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

Hi Prashanth, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
With a background in Mechanical Engineering, art, for me, unfolds as an ongoing puzzle-solving adventure where there’s never just one ‘right’ approach. It’s a realm of expression that opens the floodgates to infinite possibilities. Each artwork is a unique endeavor, and that inherent diversity is what resonated with me from the outset.

What has remained a constant thread from my early days to the present is the realization that engaging in the art-making process transports you into an enjoyable meditative state, evolving into a therapeutic practice over the years. This intrinsic quality played a pivotal role in steering me toward this field, and the magnetic pull of animation keeps me captivated.

The ability to forge an emotional connection with the audience, weaving narratives that evoke empathy, is exceptionally rewarding. This connection fuels my passion, making every venture into the world of animation an irresistible and fulfilling journey.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Hailing from Bangalore, a vibrant city in Southern India, my journey post-engineering in 2003 initially led me towards the tech industry, aligning with the prevalent trend. However, a pivotal realization occurred during a job interview with a top tech company – I discerned that my true passion did not lie in the tech realm. This marked a decisive moment where I identified what I didn’t want in my professional life but needed to ascertain my true calling.

Having previously paused a course in Computer Graphics to maintain focus during engineering studies, an inner voice urged me to revisit this interest. With no concrete plan in mind, I enrolled in the course, hoping it would redirect my professional trajectory.

Fortunately, the institute allowed me to resume the Computer Graphics course, and within a few months, I became captivated by the intricacies of three-dimensional space and the endless possibilities it offered for creating immersive worlds and compelling narratives. Computer Graphics gradually evolved into a comforting realm for me.

Securing my first opportunity in the industry, I later ventured into entrepreneurship, co-founding a startup catering to clients in the Gaming and Design Visualization sectors. Despite succumbing to the challenges of the 2008 recession, this setback prompted me to specialize in a particularly demanding facet of Computer Graphics – Character Animation, the art of imbuing digital puppets with lifelike movements and emotions.

Driven by the belief that choosing challenges leads to boundless improvement, I enrolled in AnimationMentor.com. The program equipped me with essential skills and facilitated the development of a portfolio that eventually landed me a breakthrough in 2009 with the DreamWorks India Unit, conveniently located in my hometown, Bangalore.

Over the ensuing eight years, I progressed from a Junior animator to a Lead and, ultimately, an Animation Supervisor on a Hollywood Animated Feature. While DreamWorks proved to be an incredible workplace, its closure transpired when NBCUniversal acquired the company.

Subsequently, I briefly ventured into VFX animation with Framestore in London. However, my journey took an unexpected turn in 2018 when DreamWorks beckoned me back to Los Angeles, California.

Reflecting on the past five years, this period has been a joyous homecoming for me. I take pride in contributing to the animation of the Oscar-nominated movie “Puss In Boots: The Last Wish.” Working daily alongside some of the industry’s finest talents on acclaimed animated feature film franchises like Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar and Trolls to name a few is an honor I cherish. Today, I find fulfillment in being part of the creative force that brings these captivating stories to life.

I recently got nominated for the prestigious Annie Awards, acknowledging my role in the film ‘Ruby Gillman Teenage Kraken.’ With widespread global recognition and the participation of top-tier talents from around the world, this nomination stands out as a noteworthy achievement in my professional trajectory.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m totally smitten with LA – the perpetual sunshine and its stellar location make it a playground for adventures! Picture this: hiking escapades up Griffith Park to conquer Mt Hollywood, unveiling the ultimate LA panorama. Then, a wild day at Malibu Creek State Park is in the cards.

But wait, the fun doesn’t stop there! Buckle up for day trips to the desert wonderland at Joshua Tree National Park and a sky-high thrill on the Palm Springs Ariel Tramway. Downtown Burbank is our hub for epic eats and pub strolls – an urban exploration like no other.

Now, for a dash of scenic drama, we’ll hit the gas for the jaw-dropping Angeles Crest Highway, weaving through the majestic San Gabriel Mountains. Beach vibes, anyone? A double whammy as we cruise to Santa Monica and Venice Beach on the very same day.

For a sip of sophistication, a road trip to San Diego’s wineries is a must – wine tasting with a view! Oh, and a DreamWorks Animation campus tour is on the agenda, showcasing our magical workplace.

And because sweet treats are a necessity, a pitstop at my favorite Iranian Ice Cream haven, Mashti Malone’s, will be the grand finale – because LA adventures are best savored with a scoop of delight!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My Parents and My Family!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prashanth.cavale/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prashanth-cavale-98219a8/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CavalePrashanth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prashanth.cavale

Other: https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/21/entertainment/puss-in-boots-panic-attack-wellness-cec/index.html https://www.businessinsider.com/puss-in-boots-the-last-wish-panic-attack-scene-making-2023-1

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.