Student, Animation Major

November 2021,  Interview facilitated by Tracey Miller-Zarneke

What is your earliest memory of being interested in animation?

My earliest memory of being interested in animation is watching Adventure Time and Bravest Warriors when I was 12. I realized it combined everything I loved: science, writing, and drawing. I started my interest for 3D animation in 2015, when Inside Out and Miraculous Ladybug came out. In 2017, I had my first 3D animation class in High School.

What is your favorite animated movie or animated character, and why?

My favorite movie is Soul. It has changed the way I view life and accomplishments. I’ve come to realize my worth is not dependent on the awards I win, the places I work, or the skills I have. I understand that even if I don’t achieve everything I dream of, my greatest accomplishment will always be living.

Who or what inspires your work?

All of the Women in Animation, Rise Up Animation, and Latinx in Animation community. Participating in these organizations has helped me push myself forward and raise awareness to social issues within my work. Listening to podcasts by Pete Docter and videos by Anna Akana also inspires me to focus my art on topics that matter.

Why is an organization like Women In Animation important to you?

WIA is important to me because it creates a community of people who pass through the same struggles and enables us to empower each other to thrive on an industry that was previously dominated by men.

How long have you been a member of WIA?

I’ve been a member since 2019! I found WIA while doing a scholarship search and it’s been wonderful ever since.

What have you enjoyed most about being part of WIA?

My favorite part about WIA is being able to volunteer as Video Editor and Event Moderator. I’ve had the most fun going to events such as scavenger hunt and while moderating the Career Fair. I met amazing people!

Where are you studying?

I’m currently an animation major at Brigham Young University.

What part of your studies have you enjoyed the most?

I have found I enjoy learning about texturing/shading characters and sets. I love being able to tell a story within each layer. However, my favorite part of being a student is having a community of young artists surrounding you, where we help each other grow.

What do you see for yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

I see myself being a Look Development Artist for animated feature films. In addition, I hope to be a mentor for young artists as I grow throughout my career.

Any other insights or experiences regarding your pursuit of an education leading to work in animation that you would like to share with our membership?

One of the main reasons my family and I moved from Brazil to The United States was to pursue a better art education for me. Ever since I got here, I am happy to have had the resources I need to pursue what I love. I recognize not everyone around the world has access to the same resources. It is important for me to use my future professional experiences to give them the same opportunities I have.