Natalie Leah shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Natalie, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I was recently accepted into a mentorship program with Women in Animation! Starting this fall, I will be part of a mentorship circle called “Breaking in: Getting into Animation as an Artist” with Pramita Mukherjee. The WIA Mentorship Program is designed to help artists like myself to make connections in the animation industry, and to improve both hard and soft skills as a creative. I’m so proud of myself, and thrilled to be a part of this amazing program.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Natalie, and I’m a freelance character designer and illustrator! I am incredibly passionate about character design and visual development, and I aim to share my creativity, curiosity, and artistic perspective with others. Over the past year, I have completed my first industry role as a character designer and prop designer on an independent TV production, illustrated a spread in Storytime Magazine’s June Issue, and established my own sole proprietorship in order to table at my first convention artist alley. Additionally, I currently work as an interior design assistant with Claudia Leah Design, and I am involved in multiple mentorships, such as a the Women in Animation Mentorship Circles program, and the Concept Art Association mentorship. Creating art to tell stories and engage with my audience is very dear to me, and I am so fortunate to be in the place to be able to pursue my passions.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
While I have many people who taught me the value of hard work, I think the best example that comes to mind is my parents. My dad is a professor of business, and my mom has her own interior design company, and both of them have always encouraged me to put my whole self into finding success. I started working with my mom earlier this year, and I have found such a sense of respect for what it means to run a business. Things like navigating the ins and outs of client relationships, creating functional yet beautiful home designs, and maintaining an organized studio space make up just a small part of what we have to do on a daily basis. Seeing her turn her passion for interior design into such as successful venture inspired me to start my own company, natnat.studios, to sell prints, originals and stickers of my artwork. Under the guidance of my dad, and with the support of both of my parents, I was able to sell at my first convention this past July; I had a fantastic experience and I am so excited for the next event!
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
As with many artists, I am a perfectionist. The fear of just “not being good enough” is a constant. Questions like, “Is my portfolio good enough for this job?” “Am I really qualified to table here?” “Should I just wait until I have more work to apply?” are always running through my head. It can definitely be hard to overcome these insecurities, but when I put them aside, take a breath, and just start creating, I feel much better. Journaling, exercising, spending time with loved ones, and doing art practices help me to minimize my fears as well.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
I know it’s a bit cheesy, but I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. It can be difficult to see in the moment sometimes, especially if something doesn’t go the way you hope it does, but, as the saying goes, “when one door closes, another one opens.” My younger self would be surprised to see that certain things didn’t happen that she had believed were certainties, but I think the experiences I had instead made me a better and more confident person. I love seeing how my life has evolved, and the results of the unexpected jobs, friendships, and travels are honestly some of my favorites.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely! I take pride in my work, and while external validation is important to me, I wouldn’t feel right doing something half-way. Everything I do reflects on me, and I strive to put my best foot forward in each of my endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://natalieleah.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natnat.studios/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-leah-7016561a1/
Image Credits
Image credits: Natalie Leah (artist)
