We were lucky to catch up with Diana Kuanysh recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Diana thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
I am incredibly passionate about my mission in storytelling, which is deeply rooted in the belief that every individual and creation has a purpose. For me, this purpose is to convey a message of compassion, sympathy, understanding, and empathy through my art. It may sound cliché, but I wholeheartedly believe in the transformative power of spreading kindness and love. Over the past few years, I’ve observed a growing need for these values in our society. Through my artistic expressions, I aim to bridge the gap between people and evoke a sense of shared humanity. My goal is to showcase the diversity of human experiences, emphasizing both the unique challenges each person faces and the common threads that bind us together. In a world often overshadowed by negativity, I want my art to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration. I feel a responsibility to shed light on the issues in my country, to expose the darkness of the world and encourage positive change. I want to send a resounding message that despite the challenges we face, we have the capacity to overcome them and create a better world. My mission is deeply personal, as it extends beyond the canvas to my relationships with loved ones. Through my storytelling, I hope to foster a deeper understanding among us, encouraging empathy and compassion in our interactions. I believe that by sharing these narratives, we can inspire positive transformations, regardless of age, background, or circumstance. In essence, my mission is to be a catalyst for change through the simple yet profound act of storytelling. It is not just about creating art; it is about instigating a shift in perspective, inspiring kindness, and nurturing a belief in the goodness that resides in each of us. I am committed to the idea that, through collective efforts, we can create a more compassionate and connected world – one story at a time.
Diana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am a storyteller at heart, and my journey into the world of filmmaking began at the tender age of 9. It all started with a music video project among friends, and the moment I dipped my toes into the world of editing, I was hooked. That experience ignited a passion that has fueled my pursuit of becoming a film director ever since. As I delved deeper into the realm of filmmaking, I found myself captivated by the magic that happens behind the scenes. Traveling with my parents to different countries only intensified this passion, with every new destination offering a sign that I was on the right path. Whether it was the presence of a renowned director or the buzz of nearby production houses, the universe seemed to reaffirm my calling. Fortunate enough to have a connection within the industry, I found myself on a movie set and that experience was the last star in the constellation of my determination to be a film director. The journey from that pivotal moment led me to earn a bachelor’s degree in filmmaking from the New York Film Academy but my education has been a continuous process of refining and enhancing my craft. Today, I wear multiple hats – directing, writing screenplays, editing various projects and helping fellow filmmakers turn their dreams into reality. On set, my ability to manage efficiently, multitask, and navigate stressful situations has become a hallmark of my directorial skills. As a video editor, I infuse every project with my heart and soul, ensuring that I not only meet but exceed the expectations of my clients.
What sets me apart is the kindness and respect I bring to every set. Every human being has their unique visions. As for me, artistically, my unique vision stems from a desire to showcase alternatives, not just the harsh realities. I aim to inspire change by not only revealing the truth but also offering solutions. My distinctiveness lies in my commitment to preserving and integrating beautiful Kazakh traditions, following the wisdom of Gustav Mahler that “Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.”
A project I hold dear to my heart is “Under the Willow,” a love letter to my parents. Based on their inspiring love story, the film emphasizes the importance of traditions, resilience, and the ultimate triumph of love. It is a testament to their unwavering support for my passion and the enduring belief in kindness and true love that has fueled my journey.
What I want people to know about me is simple – I am here to help, to spread kindness and to turn dreams into reality. I am human, prone to making mistakes but my commitment to you is unwavering. Your thoughts deserve to be on the big screen, and I am dedicated to making sure they are seen and heard. Let’s create something beautiful together.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative transcends the tangible impact on individuals. It extends into the realm of metaphysical exploration. Art, for me serves as a conduit to navigate the vast spectrum of human experience and emotion. The ability to evoke a myriad of feelings, from profound joy to discomfort, reflects the profound nature of our existence. Through the creative process, I navigate the multifaceted dimensions of reality. I can transcend temporal and spatial boundaries, becoming both expansive and infinitesimal, a queen of Scotland, mermaid at the bottom of the sea or a physicist with the power to shape destinies. This fluidity mirrors the limitless possibilities inherent in the human psyche. Art’s ability to spark conversations, stir emotions, or even elicit criticism underscores its potency as a medium for introspection. It becomes a tool for societal and personal examination, prompting individuals to confront their beliefs, biases and perspectives. This transformative potential is in itself a form of profound influence. The paradoxical nature of art, its capacity to simultaneously make one feel so much and so little, is a testament to its ability to navigate the complex nuances of the human condition. It challenges comfort zones, offering an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. In essence, the reward lies not only in the tangible impact on others but in the intangible exploration of the self and the universe. Art is a journey into the realms of emotion, intellect and imagination, a journey that leaves an indelible mark on both the creator and the beholder. It is a profound deed not just in what it communicates but in the transformative potential it carries for the collective consciousness.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
In the tapestry of my journey, there’s a chapter that illuminates the strength forged in the fires of skepticism and judgment. Picture this: a young creative soul, armed with nothing but a soft voice and a face that says “I forgot my homework”. I waltz onto a project and suddenly I’m the punchline in the seasoned professionals’ stand-up routine. These folks seasoned like a cast-iron skillet, started making notes faster than I could say, “Wait, I have a vision!” It was like they handed me the script, and I accidentally memorized the rejection lines instead. They probably thought, “Who let the teenager loose on set? Can she even find the coffee machine without adult supervision?” But guess what’s better than a plot twist? Proving them wrong! I unleashed my secret weapons: a dose of tenacity, a dash of resilience and a sprinkle of voice of the cartoon character. Sure, my voice might sound like a chipmunk trying out for a rock band and I look like I just escaped high school detention, but I’m not one to be underestimated. Amidst the chaos of fights and unnecessary words, I didn’t give up. I stood tall, declaring “This project is my Mona Lisa, and I’m not here for finger-painting critiques.” I became a relentless force, convincing them that I’m not just a little girl. I’m a little girl with a grand vision and an unwavering commitment to tell my story and asserting my authenticity, my capacity to lead and commitment to the project’s success. You see, each critique became my battle anthem. The journey was like a roller coaster full of loops, unexpected drops and the occasional upside-down moment. In the end, my resilience spoke louder than the doubts cast upon me. Through fights and words, I found strength. This experience was transformative. It taught me that resilience is not just about weathering storms. It’s about dancing in the rain. Each time I faced criticism, I emerged not shattered but refined. The fights didn’t break me, they made me stronger. It reinforced my belief that in the face of doubt, standing tall in one’s truth is the most powerful response. It made me realize that I don’t just have to keep doing what I am doing. I must do it with even greater conviction, I found not only their respect but a deeper understanding of my own strength.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/underthewillow_film?igsh=MTAzeDh0djJzamR2dg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/disha_koks?igsh=MXc1ODh4MG5uemp4eA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-kuanysh-67221b208/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ5RQN8xeOHpaZylEkU8q2Q
- Other: imdb: https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm13981956?ref_=hm_prof_name
Image Credits
Rishab Chandra Marya Lykova Savraj Singh Giulia Guzzo Nazym Saparbaeva Alibek Amerzhanov Angelica Utomo