We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Prerna Chawla a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Prerna, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

I had Production Designed a Virtual Reality short in 2017 which was produced in partnership with the ACLU. “The Hidden” is a political thriller that was based on actual events. The film immerses you inside an ICE raid and forces you to experience first-hand the devastating impact these illegal practices are having on communities and families all around us.
Being an immigrant myself, I connected with the story and the characters immediately. The subject matter and potential social impact really appealed to me. The film went on to win Telly Awards and Social Impact Media Awards. I’m really glad I got the opportunity to be a part of such an important project!

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?

I am a Production Designer and Set Decorator based in Los Angeles working in features and commercials, and other mediums. While pursuing my Bachelors in Architecture, I decided I wanted to design films. I wanted to create unique worlds with every new project, so I worked towards this goal. I immigrated to the states for my Masters in Scenic Design, and have been working in film ever since.
I am very passionate about building worlds that are dramatically different for every story and I cannot imagine myself doing anything else. I get to visualize each character’s space in minute detail while looking at the big picture; what makes them tick, what is their essence? This research and character analysis is one of the most exciting parts of the design process for me. Collaboration and managing a team is also a big part of the job.
Every film comes with it’s own set of challenges. As artists, we are always more ambitious than the budget or time allows us to be. It’s a constant push-pull position with the producers. I am able to navigate this aspect of the job with ease while also being kind and supportive of my team. I am only as good as the people around me, and I’m proud of the nurturing environment I have created over the years- whether it is a producer or a production assistant, everyone has a unique perspective to offer. We are always learning new things on the job everyday- collaboration and learning is what makes the film come alive!

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

A thriving supportive ecosystem can be created if everyone supports artists in any small or big way. If you have the means, donate to your local artists or buy their products/services as often as you can- become their patrons! Or start small- go see your friend’s play, or an indie movie that is probably only in the theatres for a couple of days. We consume art everyday, make choices that helps small businesses that are around the corner as and when possible! So yes, one way to support is to literally support them monetarily! That will ensure that artists can continue making their art.
I would also encourage people to engage in conversation with the artists themselves- ask about their journey and unique ways of seeing life. Connect with artists you like on social media, and let them know when their art has inspired you in any way. This will create a thriving, supportive environment for art that is honest and fulfilling; rather than click bait content that focuses on getting followers instead of human connections.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Sitting in a sold out theatre with a film that you helped create, with the audience having a deep visceral reaction; is the most rewarding. The joy, or anguish the audience feels while watching it for the first time- then you realize that all the blood, sweat and tears were all worth it and you would do it all over again!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.prernachawla.com
• Instagram: @prernachawla.designs

Image Credits

Janelle Monae photo credit: Billy Moon