We were lucky to catch up with Riccarda Richter recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Riccarda thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Have you signed with an agent or manager? Why or why not?

In my journey as an actress, I’ve had the privilege of working with several agents. However, the most recent chapter in my career proved to be particularly inspiring, not just for me but for others navigating the industry.

Up until last year, I was with an agency that was undeniably proficient and professional. Despite their expertise, I began to sense a discomfort, a gut feeling that prompted me to take a leap of faith. I made the decision to part ways with the agency, and what followed was a year of uncertainty where I questioned if I had made a grave mistake. Nevertheless, I persevered. I continued writing my projects and delved into independent films, all while maintaining my weekly acting regimen.

It was during one of these routine training sessions that my current agent happened to notice me. That same evening, he reached out, expressing genuine enthusiasm for my work and a desire to represent me. Trusting my instincts, I wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity with the new agency. What I’d like to share from this experience is the importance of taking risks and following your instincts, even when the initial outlook seems daunting. Don’t cease being proactive, because you never know when the next opportunity might be just around the corner.

Riccarda, 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 Riccarda Richter, a German actress with a lifelong passion for storytelling. My journey into the world of performance art began in childhood, where I found joy in embodying diverse characters, including a whimsical three-day adventure as a dog, nestled beside my four-legged friend in a laundry basket.

My career has unfolded across various realms, encompassing German television and independent productions. A recent milestone was clinching the Best Actress of the Year award at the Indie Short Fest in Los Angeles for a pivotal role. Collaborating with director Sophia Kindt on the complex character of Sister Christa remains a deeply cherished memory.

Beyond the spotlight, I am fervently dedicated to using my platform to amplify the voices of the LGBTQ+ community. Advocacy is not just a cause; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of my creativity. Through my work and social media presence, I strive to be a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a creator who fosters representation. My latest project, the short film “My Girlfriend’s Parents,” delves into taboo subjects like homosexuality and the church. While my characters take the forefront in my writing, I approach these themes with a commitment to nuanced storytelling that encourages dialogue and understanding.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One lesson I had to unlearn in my artistic journey revolves around the pervasive “hustle culture.” Now, don’t get me wrong—I love what I do, and it doesn’t always feel like strenuous work. However, there came a point where I realized that the constant hustle wasn’t just about discipline; it was also a way of avoiding something deeper, often rooted in fear.

Behind that hustle, there’s often the fear of failure or success, and this lack of trust can lead us into a whirlwind of constant motion. What I’ve come to realize is that if we truly trust ourselves, we’re not alone, and there’s a safety net even when it seems like we’re free-falling. A prime example is my story with the agent.

I had to learn to live, to take breaks, and to recharge my creative batteries. After all, how can I draw from the rich tapestry of characters if I’m chained to a desk, churning out concept after concept while simultaneously navigating casting calls? It became crucial for me to accept the natural ebb and flow of this creative journey, not viewing the inevitable ups and downs as failures but as valuable experiences that propel me forward as an artist—both professionally and personally.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that many opportunities arose when I least expected them. Strangely, I was often most prepared for them not through relentless hustle, but by being present in my everyday life. Embracing this mindset has not only allowed me to find joy in the process but has also enriched my work in ways I hadn’t imagined.

It’s a continual learning curve, but finding that sweet spot between dedication and allowing myself to live has been transformative. Success isn’t always about the grind; sometimes, it’s about embracing the unexpected and being open to the rhythm of life.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my view, fostering a thriving creative ecosystem involves recognizing and addressing the unique challenges that emerging artists face, especially in the German industry, which I’m most familiar with. One major hurdle is the limited access to funding and support for newcomers. Often, funds tend to flow towards established directors, actors, and productions, leaving little room for nurturing new and innovative ideas.

I completely grasp the industrial aspect of filmmaking—it’s a business that needs to generate revenue. However, this reality leaves many artists reliant on private individuals and investors to bring their visions to the screen. My heartfelt wish is for a more widespread endorsement of ideas on crowdfunding platforms like Startnext, Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and others. It’s not about expecting large sums; even small contributions from many people can make a significant impact—trust me, $5 can go a long way!

And when you come across such projects on social media, a simple share can make a world of difference. Emerging artists truly depend on the support of the community. Without you all, it’s an uphill battle. So, a massive thank you to those who regularly lend their support. You’re the backbone of bringing fresh, creative voices to life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.riccardarichter.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riccarda.richter/reels/
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10831079/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_2_tt_0_nm_8_q_riccarda%2520

Image Credits
Sven Serkis, Dominik Kammer, Sophia Kindt