Meet Gina Gonsalves | Animator & Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gina Gonsalves and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gina, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
My decision to pursue an artistic career actually was not an easy decision for me initially. I always loved drawing and art, since I was a toddler, and I always wanted to do something in animation. But once I got to high school/college, I unfortunately faced a lot of judgement and criticism from people, like many artists do, when I initially had thought about pursuing it. I really let it get to me for a long time when people would say things that made me feel like I wasn’t good enough, it was unattainable, or a “useless” career. Some examples of remarks I’ve received include “Are you sure you’ll be good enough?”, or “I guess you can get artsy flipping burgers.” These comments really weighed on me, so I initially took another route. I actually studied kinesiology for 3 years, while taking art classes to keep me sane. I realized how much I loved taking the art classes and it made me resent my decision to do something I wasn’t passionate about. I decided to take a risk and switch majors a year before graduating, no matter the criticism I faced. This has completely changed the trajectory of my life and since then, I have felt like being honest with myself, having confidence in my decision, and allowing myself to pursue what I love was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a recent graduate from USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, I received my Master of Fine Arts degree in Animation in May 2022. This was a huge accomplishment for me, looking back on those years I struggled to see my worth as an artist and was afraid to pursue it. My master’s thesis was a short film where I took a really deep look into my past, identified the major events and emotions that have shaped me as an individual and portrayed them in a way I felt could resonate with the world. I am a huge advocate for mental health and throughout my own journey, I have learned that vulnerability has such a way of connecting with others, so I tried my best to implement that into my film. I am currently looking to work for a studio where I can contribute to emotional stories that inspire and resonate with the world, make people feel seen and inspire others to pursue what they love. I would love to do 3D animation but I am also interested in most areas of the CG pipeline, from visual development to animation and lighting.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
On a week long tour of LA with my best friend, I would start with a sunrise hike to the Hollywood sign. This was one of the best hikes I’ve ever done and standing above the Hollywood sign is such a surreal feeling! Especially seeing the sunrise over Los Angeles. I would then take them to Griffith Observatory. This has been one of my favorite places since moving here from Northern California and the incredible view never disappoints. Then when the evening comes, I would take them to Rooftop Cinema Club in Downtown Los Angeles and watch an iconic movie in an epic environment. Another day, I would take them to the iconic Last Bookstore, grab some lunch at the Grand Central Market (where there are endless options!), then head to The Broad or LACMA museums. I would spend a day out in Malibu wine tasting at Malibu Wines & Beer Garden and going to Malibu Beach until sunset. I would also take a trip down to Anaheim and spend the day in Disneyland/California Adventure, riding roller coasters and enjoying Dole Whips! And if their visit is at just the right time of year, I would love to take them to the Los Angeles FoodieLand Night Market at the Rose Bowl Stadium!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to credit the USC School of Cinematic Arts and the professors in the Animation Department. This program saw potential in me when I didn’t see it in myself. I spent my whole first year struggling with severe imposter syndrome, wondering how on Earth I belonged there. But with every semester, every class, every project; I gained more confidence in myself and found my voice as an artist. The endless support, constructiveness, and collaboration was everything I needed and more. I can’t credit them enough for giving me the chance I needed.

Website: https://ginagonsalves95.wixsite.com/mysite

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-gonsalves-603404198/

Image Credits
Brandon Kakudo