to make them I only half learned. 8goldninja8 posted a bunch of cool sig charcters in the front of my sig shop because he wanted to make me a sig. Now I use his little chart for helping me make sigs. I also use my own letters!
8. Where did you get the idea for your username?
I think one day I just thought up of this random username and wanted a diffrent username for Minecraft (TM). I could't change my username so I used it for LEGO.com!
9. Do you have any super powers?
Actully I do, I have a really smart brain, like super duper smart! I guess that's not a super power but it will do for now!
10. What advice can you give to new users just learning about the LMBs?
Um this really helped me: just be active, post a lot, be helpful, give a ton of likes, and be funny! Also when I was a newb I kinda decided to ignore the ranks until later.
11. What would you like a future poll to be?
How many likes have you given?
12. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
What is the biggest tallest LEGO creation you ever built?!
13. Question from LEGOCritter35 and GideonF210: What was your very first LEGO creation that you built yourself?
I think I bought three LEGO Star Wars keychains: Kit Fisto, Luke Skywalker, and some green driod. I forgot his name.
Interview with knightoffaith (A popular LMO player)
1. How did you first hear about LMO and decide to play?
Well, I'm a really big fan of LEGO Universe, what it brought to the table, and the possibilities it offered. While I never got to play before it closed, I've watched all 30-something hours of Jamesster's walkthrough and I definitely got hooked on the whole thing. I believe around the middle of 2012, rumour of LOCO and LMO were bouncing around the LMBs a little bit, and everyone was definitely paying attention to Funcom's investor reports for more info on LMO. When the Gamescom presentation with gameplay footage was released in August 2013, this provided a perfect segway with LOCO coming from closed beta (which I got into as soon as it went public) to open beta, and LMO's closed beta launching, which I was in the final wave of. I must say, the more I heard, the more I was excited!
2. What trio of Minifigures do you like to play?
Well, for a while I've been with the Paintball Player, Grandpa, and Knight, but I've changed my striker to Galaxy Patrol. You may notice one thing in common about all of these—AoE (Area of Effect) attacks. I like to do as much damage to as many enemies at once as possible. I also like having a striker with a ranged attack, the GP can draw in baddies for a more effective AoE from other characters (as well as his), and you know, the knight.
3. Which world do you like most?
I'd have to say pirate world. It has the best atmosphere, and it's very well designed and put together. While it might not matter much to some other players, that's what really does it for me, the immersion and the feeling I get from it. (You know, that's what made LU so good!)
4. What Minifigure would you like to see in the game?
The Forestman or the Ninja figures from series one would be pretty neat.
5. What advice would you give new players in LMO?
Be smart. I've seen a number of people saying how it's too easy to get smashed, I generally don't get smashed much at all. There are a couple of things that help this. Having ranged and AoE attacks are good to inflict large damage from further away. Level up your character and your minifigures, including their passive abilities). Get health potions. I got the largest pack, and that is probably the #1 thing that prevents getting smashed by a tough crowd, even though it costs diamonds. Also, play in a group. It's more fun, and you have many different places that give and receive damage, spreading the load.
6. Which LMO boss was the toughest that you've smashed?
Probably the boss at the end of the Space World (hint, found out building the objects at the right time helps more than just your health!). Unless you count one zone in the epic dungeon there, though that isn't really a boss. Haven't been to Dino World yet, so I can't speak to that.
7. What’s your favorite LEGO set right now?
Tough question, as I haven't really gotten to look a lot into sets or actual LEGO building in general lately. However I can say that the new Santa's Workshop set looks cool, the return of Bionicle really has me stoked, MBA is really helpful, and there are definitely a lot of neat sets from new and old themes that I enjoy.
8. Are you part of any team or group in LMO?
Not at the moment. I've primarily been going around the LMO forum helping out with game questions and tech issues. As I have the knowledge to do that, I personally find that pretty important. There was talk of creating a Final Guard branch at one point, but that idea died when I had to go on my extended hiatus (maybe I'll try that again, no idea though). I would consider joining one of the many groups on the LMBs though. I would appreciate it if anyone would walk me through the different options, and what each one does. I'd be happy to jump onto as many as I can.
9. What was your most funny or awesome moment while playing the game?
Well, at one point when the OOB glitch was still a thing, I went too far and... Let's just say I was stuck in a green space in the middle of nowhere to the north of the LEGO Center.
10. Which Minifigure special attack is your favorite?
The best I've played with is Medusa's, but I haven't had her since closed beta. The Welder's and Dino Tracker's sound cool, but I haven't played with them so I'm not sure how good they are.
