Not often do we find living in our own backyard the level of artistic talent that is Troy Quane.  Internationally acclaimed illustrator and storyboard artist of feature films and television, Quane is humbled by his achievements.  Living in Tansley Woods with wife, Vittoria and their 2 children, they are not unlike any other young and thriving family playing in the parks and dining downtown.  What is unique, however, is Troy’s relationship with Burlington.  It is a personal one…as he chose Burlington to be his home. 

From an early age, Quane knew what he wanted to do in life. “I loved cartoons and drawing, and when I would find myself doodling in math class I pretty much knew I was not going to be an accountant.”   Toronto raised, Sheridan College was an obvious choice to hone his skills. Offering the top animation curriculum in Canada, it was here that Troy first met the girl that would eventually become his wife. Having excelled in the Sheridan program, he took a downtown job with Phoenix Animation, only to find the same young lady.  “It was at Phoenix that Vittoria and I began our relationship.”

Deeply entrenched in the world of animation, it was not long before the Quane's would pack up and move to where the work was. “The climb has been a gradual one,” says Quane, “but my real start began when working on ‘The Wild’ for Disney.”  San Francisco based, this move would prove a golden opportunity for Troy to work with director, Kevin Lima.  “My job was as animator, but when production problems arose I was called in to smooth the story with Kevin.”  It was soon thereafter Disney’s ‘Enchanted’ was underway, when Lima recommended Quane as Storyboard Supervisor. Disney said yes…and it just doesn’t get much better than that!

With today’s technology comes a newfound freedom to choose one’s workplace. Though meetings and travel may at times be necessary, many of us are able to base our work from our homes.  Such is the case with the Quane’s.  “Work comes through Toronto, allowing us to live where we choose…and we choose Burlington.” Home to Troy, Vittoria, Holden and Ava is of utmost importance. “We love it here as it gives us everything we need as a family. It is safe and has an abundance of green space.”  With 2 very athletic children, the family are regulars at the community Rec Centre. “My kids love soccer and swimming… everything they need is local, including an easily accessible Montessori School.”

Burlington’s appeal is a city on the lake, where village charm and modern living meet. The Quane’s take delight in the combination of trendy boutiques and assorted restaurants.

They can often be seen dining at DiMario’s Trattoria on Lakeshore or Siam Dish for Thai. “Sometimes we’ll go downtown for a walk or to see the lights at Christmas. We love being by the lake and can’t keep the kids away from Spencer Park.”

The Quane family have created a good life in Burlington.  Drawn to outdoor living spaces, Troy has great respect for the development and planning of his city.  “It’s as if they still pay deep attention to keeping Burlington alive…city planning has taken a caring interest, and it shows.  They give way to expansion yet keep in tact what is important.”

Meanwhile at the Quane’s creative homestead, Vittoria is busy working on her next project, Disney’s ‘The Princess and the Frog’, and Troy continues his rise to fame. Currently enjoying success with ‘Total Drama Island’, Teletoon’s number 1 rated show, and anticipating the release next year of ‘9’, a Focus feature film…life is good in Tansley Woods.  Quane says it best. “Burlington gives us the flexibility and access to enjoy life.  What better place to be creative than in the one that makes you happy.”