From developing new worlds on screen to building community on the job, Skydance Shop Steward Kalina Murat is dedicated to supporting members and providing resources to help them navigate change.
Name: Kalina Murat
Job Title: Visual Development Artist
Studio: Skydance
Contact info: stewards-skydance@tag839.org
Tell us a little about yourself and your career journey.
I’m originally from the Chicago suburbs, but I’ve lived in California for over 10 years now. I have a BFA in Visual Development from Academy of Art University. During Covid, I completed a Background Design Certificate at Emile Cohl Atelier. Through a partnership with Emile Cohl Atelier and Skydance Animation, I was offered a Development Mentee Internship. My internship became a Visual Development Apprenticeship, and then I was offered a full-time visual development role. I’ve now been at Skydance over 4 years on various projects, including Wonka and Pookoo/Swapped, and I’m currently working on Rich Moore’s upcoming film.
What do you love most about working in animation?
I love the people and creative collaboration! I’m so lucky to get to work with so many incredibly talented, kind, and funny people. My favorite time to be on a project is early on when the teams are small, we’re all spitballing ideas, and following the muse.
Why did you volunteer to serve as a Shop Steward?
Up until now, we didn’t have a Shop Steward at Skydance. During the last round of contract negotiations, I didn’t have the time to help and volunteer. Now that I do, I wanted to take on a role that could help connect our Union community at the studio.
As a Shop Steward, what are your priorities in helping TAG members at your studio?
Right now, my priority is to help our members navigate all the studio changes happening with the Skydance/Paramount merger. I want to connect members to resources and keep them informed, and for them to know they have someone to reach out to!
Find out more about Kalina at her website and follow her Instagram.