We recently had the chance to connect with Annette Bedrossian and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Annette, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
One of the genres I am currently compelled to explore is undoubtedly horror. I had previously hesitated to write a horror script due to the overwhelming prevalence of derivative works in the genre. While I anticipate the challenges ahead, I am in the early stages of outlining several ideas. I am primarily considering the creation of a hybrid short film that combines live action with animation, though I am still refining the concept.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Annette Bedrossian, and I am an Animator, Artist, Filmmaker, and Educator—essentially, a storyteller in various forms. Alongside my partners, Raffi Antounian and Tsebahat Fiseha, I co-founded RAT Studios many years ago, where we have produced several award-winning projects and continue to develop new material.
In addition to my work in 2D animation, I collaborate with my colleague Jeremy Mowery of Sock Dolly Productions on exciting stop-motion shorts. I also take great pleasure in directing live-action music videos for the talented artist Savannah Pope with our DP Lucky Atkare.
What sets me apart is my deep passion for storytelling and my commitment to employing multiple mediums to help others share their narratives and realize their visions.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Trust is the singular element that can both fracture and mend the bonds between individuals. In all forms of relationships, trust is essential yet often underestimated. Personally, I find it impossible to collaborate with others or forge any meaningful connections if they lack trustworthiness. This deficiency is prevalent in our society. As human beings, we seek a sense of safety, and to achieve this, we must place our trust in those around us.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The greatest fear that has held me back throughout my life has undoubtedly been the fear of being misunderstood. Once I relinquished the need to make the world I envision resonate with everyone else, I experienced a profound sense of freedom I had never known before. Now, I am on a mission to pursue whatever my heart and mind inspire, welcoming those who choose to join me on this journey.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
The steadfast support I can always count on comes from my collaborative partners: Raffi, Tsebahat, Jeremy, and Savannah. I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such talented and creative individuals. At times, I find myself pinching to ensure that I am truly here, among these remarkable people. What could I have done in a past life to deserve such blessings? My gratitude is boundless.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
Peace, for me, manifests in various forms. Emotional peace arises when I find myself in the mountains, sipping coffee while surrounded by pine trees and wildlife. In relation to my work, I experience peace when a project reaches completion and we receive news of its acceptance into festivals. I don’t believe my mind ever truly achieves 100 percent “peace”; it is perpetually engaged, contemplating numerous thoughts simultaneously. At times, this chaos can feel remarkably peaceful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://abedrossian.com
- Instagram: @annettebedrossian
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-bedrossian-mfa-24b18516b/
Image Credits
Portrait of me: Shoshana Frederick
