We recently connected with Gissette Valentin and have shared our conversation below.
Gissette, appreciate you joining us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
I can honestly say that it’s had a strong impact on my career as an artist, just having those memories and traditions at such an early age, being able to see and experience firsthand what film and TV can make someone feel and how they open the door to creating these magical moments within families.
All of that, plus her grit, tenacity, and sense of freedom and humor, creates the stepping stone to keep moving forward and pursuing whatever I want, with the confidence of knowing it will get done because I watched her do and so much more.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m an actress who started as a professional dancer for 12 years. Though I began training in acting first, I was too shy, like most creatives. I just got tired of my own excuses and forced myself to take improv and Meisner classes simultaneously to break that habit. Improv forced me to think on my feet, embrace spontaneity, and trust my instincts. Meanwhile, Meisner drilled into me the importance of being present, authentic, and vulnerable in my performances. On top of other classes over the years.
My mindset is something I enjoy standing by when it comes to my life and craft. “No” is not an answer for me when it comes to doing what I love and creating. I know that in order to achieve great success, I need to have a strong focus and an even stronger purpose that works for me. Sometimes that means shutting out the “world” and keeping my head down for a period of time, and I’m okay with that. There are too many unnatural, on top of natural, distractions around us that can only deter someone from their goal, and even living life. I enjoy training my mind to make choices around that idea. I believe that coincides with who I am as a person and my brand.
As an actress, I strive to connect with audiences on a deeply human level. I hope to remind viewers of their own humanity, evoke laughter, and provoke thought and introspection. Whether I’m portraying moments of joy, sorrow, or absurdity, my aim is to leave a lasting impact and resonate with the hearts and minds of those watching. In front of-and behind-the camera.
Outside of that, I love a good book and building life experiences.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
“Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill and “As a Man Thinketh” by James Allen for entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy. For acting, Stella Adler on America’s Master Playwrights by Stella Adler.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Something I feel that could’ve been beneficial early in my career would be knowing and understanding the business side of the industry, and business as a whole. Taking advantages of any and all resources that make sense to your journey and what you want to pursue. You can never learn too much.
Contact Info:
- Website: imdb.me/GissetteValentin
- Instagram: instagram.com/gissettevalentin
- Youtube: youtube.com/gissettevalentin
Image Credits
Brian Jones Photography Neta Zuk Photography The Walking Dead: World Beyond Origin Will Trent The Dirty South Claws