11. What type of adventure zone would you like to see in LMO?
Definitely something more open world. I personally find LMO being a dungeon-crawler is a HUGE setback. It just seems like new content is only a re-skin of what we've already had before, and it would also help if there was a stronger (overarching) story that really continued to develop throughout the game, as well as better RPG, creative, and questing mechanics. I also find just running a world from beginning to end a little too boring for my taste, I can't get as immersed. But, hey, I'm not in the target age group, so that's probably why I complain.
12. Answer quickly: Cake or ice cream? Baseball or basketball? Movies or TV? Building instructions or free building? Cats or dogs? Planes or boats? Breakfast or dinner? Math or science? Reading or writing?
Cake (Wegman's is awesome!).
Draw.
Draw (implementation is more important than that delivery).
Free building (with enough time, inspiration, and perhaps making it look professional as possible).
Cats (my bro's was so cute).
Boats (plane's science is cooler though).
They're both food, who cares?
Tech.
Draw.
13. Do you have any superpowers? If so, what are they?
Well, I'm able to learn pretty easily, and I do get high marks in school. But aside from that, I do a lot of media creation. I'm do 3D CGI and some game creation. I'm also a musician and amateur composer. I'll take this opportunity to push a LEGO media project I'm working on here on the LMBs as well. Check out the Imagatrix War here: community.lego.com/t5/LEGO-General/The-Imagatrix-War-A-Fan-Project-LEGO-MMO/m-p/6578800/highlight/true#M88015. If you don't care to read through a full 70 pages of history, just change the post ID at the end to #M252494, read the overview there, and skim the rest. We're looking for anyone interested in creating the game, especially concept & environment artists right now. We're also going to be creating an all-purpose media organization that will cover many different kinds of LEGO based media, but that's still being worked out (keep an eye out!).
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
What is your favorite music released by LEGO? Doesn't need to be an original song, it could be one they've used (ie Cryoshell).
15. Question from slippersnakeboy: Alien invasion! If you had an unlimited amount of one LEGO element, which one would it be?
If I had unlimited time, a 2X4 brick. It has a large number of connection points yet is still very versatile. However, if I'm in a time crunch, I'd go with the longest 2 stud wide brick, or maybe 4 stud wide to go faster.
I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you all to keep being creative. LEGO and their partners have provided many amazing tools and software, and I do hope they expand their services to the full extent of where it could be, allowing a lot of different kinds of creations to come to life and people to make more together. However, even now there are many possibilities. You have models and fanfics, but also physical and computer drawings, comics, stop motions, animated videos, games, music, and so many other things. That's what my goal will be in creating the new organization I talked about. To create! Also, if you have anything you wish to ask me, please do.
When I was making my account, I couldn't think of a username. I didn't want a common name that had to do with LEGO, I wanted a random name that people would remember. Then I saw a paperclip on my desk, and the rest is history.
2. You are active all over the boards. What is your favorite forum to post in? Why?
My favorite would definitely be the [Community Chat forum]. I remember when I was a newbie and I ventured into that forum, along with the Brick Boards, and I saw all these famous users posting. I was in awe at all of these topics with 100s and 100s of pages. For a newbie who was mainly active in the Technic forum, I was amazed. I started posting there, and have been mainly active in that forum ever since. It's like the city square of a town where everyone comes together for social gatherings, celebrations, etc.
3. Congrats on reaching rank Aztec Warrior! What do you think is the secret to gaining ranks?
Thanks! I think the secret to gaining ranks is composed of many factors, including posts, likes, time spent, likes given, and consecutive days active.
4. You’ve been a member of this community for a long time now. What has inspired you to stick around so long?
I've stayed because I like to see how the MBs are changing, which new users are coming in, but mostly because it's just fun to post here.
5. What is your favorite subject in school? Why?
Marching band. I have so many good friends in that class, I love to play music, and everyone in that class is nonjudgmental. They don't care about how weird you are.
6. What is your hidden talent? How did you get so good at it?
My hidden talent would be origami. Whenever I'm bored in school, which is a lot, I rip out some notebook paper and create things.
7. If you could go on any real life adventure what would it be? Why?
I would love to be in a band and tour the world. Making money doing what I love, with fans everywhere, getting invited to TV shows, talk shows, interviews (), and going to all kinds of different places. Another thing I would like to do would be to be a professional in a sport, maybe baseball, cricket, or golf.
8. What kind of posts do you give “likes” to? Why?
I give likes to funny posts, informative posts, celebratory posts, and posts that mention me.
9. What is the best thing that has ever happened to you on the LMBs? Why is it the best?
The last night before the MBs went down to get updated. The mod party was amazing, everyone was having real-time conversations, just messing around, and we were excited about what was to come next.
10. What would you do if you were a Mod for a day?
I would find the rank requirements and live a content life knowing that I'm one of the only people who knows them.
11. What advice would you give to a brand new user just joining our community?
Hang out in the Help and Suggestions forum, you'll learn a lot from there. Also, if you want to get popular quick, post in the Community Chat forum.
