Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Benedikt Sebastian. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Benedikt, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

From a young age, I was immersed in a world of creativity on our family farm in Nelspruit, South Africa. The vast landscapes and diverse cultures surrounding me sparked my imagination. It wasn’t until my early teens, after surviving cerebral malaria, that I truly understood the transformative power of storytelling. This pivotal moment ignited my passion for creative expression. I knew then that I wanted to pursue a path where I could blend art, storytelling, and communication to connect with others on a deeper level.

Throughout my schooling in Lydenburg and Nelspruit, I gravitated towards visual arts and literature, finding joy in both creating and interpreting narratives. My formal training in Visual Communication at The Open Window in Pretoria solidified my skills in photography, design, and motion graphics, laying the foundation for my journey into filmmaking and acting. This multidisciplinary approach allowed me to explore storytelling from various angles, shaping my career into what it is today—a fusion of artistry, writing, and performance that continues to evolve with each project.

Ultimately, it was this early recognition of storytelling’s ability to transcend boundaries and connect people that propelled me towards a career where creativity and narrative intertwine.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My journey into the creative arts began with a deep-seated passion for storytelling, which led me to pursue a career spanning acting, writing, music, and visual communication.

I hold a Bachelors in Visual Communication and recently completed my Masters in Creative Writing, both of which have enriched my ability to weave narratives across different mediums. My formal training also includes improv with The Upright Citizens Brigade and Groundlings, refining my skills in comedic timing and spontaneity.

In the realm of film, I’ve had the privilege of appearing in several projects that have shaped my artistic path, including roles in “America: Promised Land,” “Battle Star Wars,” “Blood and Glory,” “Eye Without a Face,” “The Unsettling,” and “Toxic Impulses.” These experiences have not only honed my craft as an actor but also deepened my understanding of character development and storytelling on screen.

My work extends beyond acting; I’m also an accomplished graphic designer and musician, blending my skills to create visually compelling narratives and evocative soundscapes. Whether it’s through film, music, or visual art, I strive to provoke thought and emotion, aiming to connect with audiences on a profound level.

What sets me apart is my holistic approach to storytelling. I don’t just inhabit characters; I immerse myself in the creative process from conception to execution, whether I’m on stage, in front of the camera, or behind the scenes. I’m most proud of my ability to cross boundaries between different artistic disciplines, crafting narratives that resonate across cultures and contexts.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is a reflection of my passion for storytelling and my dedication to pushing creative boundaries. Whether you’re looking for a compelling performance, innovative design, or captivating music, I bring a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to every project.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I moved to Los Angeles with a vibrant energy and promising career prospects, mainly related to acting, but shortly after settling in, the COVID-19 pandemic brought everything to a standstill. It was a surreal experience to see productions halt overnight, and like many in the industry, I had to adapt quickly. As smaller productions cautiously resumed, I pivoted my focus towards photography, videography, graphic design, and creative writing projects.

Just as things were picking up again, there were the series of strikes within the industry, which further disrupted workflows. These strikes were pivotal moments for the unions to negotiate better terms and opportunities, but they also meant another slowdown in work. It was during this period that I embraced working behind the camera more deeply, exploring my passion for visual storytelling and producing.

This shift was not just a response to external challenges but also a realization of my broader interests and strengths. I found great satisfaction in creating visually compelling narratives and managing the intricate details of production. It’s a pivot that has shaped my current trajectory, allowing me to blend my artistic skills with practical industry insights, ultimately broadening my professional horizons in ways I hadn’t anticipated before.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One aspect that non-creatives might find challenging to grasp is the blend of passion and practicality required to sustain oneself in this field.

Creativity isn’t just about inspiration; it’s a disciplined practice that demands resilience, adaptability, and a continuous pursuit of growth. It’s about balancing artistic vision with the realities of client expectations, market trends, and the ever-evolving technological landscape. This duality can be both exhilarating and daunting.

Moreover, the path of a creative is rarely linear. It’s characterized by highs of creative fulfillment and lows of uncertainty and rejection. Each project is a journey that requires intense emotional and intellectual investment, often culminating in outcomes that are subjective and open to interpretation.

Another aspect that may be less understood is the interconnectedness of different creative disciplines. For instance, my journey spans across filmmaking, photography, graphic design, and writing. While seemingly disparate, these disciplines often overlap, influencing and enriching one another. This multidimensional approach not only enhances creativity but also requires a diverse skill set and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt.

Lastly, the creative process itself can be mysterious to those who haven’t experienced it firsthand. It involves embracing ambiguity, exploring unconventional ideas, and embracing failure as a stepping stone to innovation. Non-creatives may struggle to understand the iterative nature of creativity—how ideas evolve through experimentation, refinement, and collaboration.

Ultimately, what non-creatives may find difficult to grasp is the profound sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from creating something meaningful and impactful. Despite the challenges, the ability to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotion through artistic expression is a privilege and a driving force in my journey as a creative professional.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.benediktsebastian.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benediktsebastian
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benediktsebastian
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benediktsebastian
• Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/blessed1
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BenediktSebastian
• Other: https://www.benediktsebastian.co

Image Credits

Anna Webber
Ryan Bussard
Film: Edge of Chaos (Director Ryan Kruger)
Film: Toxic Impulses (Director Kyle Schadt)
Film: Battle Star Wars (Director James Thomas)