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

Saniya, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Despite the challenges and uncertainties that come with being an artist, the profound sense of purpose and passion I experience through my creative endeavors surpasses any fleeting moments of doubt. While there are times when the stability and predictability of a traditional career path may appear enticing, particularly during periods of financial instability or industry pressures, my fascination with character animation remains unwavering. Character animation’s unique capacity to evoke empathy, forge deep connections with audiences, and convey narratives that transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries continues to captivate me.

Saniya, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My artistic journey began with motion graphics in 2D, but my dream was always to be part of feature films. Knowing that this goal was on the horizon, I decided to accelerate the timeline by enrolling in the SVA MFA Computer Arts program two years after graduating with an engineering degree. During my free time, I worked as a 2D animator, honing my skills and preparing for the transition. Upon arriving in NYC, I delved into the world of 3D animation, exploring various disciplines. Among them, 3D character animation stood out to me as particularly captivating. Now, as I return to motion graphics, I bring with me a strong foundation in character animation, blending it seamlessly into the 3D realm. I believe what sets me apart is my unique approach to integrating character animation into motion design, a departure from the more common focus on 2D animation or simpler 3D simulations.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

During my transition from engineering to animation, I encountered a pivotal moment that truly tested my resilience. As I ventured into the unfamiliar territory of the animation industry on a different continent, I faced numerous challenges and uncertainties. However, I remained determined to pursue my passion for creativity.

One of the key strategies I employed to navigate this period of uncertainty was actively seeking opportunities for networking and mentorship. Recognizing the value of learning from others’ experiences, I immersed myself in networking events and mentorship programs. I enrolled in Women in Animation mentorship circles, eager to connect with seasoned professionals and gain insights into the industry.

Additionally, I seized opportunities to volunteer at prestigious events such as SIGGRAPH in LA 2023 and the Real Time Conference in NYC. These experiences not only provided me with invaluable exposure to the latest trends and technologies in the animation world but also allowed me to forge meaningful connections with industry experts.

Despite the initial challenges and setbacks, my persistence and resilience ultimately paid off. Through networking, mentorship, and determination, I was able to overcome obstacles and carve out a path for myself in the animation industry. Today, as I reflect on that transformative journey, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the growth that adversity has brought. It serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of seeking support and guidance from others along the way.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building an audience on social media has been a journey of consistent effort, authenticity, and engagement. When I first began, I approached it as an opportunity to share my passion for animation, connect with like-minded individuals, and showcase my creative work.

One of the most important aspects of building my social media presence has been showcasing my unique personality and letting people know the artist behind the work. While sharing my creative projects is essential, I’ve also made sure to offer glimpses into my life, thoughts, and experiences. I’ve found that people connect more deeply when they can relate to the person behind the art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sanimotion.tilda.ws/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sani.mation/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saniya-assembek/

Image Credits
Brandon Wang