Dreamers Inspire Dreamers - Exclusive Talk NIKI with the Winner of Bintang SMA 2021

Summary

The video follows Wang, a 2021 manga contest winner, as he embarks on a trip to Los Angeles to meet his idol, Nikki, and explore the world of animation. From learning English through cartoons to pursuing a career in CG artistry, Wang's journey reflects the importance of perseverance, hands-on learning, and following one's passions. Along the way, he connects with professionals in the animation industry, shares his personal story, and receives encouragement to stay true to his creative vision. The video highlights the value of hard work, self-expression, and the pursuit of dreams.

Takeaways

• 😀 LA represents the manifestation of childhood dreams for creative individuals, offering a community full of support and inspiration.
• 😀 Learning English through watching Hollywood cartoons was a significant part of Wang's journey, demonstrating the power of media in self-education.
• 😀 Patience and persistence are key in the creative industry—success doesn't happen overnight, and collaboration is essential.
• 😀 A combination of hard work, learning new tools, and taking on different mediums helps one grow as an artist in animation and other creative fields.
• 😀 Nikki, an Indonesian woman who succeeded abroad, serves as a source of inspiration and a symbol of what is possible through determination.
• 😀 Stepping into the world of professional artistry is about hands-on learning, as experiencing and doing things firsthand leads to the greatest growth.
• 😀 Being true to oneself in creative work is crucial—art should reflect personal authenticity rather than seeking approval from others.
• 😀 For aspiring artists, self-belief and self-expression are more important than external validation. Stay true to your own voice.
• 😀 Exposure to new environments, like moving to LA, can ignite a fire within an artist and deepen their respect and commitment to their craft.
• 😀 Youth and high school students are encouraged to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges, as dreams should be big enough to scare you.

Q & A

What was Wang's main motivation for coming to Los Angeles?

Wang was motivated by the opportunity to join a creative community where people are supportive and share similar interests. He views Los Angeles as a manifestation of his childhood dreams, where he can now engage with the creative world that inspired him.

How did Wang learn English and why is this significant for him?

Wang learned English by watching Hollywood cartoons, which was significant because it not only helped him understand the language but also connected him to the very culture and media that inspired his creative journey.

What advice did Kevin, the CG generalist, give Wang about pursuing animation?

Kevin advised Wang to be patient and persistent. He emphasized that success in animation or any creative field takes time and is not an overnight achievement. He also suggested that Wang connect with other people in the industry to learn and grow.

What was the significance of meeting Nikki for Wang?

Meeting Nikki was inspiring for Wang because she is an Indonesian woman who succeeded abroad, which made her a role model for Wang. Her success showed him that it's possible to achieve big dreams even while being from a different country.

What sparked Nikki's interest in animation?

Nikki’s interest in animation began during high school. She initially didn't expect much from the competition but found a passion for animation after participating. Her personal journey inspired her to pursue this creative path further.

How did music play a role in the development of Wang and Nikki’s artistic paths?

For Wang, music was an outlet that complemented his interest in animation. For Nikki, music played a huge part in her high school years, where she started writing and producing music. Music provided both of them with an initial creative spark that led them to their respective artistic careers.

What was Nikki’s first experience in Los Angeles as an artist?

Nikki described her first experience in Los Angeles as life-changing. She emphasized the importance of hands-on learning in the creative field, which helped her grow as an artist. The environment in LA sparked a fire in her, driving her to pursue her artistry further.

How does Wang view his role as an artist in relation to others?

Wang views his art as a way to represent many people, reflecting their lives and experiences. He wants his work to connect with others emotionally, and he stresses the importance of making art that is true to oneself.

What message does Wang have for aspiring artists?

Wang encourages aspiring artists to create for themselves, not for external validation. He emphasizes that true artistic expression comes from within, and artists should stay true to their unique vision without seeking constant approval from others.

What does Wang believe is necessary for young people, particularly high schoolers, to pursue their dreams?

Wang believes that young people, especially high schoolers, should have opportunities to experience creative endeavors. He acknowledges that pursuing dreams can be challenging but emphasizes the need for hard work, persistence, and dedication in order to achieve success.