Meet Toshi Satake | Set Designer/Filmmaker

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

Hi Toshi, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I spent my life watching and loving movies. It is an ingrained part of who I am, even though it took many years to pursue a career in the field. Pursuing a career seemed out of reach, and I didn’t have the right connections or financial means to break in. I always excelled in jobs that leaned towards art or required creative problem-solving, but it wasn’t until I moved back to the States that I was able to use education benefits to chase a dream.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m excited to embark on this new career journey as a 39-year-old husband and father of two, bringing with me the discipline and dedication instilled during my six years of service in the US Air Force. Specializing in set design and construction, I leverage my expertise with both handheld and pneumatic tools to bring my artistic visions to life.

My diverse work history has equipped me with a range of skills that I now integrate into my craft, drawing from experiences across various professions. This fusion of skills acquired throughout my adult life, both personally and professionally, enriches my approach to my artistry.

I believe it’s never too late to pursue a passion and trust one’s instincts. It took me nearly 20 years to take the leap and bet on myself, and I couldn’t be prouder of the decision. This journey has reinforced the importance of perseverance and self-belief in achieving one’s goals.

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?
My neighborhood offers a myriad of attractions and activities that cater to various interests. One highlight is the locally owned movie theater, Premiere Oaks, which treats patrons to a different classic film twice a week. For pet owners like myself, there’s an abundance of shopping, niche areas, and parks just minutes away, ensuring a pet-friendly festival nearly every weekend. Being situated along the Space Coast adds another layer of excitement, with the opportunity to witness rocket launches from Cape Canaveral at a nearby beach, or enjoy leisurely evening strolls by the water during sea turtle season. As if that weren’t enough, the proximity to Orlando, just an hour’s drive away, promises endless adventures in the vibrant city known for its theme parks and entertainment options.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to give a big shoutout to my amazing wife and kids. They’ve been my rock throughout this journey, always there with a word of encouragement or a shoulder to lean on. Their support means everything to me, and I couldn’t imagine chasing my dreams without them by my side. They’re not just my family; they’re my biggest cheerleaders and a driving force behind everything I do. Thank you for always believing in me and pushing me to be the best version of myself!

Website: https://toshisatake.myportfolio.com/

Instagram: @t05h1nd1n

Image Credits
Dagniel Mantilla Sanchez