We recently connected with Neivy Martinez and have shared our conversation below.

Neivy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I don’t believe many of us can pinpoint the exact moment we knew we wanted to pursue a career in the arts, but for me, that moment is crystal clear. At the age of four, I stumbled upon the behind-the-scenes video of “The Incredibles” and accidentally played it. From that instant, I was utterly captivated—I must have watched that video over 50 times. Witnessing the magic of how movies come to life ignited a fire within me that has burned ever since.

From then on, I was unstoppable. I constantly begged to film our family’s home videos, eagerly listened to endless playlists of songs with my dad imaging different world for ever song, and filled countless notebooks with drawings during class. While I recognize there is still much for me to learn on my journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to graduate from SCAD and immerse myself in the world of art. Working alongside incredible artists and contributing to various films has only strengthened my resolve. Despite the challenges and uncertainties of this path, I am certain that this is where I belong. I am determined to continue growing, not only as an artist but also as a force for positive change in the industry.

My dream is to one day establish my own studio—a space that fosters mentorship, community, and amplifies the voices of young creatives. This is not just a career path for me; it’s a calling—a commitment to creating a brighter, more inclusive future.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

While I’m still on the path to officially entering the industry, I am constantly seeking opportunities to engage in new projects and expand my skill set. Currently, my focus lies in networking and collaborating with fellow members of the community to uplift one another.

I am an active member of organizations such as WIA, Latinx Animation, and ASIFA, where I engage in discussions, seek mentorship, and contribute to initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and supportive industry environment. Although I understand that building my own studio and enacting positive change within the industry will take time, I am committed to assisting others in any capacity possible throughout my journey.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One aspect of my journey as a creative that may be challenging for non-creatives to grasp is the significance of community. Despite the stereotype of creatives being solitary or introverted, I have discovered that cultivating a community is vital for personal growth and creative development. Engaging with like-minded individuals not only enhances one’s craft but also contributes to creating a better future for upcoming talents. Being part of a supportive community provides the courage to push beyond one’s comfort zone. It also give room to receive genuine feedback from those who not only appreciate the craft but understand nuances that may go unnoticed by the average person. This collaborative environment fosters a culture of mutual respect, inspiration, and innovation which is so important to any artist.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

As a first-generation woman and aspiring artist, my creative journey is driven by a profound desire to shed light on the stories of the people I grew up with and to infuse joy into their lives. I have countless memories, of my family pulling our money together to catch a movie, or my sisters and I sitting by my father’s speaker, captivated by the latest songs. It was through these experiences that I fell deeply in love with art in its infinite forms —it has the remarkable magic to brighten even the darkest of days.

I firmly believe that every young artist deserves a platform to share their unique perspective with the world. What drives me most is the opportunity to pave the way for more first-generation narratives, showcasing both the highs and lows of our journey. In a world that often feels divided, I want to be part of fostering understanding and connection through the universal language of art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.neivymartinez.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neivy-martinez/

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