We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Hoda Ramy. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Hoda below.
Hoda, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?
As an artist living in New York City, I’ve often romanticized the hustle—the city that never sleeps, the energy, the endless inspiration. But lately, it feels like I’m caught in a survival cycle. Once a nurturing ground for artists, NYC feels like a devouring mother. The cost of living rises relentlessly, and the pressure to keep up with bills has turned my passion into a chore. I remember a night not long ago. It was past midnight, and I was at my desk, racing to finish yet another scene for a project. My apartment was quiet, except for the hum of my computer. I felt disconnected from the work in front of me, with scenes blending into each other, and I had no time to savor the creative process or appreciate what I’d made. The joy of creation had been replaced by the constant rush to meet deadlines to keep afloat in a city that demands so much. I paused and thought, What if I gave this up for something more stable? A corporate job with reliable paychecks and clear-cut tasks suddenly seemed appealing. No more late nights agonizing over details that might go unnoticed, no more financial uncertainty. Just a predictable routine and a steady income. But then, I asked myself: would that stability fulfill me? Would the creative spark that defines me wither away in a sea of trivial tasks?
Being an artist in NYC is exhausting, but it’s also where I feel alive. The challenges fuel my resilience, and every project, no matter how grueling, is a testament to my dedication and love for what I do. The exhaustion is absolute, but so is the satisfaction of overcoming it. Still, the thought lingers now and then. It’s a delicate balance, but I’ve seen these reflections not as signs of failure but as reminders to reconnect with the joy in my work—even in a city that tests my limits. The joy of creation and the thrill of seeing a project come to life are the moments that make the struggle worthwhile. They remind me why I chose this path and inspire me to keep going, no matter the challenges. I hope you can feel the same passion and love for your work and fellow artists and find joy in every creative process.
Hoda, 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’m an animator and multi-disciplinary artist deeply invested in the emotional power of storytelling and visual communication. My animation journey was sparked by a childhood love for drawing, which became a fascination with the moving image’s uniquimage’sty to stir emotions and convey powerful narratives. This profound connection with storytelling led me to pursue a formal education in animation, transforming my passion into a profession.
I specialize in 2D animation, motion graphics, and visual storytelling, creating works that range from narrative-driven films to impactful public service announcements (PSAs). For instance, I’ve collabI’veed with nonprofits like Hester Street and VOCAL-NY to visualize a more inclusive future for NYC through animations such as [specific project name]. I’ve also dI’veoped animations tackling critical social issues like youth justice and gun violence, like [specific project name]. My work aims to amplify underrepresented voices and spark meaningful conversations.
For my clients, I solve a range of creative challenges:
Narrative Clarity: I help clients tell their stories in compelling, visually engaging ways.
Audience Engagement: Whether it’s a PSA, an iterate explainer, or an animated short, my work is designed to captivate and resonate with diverse audiences.
Technical Expertise: I handle all aspects of animation production, from storyboarding and character design to compositing and final delivery, ensuring a seamless process from start to finish. I’m also skilled in managing project timelines and meeting deadlines, ensuring that your project is delivered on time and to your satisfaction. My unwavering commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity in my work sets me apart. I don’t just create visually appealing content—I strive to craft pieces that matter, challenge perceptions, and make a difference. My approach is highly collaborative; I work closely with clients to ensure their vision is brought to life while pushing creative boundaries, always mindful of the diverse voices that need to be heard.
I’m most proud of my I’mrd-winning films, In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning and 18 Hours a Dream, as well as my work as the lead animator for SONG OF THE NORTH, a shadow play infused with projected animation that brought an ancient Persian love story to life. Each project was a labor of love, blending traditional storytelling with modern techniques to create something unique and memorable.
For those getting to know me or my brand, I want them to understand that my work is driven by a genuine passion for creativity and a desire to make an impact. Whether a small-scale anit’sion or a large collaborative project, I bring the same dedication and artistic integrity.
