We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zali Yurchevska. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zali below.
Zali, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?
I am definitely happier as an artist rather than working a regular job. Sometimes, even though your craft might not provide everything you need, you might have to find a job on the side. If that’s the case, try to stay close to the industry you’re passionate about. For instance, you can work full-time as an assistant in a studio if you want to build a career in photography or video production. Positions in agencies, production companies, or media-related businesses are ideal because they allow you to connect with people already in the industry.
One day, your talent will be noticed, and your hard work will pay off. Just keep going, sharing, learning, creating, showing, and spreading your work until you get it.
This way, you’re building connections, and networking is one of the most impactful things on your path.
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’m Yelyzaveta Yurchevska, but I usually go by Zali. I’m originally from Ukraine, where I began my career as a choreographer working with Dakooka. I choreographed her music videos and even her big show. However, as I started working in television, I realized that I wanted to direct, as choreography felt too restrictive for my ideas. That’s when I made the decision to move to America to pursue my career.
I had been dreaming of coming here for three years, and finally, I made it. Now, here in Tampa, I own the production team and talent agency. Currently, 15 people are part of my CurArt Agency, and we’re gearing up to shoot our first feature-length film soon!
Basically, I’m primarily a music video director, overseeing projects through my production team and talent agency, CurArt Agency (find us on Instagram: @curart.agency). As an executive producer and director, I bring creative visions to life with each project I undertake.
Additionally, while I wouldn’t classify myself as a professional dancer, I do teach high heels in Tampa. My background includes choreographing music videos and stage shows for artists like Dakooka, a prominent Ukrainian singer, as mentioned earlier.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
First of all, I always try to keep an eye on the productions, agencies, directors, and labels that align with my vision to see if they are looking for new talent or team members. This way, you get a chance to work with people whose level you strive towards. Additionally, all creatives should consistently explore various sources like casting call resources.
Secondly, everyone who creates and practices their craft should have sources of inspiration. Find yours and hold onto them until you no longer need them. Have backup plans because you never know when the next project will come along, and you need to be ready to find your inspiration. Talk to people, travel, read books, meditate, connect with nature, watch movies, listen to music, watch the sunset, wake up early, take contrast showers, work out, eat healthily, rest, sing, and dance.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the sense of fulfillment that comes from doing what I love. When you enjoy your work and are passionate about it, every moment feels worthwhile. While you may get tired, it’s a different kind of tiredness—one that leaves you eager to return to your work the next day. Being a creative often means working freelance, which provides numerous opportunities to be self-reliant. You get to set your own schedule, make choices about how you work, and enjoy the flexibility to travel and work from anywhere. This freedom to live life on your own terms is what I cherish most about being an artist.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Yurchevska.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yurchevska?igsh=Y3J6MTA1ejFmN2Uw
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/vBEnXNEt5C9g7VoM/?mibextid=kFxxJD
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yelyzaveta-yurchevska-b09383247?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app&original_referer=
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yurchevska_?_t=8iWEjVA0QJ3&_r=1
Tumblr: https://yurchevska.tumblr.com/
Image Credits
DOP: Matthew Farmer
Model: Alfani Ramos
Dancer: Yelyzaveta (Zali) Yurchevska