1) Who are you and tell us how your journey as a motion graphic artist began?
I'm Diyana Shahrol-Zaki, a passionate motion graphics animator! Since I was a kid, I've been absolutely captivated by the stunning visuals in games and animations. Funny thing is, I never quite mustered up the courage to actually pursue it as a career back then. So entering University Brunei Darussalam back in 2014 was the turning point in my life where I really thought of my future and what I really wanted to do. So I took the big step, applied for the creative major despite not having any background in art, and dived in fully! Today, I proudly steer the ship at Dee Animations, where I continue to bring creative visions to life.
2) Looking at what you have created in the past, would you change anything today?
I feel like I wouldn't really change anything because everything I've gone through has been a part of my learning process. Sure, there has been ups and downs, but I've always seen the downs as chances to learn through trial and error.
3) What is the biggest obstacle you have encountered in your creative journey and what did you do to overcome it?
Probably the burn out that tends to come when working in a fast paced industry. But organizing my priorities, making time for myself, and exercising a decent work-life balance has helped!
4) What would you most like to be remembered for?
I’ve experienced multiple occasions where people happily tell me I’ve brought their ideas to life through my animations and I think seeing how happy they were and just being remembered as that, brings a smile to my face!
5) How do you push your creative boundaries in your works?
By working on personal projects. Client work does get fun to do, but making time to do personal projects or collaborating with other creatives for fun projects, only means I get to freely explore and spread my creative boundaries.
6) Can you describe a time and place where you would feel the most energized and creative?
I think if I had to choose, it’s when I get to work with other creatives! You get to bounce ideas and feed off of each other’s energies. Truly an exhilarating experience!
7) Who or what would you say are your greatest inspiration?
The many creatives that have been working in this industry. I think just a decade ago you’d never think the local creative industry would be where is it now. Of course we’re still growing, but I’m actually quite thrilled to see where we’re at currently. Just knowing that, inspires me to make my mark and give my hand to help contribute to the development too!
8) In your creative expressions, what would be the ultimate message you want to share with others?
To my fellow creatives: Get your rest when you can, burnouts are tough! But also, thank you for your hard work! We got this!
To the newcomers studying their way in: Take that challenge and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it! Oh, and wanna know one of the best ways to learn stuff? Try doing little fun projects of your own :) You’ll learn as you go!
And of course, to my family, I would like to thank them for being so supportive with what I’ve been doing. It always makes me happy (and embarrassed) when they proudly point out my work when they see it in public.