Ultimately, I view my work as a transformative bridge between art and advocacy. I use animation to inspire, educate, and, most importantly, bring about positive change. Each project is an opportunity to make a difference, spark conversations, and foster a more inclusive and understanding world.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One of the biggest things non-creatives struggle to understand is art’s profound role in everyday life. It’s easy to overlook because art has become so seamlessly integrated into our routines that it feels invisible. But think about it-people come home after a long day and unwind with their favorite TV show, relax in a beautifully designed space, or enjoy a meal served on elegant plates. They browse galleries, recreate Pinterest-inspired designs, or even draw romantic inspiration from books and movies. At parties, music sets the mood and makes the moment memorable. These are all experiences we can relate to and are all shaped by art.
Yet, many need to realize that artists shape all these experiences. The comfort, beauty, and meaning that enrich their lives wouldn’t exist without the creativity and dedication of those who pour themselves into their craft. Instead, there’s often a misconception that artists demand too much and that we’re burdensome because our work generates a different tangible wealth than a computer engineer or financial advisor.
But that perspective misses the point. Art doesn’t just create wealth—it creates value. It shapes culture, defines aesthetics, and connects people to their emotions and each other. Artists’ work adds depth and richness to life in ways that spreadsheets and algorithms simply can’t. It’s not just about the individual experience but art’s societal impact, and it’s time to start recognizing that.
This disconnect may arise because art is so deeply woven into our lives that it becomes unrecognizable. It’s like air: essential, yet easy to take for granted. I want to invite people to reevaluate their relationship with art. Take a moment to notice the artistry in your surroundings, the stories that move you, and the music that lifts your spirits. Recognize the individuals behind those creations—not just as providers of entertainment or aesthetics, but as essential contributors to the fabric of life. These creators pour their emotions, experiences, and souls into their work, and this emotional connection makes art so powerful.
Artists shape the world around us, often without fanfare or recognition. It’s time we start appreciating their role, not just for the beauty they create but for how they help us see, feel, and experience life more fully.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
In my view, the best way for society to support artists and foster a thriving creative ecosystem is by addressing two critical needs: job security and standardized rates for creative work. Artists are often expected to create for little or no pay as if our work is less essential because it nurtures the soul rather than building physical infrastructure. But the truth is that art and creativity are the backbones of any thriving culture. In its time, society recognized that artists, like everyone else, must make a living.
Far too often, I’ve seen some of the most severe and inspiring artists marginalized because they can’t afford to sustain their practice. These are people whose work challenges norms, sparks conversations, and brings beauty and meaning into the world. Bit’s not just about the art they creatit’st’s about the emotional impact it has on us. Their work can uplift us, make us think, and help us connect with our humanity. Yethey’re sidelined due to financial instability. This is a loss not only for the artists themselves but for society as a whole, which misses out on the profound emotional connections they could help us forge.
With the rise of AI-generated art, the situation feels even more precarious. The line between human creativity and computational output is blurring, and art risks becoming a commodified, plastic imitation of what it once was. For instance, AI can generate visually stunning work, but it often lacks the soul, imperfections, and deeply personal connections that come from human experience. This shift is dangerous—not just for artists but for society’s mental and emotional well-being.
If we continue to view beauty and creativity through a computational lens, we risk losing touch with our inner selves. Art has always been a way for people to process emotions, reflect on their lives, and connect on a deeper level. Relying too heavily on machine-generated aesthetics may dull our ability to feel and understand those connections.
To truly support artists, society needs to:
Establish standard rates to ensure fair compensation for creative work.
Provide job security through funding, grants, and contracts, allowing artists to focus on their craft without worrying about financial survival. This means ensuring that artists have stable income sources, such as regular grants or long-term contracts, that allow them to plan and invest in their artistic practice without the constant fear of financial instability. Resist the commodification of creativity by valuing human-made art for its depth, nuance, and emotional resonance. This can be done by supporting local artists, purchasing original artworks, and promoting the idea that art is more than just a product, a reflection of the human experience. Ultimately, we must remember that art is not just a produit’st’s a vital expression of the human experience. By supporting the artists who create it, we safeguard our cultural heritage and our collective ability to feel, connect, and grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hodaramy.com
- Instagram: @hodaillustrations
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hodaramy/
