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

Hi Kandis, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
The number one thing most people are unaware of is how much time and energy going into creating various projects. Audiences will go to a movie, consume it in an hour and a half, but not realize, films take years to develop and produce, there are so many moving parts! This is exacerbated by social media, creating a real disconnect between viewers and creators. We see this across industries, most notably in the food industry. In film, and ESPECIALLY animation, projects can take years in development, and production is usually a minimum of two years. From concept to screen it’s usually 3-5 years, so sometimes it’s hard for projects to truly reflect the times, you have to kind of be ahead of the curve in that regard.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a writer/director just like thousands of other folks in LA. I’m most proud and excited about filming my short, Edible, during the pandemic. I am also really proud of where I am in my career. I never saw myself in the animation field, but have been able to build quite the resume over the last five years. It definitely has not been easy, but the key is to trusting yourself. My company, Intermatic, is all about doing the deep shadow work that most people often avoid. People avoid this kind of work and self improvement because it’s hard, but it’s the most rewarding.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First stop is the beach; Santa Monica or Malibu. I love hanging out in my neighborhood, Koreatown. There are so many great restaurants and coffee shops. Chapman plaza is such a hip spot. I’d also take them to Leimert for the markets and delicious food, I’m definitely stopping at Ackee Bamboo for their Sunday Special. LA also has some amazing cocktails. Tacos Tu Madre for some creative fusion eats, and Taco Sinaloa Truck for something more traditional. The Khao Soi at Spicy BBQ is incredible and sweet treats from Erin McKennas! I’d also take them on some of the gorgeous hiking trails or a secret stair walk for an adventure off the beaten path!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shout out my amazingly supportive community, especially everyone who got behind Edible and my super dedicated and ultra talented cast and crew. And the support and mentorship of Women of Color Unite and their Start with 8 initiative.

Website: www.kandiswithak.com

Instagram: instagram.com/kandis.with.a.k

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaLMdAPTpJ_DqKnX80LdTOQ

Image Credits
Photos by Urs Casper Mann

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.