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

Hi Shantishree, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
My fascination with art and creativity began with nature. My adventure began in my childhood. While swimming with my grandfather on his farm in the countryside, a vibrant fish approached, startling me. I gasped for help. Within two minutes, he waved it away. Amidst all the chaos, the picturesque frame of that fish in an oxbow blue river created in 120 seconds lingered with me. I spent the entire summer explaining nature’s colorful marvels to everyone by painting the fish. I submitted this recollection’s painting to a competition displayed at an exhibition in Australia. At the age of six, that was the most significant feat of my life.

As the years unfolded, my passion for artistic expression grew stronger, expanding to encompass the realms of performing arts, dance, and music. Art, I discovered, knows no bounds—it is an idea waiting to take shape, molded by its creator’s unique vision. With each new artistic pursuit, I drew deeper into storytelling, learning to convey narratives not through words alone but through the very essence of space and design. Exploring new places became a journey of discovery, each location offering its own tale and emotions to evoke.

Ultimately, my passion for storytelling encouraged me to pursue architecture. A way to create a space that will be a medium of storytelling. Providing a space where you will meet your emotions and comfort! Each space defines a different story and stimulates distinct emotions. Studying architecture was one of my most challenging, time-consuming, exciting, and memorable endeavors. Yet, my passion extended beyond creating spaces; I wanted to evoke emotions and stories through my designs. This inspired me to pursue a master’s in production design and filmmaking.

And so, from the tranquil waters of my childhood to the soaring heights of architectural achievement, my journey continues—a testament to the abiding power of art to inspire, captivate, and tell the stories that lie within us all.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In the glowing halls of Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, I proudly graduated on May 18th, the culmination of years of hard work and passion. Looking back on this incredible journey, I’m deeply grateful for the unique experiences and amazing people I’ve met.

As a freshly graduated filmmaker, I’m excited to dive into the real world, eager to find work that ignites my passion. In production design, my chosen field, I team up closely with directors and cinematographers to bring their visions to life on screen. With my architecture background, the design process feels like second nature, despite the challenges I faced during my studies in India.

Studying architecture sparked my journey into production design—a challenging but rewarding path that taught me discipline and resilience. Amidst the challenges, I found comfort in the arts, dancing, and acting through tough times. Balancing my love for art with the demands of architecture was challenging. But it taught me invaluable discipline, perseverance, and creative problem-solving lessons.

In my society, pursuing film education overseas isn’t the norm for a traditionally-minded family like mine. Stability and predictable income are valued over creative pursuits. Despite their concerns, my family supported my passion for art, allowing me to pursue film education abroad after seeing my dedication and consistency.

As I gear up to enter the professional world, I carry with me the lessons learned and the love of my family. With an insatiable curiosity and a burning passion for creativity, I’m ready to leave my mark in the world of production design.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Knowing my friends with the same taste as me, I would start the day by taking them to my school’s scene shop and other technical areas. We’ll roll up our sleeves and get creative, maybe even build something together! All my friends are into art and would love to do it hands-on. After that, we’ll head to Orange Circle, a cozy spot where we’ll sit and watch the world go by, chatting and laughing for hours.

Then, we’ll explore the local coffee shops and visit Laguna Beach to admire the sea, nature, and art. We might check out some art galleries in Orange, like OCMA and Noguchi Garden, enjoying Greenhouse coffee.
In LA, we’ll marvel at the architectural wonders downtown, from the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad to The Academy Museum and Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple. We’ll wander the streets, discovering new places and making memories together.

In the end, it’s the simple moments with friends that will mean the most. Whether creating, exploring, or just enjoying each other’s company, we’ll cherish every moment together. Maybe one day we’ll find ourselves on a beach, doing nothing at all, just happy to be with each other.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Abhaykumar Sidgonda Patil and Trishala Abhaykumar Patil, my parents, are the architects of my soul. AAI’s role as a homemaker goes beyond words; her tireless efforts in running our household, always with a smile, and her ability to put our needs before her own have been a source of inspiration. Her unwavering support and belief in me, even during challenging times, have given me the strength to persevere.

BABA, with his endless love and dedication, has ensured that our family’s happiness knows no bounds. He has been my guiding light, illuminating the darkest of paths with his love His selflessness, especially during the heart-wrenching days of my visa denial, where he stood by me, offering unwavering support and encouragement, has left an indelible mark on my heart.

Tejal, my ‘cute little’ elder sister, has been my partner in both mischief and resilience. Through our shared experiences and challenges, we’ve grown together, creating cherished memories that continue to bring joy to my heart.

My grandparents have been our guiding stars, showering us love and wisdom. Their presence fills our lives with warmth, and their experiences are an endless source of inspiration. If I could be even half as healthy and composed as they are today, I would count myself truly blessed.

Moreover, my extended family from India, including the Ingales, as well as my closest architectural friends, hometown buddies, colleagues, and all who supported my daring journey, hold a special place in my heart. Your unwavering belief in me and your constant encouragement have been the fuel for my dreams. Thank you, from the depths of my soul.

Together, they form the tapestry of my existence, weaving threads of love, sacrifice, and resilience. Their love is the canvas upon which my life’s masterpiece is painted, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Instagram: shanto_enart1997

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/shantishree-patil-533124220

Image Credits
BTS / Stills by Chaewon Suh, Ridhi Bhalla and Art by me

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