Tell us a little about yourself and your career.
Originally from India, I moved to the U.S. in 2017 to pursue my dream to work in feature animation. I spend every day finding ways to move closer to that goal. Since 2019, I’ve worked on several animated TV shows for studios like Nickelodeon, Rooster Teeth, and Wild Canary Animation. I’m really passionate about storyboarding as it helps me combine two of my favorite things, storytelling and drawing together. I also love that studying film sequences is a part of my job. In the near future, I hope to work for a feature film that I can be proud of, that leaves a lasting impact on audiences for years after it’s released, and that possibly motivates someone to dream of working in this industry.
What challenges have you faced in navigating a career in animation?
I think one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is keeping consistent employment in this project-based industry. This is especially crucial to me as an immigrant, since we have to be continuously employed to be able to stay in the country. This pushes me to stay on top of my game by constantly making new connections, and keeping track of new job opportunities posted at multiple studios. Although I had professional experience back in India, I realized that the method of working here is very different from how things function back home. Over the past two years, I’ve worked hard at adapting to a different work environment and culture. I’m grateful to my peers and supervisors for being patient with me, and helping me achieve my professional goals.
Who are your inspirations in the field of animation?
Some of my biggest inspirations come from the movies that left a lasting impact on me growing up and made me want to work in this industry. The ones that instantly come to mind are Finding Nemo, Ratatouille, and Kung Fu Panda. The common thread in all these movies is an underdog who fights against all odds to achieve success. The protagonists are kind, humble, and keep their friends and family close while achieving their goals. Characters like Marlin, Remy, and Po made me realize that you don’t have to be ruthless and a horrible person to get ahead in life.
What do you hope to accomplish as an artist in the animation industry?
I spent the past year directing a short film, Fitting In, and working with an incredible team of artists. I’m also editing this film and working with a sound designer on the music. My producer has been instrumental in helping me stay organized and keep track of time allotted to the project. This experience has made me realize that I like working with a team and creating my own stories. In the future, I’d love to direct my own show or short film for a studio. I think I work well with people, and I’m excited by the possibility of working with writers, producers, editors, and sound designers. I’ve seen a lot of storyboard artists transition into director positions, and I hope to follow a similar route.
What does being in the Union mean to you?
I’ve been a part of the Union for a year, and the resources offered by the Guild made my transition from student to professional a lot easier. I feel like there is a lot I don’t know when it comes to artists’ rights and the benefits I’m eligible for. The Guild members have been super helpful in helping me navigate through this process. I hope to actively participate in the Guild, as I see it as a great opportunity to help other artists. I love hearing stories from other artists and understanding the experiences that helped shape their career paths. I’m inspired by people who stay involved in the Guild while also working on a day job. I hope to contribute in some way to the industry that has given me so much to be thankful for over the past couple of years.
Learn more about Gaitonde at her website.
Follow her on Instagram at apoorva_gaitonde.
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