We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Gabrielle Heslop a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Gabrielle , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
From a young age, I was drawn to the arts, immersing myself in plays, memorizing my favorite movie lines, and reenacting plots with my Barbie dolls. Being an only child allowed my imagination to flourish, as I created entire worlds in my mind. It was in middle school, during a major theater production, that I truly realized my passion. When unexpected challenges like missing props and early curtain closures forced me to improvise on stage, the audience was captivated by the spontaneity. That experience marked a turning point, solidifying my commitment to pursuing a career in the arts, and since then, I have never looked back.
Gabrielle , 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 an actress, writer, and voice-over artist dedicated to using filmmaking as a means to uplift and transform culture. My mission is to inspire the next generation while bringing joy to my own. In a world that often feels dark, I strive to spread light and share love through my work. Currently, I am developing scripts while actively auditioning and pursuing various projects, all in service of a larger vision. I’m also in the process of launching my production company, “Joy River Productions,” which aims to harness the power of storytelling to inform, gently correct, and illuminate vital issues.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Society can best support artists by promoting positivity rather than shame, uplifting rather than tearing down, and empowering individuals to forge their own paths instead of punishing them for not conforming to societal norms. Artists play a crucial role in advancing societal thought and fostering connection among people. By encouraging creativity and embracing diversity, we can cultivate a vibrant culture that thrives on innovation and inclusivity.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
The industry is experiencing a significant shift with the rise of AI and streaming, requiring me to adapt and pivot during this season and through other slow periods. My dream remains steadfast, motivating me to do whatever it takes to keep moving forward. With the Lord’s guidance, I’ve discovered new avenues for generating income, ensuring I stay resilient and focused on my artistic journey.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @natasha_duval
