Meet Molly Cooper | Visual Development Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Molly Cooper and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Molly, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
My name is Molly Cooper and I am a visual development artist. At the peak of my career, I will be leading a team at a major animation studio. I want to continue creating and encourage others as well. I aspire to be an art director, meaning that I will be responsible for the visual style of a film. I will lead a team of skilled artists towards a common goal, guiding each of them to create one visually stunning, final product.

A healthy work environment will be crucial to my team. I need to ensure that every member feels safe, included, and driven. This setting may be achieved through laying out inspiration throughout the office, collaborating ideas, and maybe even bringing in pets or animals (if no one is allergic)!

Right now I am juggling some freelance work, but I continue to make it a priority to polish my portfolio and make connections so that I can achieve my end goal.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love talking to people and hearing their stories. Inspiration can be derived from anywhere, but hearing it through the experience of another individual adds an extra layer of flavor. The same concept or idea can be interpreted in so many different ways. When you translate that to paper, you have a piece of work that is truly unique.

I can work on my own, but I prefer to collaborate with others. However, I am introverted, and sometimes being around people for too long can drain my energy. Proper time management and healthy habits are crucial to my success. For example, going to sleep at a consistent time each night provides me with so much more energy the next day. You can’t create your best work if you’re not feeling the best!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I just moved to the Bay Area, so I am completely new to everything around here. If I’m looking for a good time, I would definitely go into San Francisco. I feel that there is something there for everyone. The drive into the city is beautiful – you get to see lakes, mountains, and so many trees that stretch far beyond the horizon. Once in the city, I like to explore new places. I will typically check out local businesses or small mom and pop shops. They have so many interesting items that you can’t find anywhere else. Even if you don’t have a specific place in mind, it’s so fun to wander around and pop inside any shop that catches your eye.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people who have helped me on my journey! My mother has offered both financial aid and moral support in pursuing my artistic endeavors. My boyfriend pushes me everyday to continue achieving my goals, and he reminds me to aim high. Sometimes, especially during the pandemic, it can be easy to feel unmotivated. My therapist keeps me on my feet and reassures me that I am doing great. Organizations like Rise Up Animation and Women in Animation provide feedback and mentorship on more technical aspects. I am eternally grateful for this team that has been such a huge part of building myself as an artist.

Website: https://www.mollycooper.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mallitee/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-cooper/