Where are you currently employed?
I am a freelance Foley Artist. Have shoes will travel! I work at all the major studios. I also own my own boutique Foley stage, The Sync Tank.
Current Project?
The bulk of my work these days is in television. During the slower summer season, I try to pick up a feature or two, but TV is my bread and butter.
Describe Your Job.
I physically recreate sound effects in sync with picture. Foley incorporates all character footsteps and organic sounds that would not be covered by a sound effects editor. Essentially, anything a character eats, drinks, sits on, falls on, touches or manipulates in any way is fair game for the Foley Artist. It's important to note that Foley is not a solo sport! The team is so important. Foley is truly a collaborative effort.
How did you first become interested in this line of work?
I began my career as a story editor on soap operas at NBC and later moved into feature film development. I was introduced to Foley by my husband at the time, who is a sound editor. I loved the physicality and creativity of Foley and became obsessed with learning the craft! When my daughter was born, I decided to leave feature development and focus on Foley.
Who gave you your first break?
It has taken a village! Sound Supervisor Tom Davis (currently on Grey's Anatomy) gave me my first Foley gig, but it was an executive at Warner Bros. who opened the door for me to train with some of the best Foley artists in the business. I am proud of the training I received at Warner Bros. — this was invaluable in my evolution as an artist.
What was your first union job?
I started in Foley before Foley Artists had their own union classification. When we were finally accepted into the Guild, I was already well established at Warners.
Which of your credits or projects have made you the most proud and why?
I am genuinely proud of most of the work I do! Time is always a factor, but my passion for this craft drives me no matter what the budget. While I work mostly in TV, I give the same attention to detail on a sitcom or a cartoon or an action drama that I would on a feature. I won an Emmy and an MPSE Golden Reel for the HBO miniseries The Pacific. This World War II drama posed a lot of Foley challenges! As did a feature film, The Seventh Son, to be released in February, with Julianne Moore and Jeff Bridges. A fantasy with bigger-than-life creatures and magical moments, the film stretched our imagination to create the sounds of its mythical world.
What was your biggest challenge in your job (or on a particular project) and how did you
overcome/solve it?
The biggest challenge is to think quickly on your feet and find the perfect prop or surface — or shoe for footsteps — that will create the sound that most naturally blends with production.
What was the most fun you’ve had at work?
When stuck in a dark room with two other people, often covered in dirt or exhausted from the day’s work, a sense of humor is imperative! People think Foley looks like fun and, on most days, I have to agree. I feel very fortunate to have this job — we have fun and get paid to do it.
Jobwise, what do you hope to be doing five years from now?
I hope to be doing exactly what I'm doing now! I have been so fortunate to learn from and work alongside many of the best artists and mixers in the business and I look forward to continuing.
What are your outside activities, hobbies, passions?
For many years, I have volunteered with a wonderful organization called United in Harmony that offers outdoor camping and mentoring experiences to homeless children throughout Los Angeles. I have witnessed first-hand that giving back does make a difference in the lives of children less fortunate. I’m passionate about my volunteer work and encourage everyone to find the time to give to others.
In my community, I am president of the neighborhood association and a vocal environmental activist. Fighting developers and politicians to protect the Santa Monica Mountains for future generations is no easy task! Since very young, I have been an avid snow skier. In Southern California, this translates to rollerblading too. My husband, David Jobe, also does Foley as a mixer at Technicolor. Together we love music, food, travel and outdoor adventures of all kinds.
Favorite movie(s)? Why?
The VCR was one of my generation’s greatest inventions! I have too many favorite films to list here, but movies have played a role in anchoring life’s milestones, memories and traditions. I gravitate more towards the smaller, uplifting, character-generated stories than the big action stuff. I am a fan of great storytelling.
Favorite TV program(s)? Why?
As far as favorite television goes, let’s just say I love the medium! As a little kid, I always wanted to work in television.
Do you have an industry mentor?
One thing about Foley is that the craft, along with technology, is constantly evolving. I’m not one of the “lone wolf” Foley artists — I value what each member of the team brings to the project. Being freelance, I am able to learn from the best artists all over town!
What advice would you offer to someone interested in pursuing your line of work?
Foley is a tricky niche to break into. My best advice is to be patient. While it may look easy, Foley takes a long time to get good at. A solid work ethic, professionalism and a healthy dose of humility come in handy in whatever career you pursue. This is especially true in Foley.
Was there ever a circumstance when you had to rely on the Guild for help or assistance?
No — but there is comfort in knowing that should a situation arise, I have somewhere to go to help navigate the waters!
Is there anything you’d like to say to your fellow Guild members, some words of encouragement?
Do what you love, love what you do. I feel so blessed to work in a creative industry that brings entertainment to people’s daily lives. We are a family of sorts. While it may be dysfunctional at times, we put the fun in dysfunction! The Golden Rule can make a difference in securing a long career in the industry we love.
Compiled by Edward Landler
Editor’s Note: To recommend a member (including yourself) to be featured on the home page of the Editors Guild website contact edlandler@roadrunner.com.