12. Do you have any superpowers?
Yes actually, I have the ability to not feel pain when stepping on [LEGO pieces]. Of course, I don't purposely step on them, but they don't really faze me when I do.
13. What would you like a future poll to be?
How about "Who will win the 2014 World Series?" Don't forget to put the Mariners as one of the options.
14. What LEGO-related question do you have for the next interviewee?
Which retired LEGO theme would you like back the most?
15. Question from NINJAGOgirl2363: If you could choose any job at LEGO, what would it be?
I think every child's dream is to become a LEGO designer. You get to build and create things for a living!
Interview with Packaging Art Director Bill words from WA: "Next up in our special employee interview series is Bill.
He is an Art Director on Packaging who worked on creating the boxes for The LEGO Movie sets. That means that he is responsible for designing the very creative, eye-catching designs that cover LEGO boxes around the world!
Check out his super cool interview below to learn all about his very unique role here at the LEGO Company"
1. Tell us about your job as an Art Director on LEGO packaging.
My job as an Art Director on LEGO packaging is a ton of fun! We get to work with the newest LEGO models before most anyone else, and we help to bring their stories to life on toy store shelves across the globe!
2. What goes into designing the packaging? How long does it take to complete one design?
Typically we are working on many packages at once, so it is hard to say exactly how much time is spent on any one piece itself. Our package designers are actually only part of the team that brings the packaging to life. We work closely with several other teams including model designers, marketers, project managers, and outside vendors to ensure that everyone’s vision for the product is realized in the final design. Overall, the packaging process takes about 6 months from start to finish, with several check-in points along the way. Some of these check points would include our first layout, a round of revisions, final layout, then the final photography, and final artwork. Many people are involved in the process along the way and help us get the package’s artwork to the finish line!
3. What is the best part of being an Art Director? What is the toughest part?
The best part of being an Art Director at LEGO is simply doing my job! I couldn’t ask for a better experience, as I get to be creative on a daily basis! I am constantly working with photography, design applications, 3D programs, and the LEGO models too! The toughest part would have to be trying to fit all of the awesome stuff that you get inside the box, into the package design! Many of our models have several parts, and we like to show as much as we can on the packaging, so you know what you get inside the box. Finding a way to tell a compelling story, and yet display all of the pieces can be like one big giant puzzle! And even though I think it’s the toughest part of our job, I love the challenge it creates with each new package!
4. What inspired you to go for such a unique role? Did you need any special education to qualify for it?
Growing up, I always enjoyed being creative… whether that was writing stories with my friends, or making championship belts for our own fake wrestling leagues! I loved to create any idea I had in my head and share it with others. I attended college in pursuit of a graphic design degree, however I left to pursue a full time graphic design position with a local company. Everyone learns in different ways, and I preferred to explore a more hands on approach to further learn my craft. I worked as a freelance designer for several years before I joined the LEGO team!
5. What is your absolute favorite memory from working on TLM?
My favorite memory from working on The LEGO Movie has to be getting to watch the film at various stages of its production. Since our packaging was designed to closely resemble the movie itself, we were able to see the film at some early stages that viewers typically don’t get a chance to see. I saw the movie about 3-4 times before it was released, and it was amazing to see the progress it made each time!
6. Was TLM your first project or have you worked on other themes too? If so, which ones?
I started on the LEGO Super Heroes team shortly before I moved over to be a part of The LEGO Movie team. And now that the project has ended, I am an Art Director for LEGO Star Wars!
7. If you could be any TLM character who would you be and why?
If I could be any character from The LEGO Movie, I think I would be Batman, because I only work in black… and sometimes very, very dark grey… Just kidding! I have to work with lots of colors for LEGO packaging… but I’d still like to be Batman!
8. What advice can you give to young builders hoping to be LEGO designers like you one day?
Keep on buildin’! Your passion is the key to becoming what you want. If you are passionate about something… stay focused, and work hard at it! You are the only one who can make it happen! A great quote I’d like to pass along is “Find something you love to do, and you’ll never work a day in your life.”
9. Answer quickly: winter or summer? Ice cream or cake? Cats or dogs? TV or movies? Writing or drawing? Play sports or watch them? Building instructions or free build?
Ahhhh… this one’s easy! Summer… Ice Cream… Dog-sized cats… Movies… Writing… I love playing and watching sports!... Free bird!… errr build!
10. Do you have any super powers?
How did you know?!?! My super powers include dramatically lighting and posing LEGO models, creating swoosh marks, laser blasts, explosions, engine flames, and lightsaber glows… and also, I am a certified silho-machine! If you’re wondering what that is… it basically that means I am extremely awesome at cutting things out… with my heat vision of course ;-)
