Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dorian Gerdji. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dorian, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
I will always be thankful to my parents for raising me with intention, and helping me become the person I am today. I think what was most helpful was how they emphasized building a strong work ethic. They always pushed me to have good grades in school- that translated into my work ethic today, which helps me stay organized when life gets busy. And also, they taught me to treat people with kindness- another thing that I think is invaluable.
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?
Essentially, I get to draw from my imagination for a living! I specialize in designing the objects, characters and environments that people see in movies, films, and any other form of entertainment. I found interest in this industry from an early age, but my aunt and uncle (who are also artists in the film/animation industry) inspired me to explore my imagination, which is crucial for this job.
I have worked on a plethora of genres/projects, ranging from stylized kids shows to theme park concepts for popular influencers. Over the past 2 years, I’ve tried to test the waters in as many avenues as I can, to see where I best fit in. Where I’m currently headed to, however, is the realistic concept art found behind live-action film and video game properties.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Perfectionism. For most of my life, I always strived to be as perfect as I could be, in as many things as possible. I had learned this from some of my teachers, friends, and coaches growing up, who seemed to push the idea of being the very best, all the time. However, I’ve learned that sometimes this is an endless battle, which only leads to fatigue and disappointment. I think that having high standards is one thing, but not celebrating your victories because they are not “perfect” is a losing situation.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
I believe that getting to use my own life experiences, through my design choices and imagination, is the best part of my job. My memories always tie into the things I draw, even if the subject matter or project is completely fiction. I pull ideas and inspiration from trips I’ve taken, people I’ve met, and things I’ve heard or read. It’s really a privilege to be able to express myself creatively like this.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artstation.com/doriangerdji
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofgerdji
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorian-gerdji-5a9743188/