Meet Kashish Bhandari | Visual Effects Artist

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

Hi Kashish, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Animation has captivated me since childhood. I remember watching Popeye, Oswald, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse every morning without fail, then spending hours drawing and coloring those characters. These early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for art, one that has only grown stronger with time.

Art was always my favorite subject in school; it felt more like a delight than a chore, unlike many other subjects. Reading fictional novels further fueled my creative fire, immersing me in worlds where I could create characters, give them personalities, and tell their stories. These characters resonated with me deeply, awakening an artistic inclination that has stayed with me as I’ve grown.

Growing up as the youngest of four siblings, I always wanted to pave my own way rather than follow in someone else’s footsteps. I vividly recall the day I decided to pursue animation instead of engineering. After spending two years preparing for the BITS entrance exam, I knew deep down that it wasn’t where my heart lay. Making that spontaneous decision to follow my passion has been one of the best choices I’ve ever made.

Art initially served as an escape from boredom, with doodling in textbooks turning into a full-blown passion. This passion drove me to develop the necessary skills through academic pursuits while staying true to the values my family instilled in me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart is my relentless passion for storytelling through animation and visual effects. It’s not just a job; it’s a calling. I’ve always been captivated by the power of art to evoke emotions, create immersive worlds, and connect with people on a deep level.

I’m most proud of the decision to follow my passion, even when it meant taking the road less traveled. Choosing animation and visual effects over a more traditional path wasn’t easy, especially when I had already invested years in preparing for a different career. But that leap of faith was crucial—it allowed me to pursue what truly makes me happy and fulfilled.

The journey to where I am today has been far from smooth sailing. Moving away from the comfort of my home to a completely new country, I faced challenges that tested my resilience. There were times when self-doubt crept in, and the road ahead seemed uncertain. But I learned to embrace these challenges as part of the process. Every setback was a lesson in disguise, teaching me patience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to myself.

I’ve learned that success isn’t just about talent; it’s about perseverance, adaptability, and the willingness to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough. It’s about finding joy in the journey, not just the destination.

What I want the world to know is that passion and determination can take you places you never imagined. My brand is about more than just creating animations and simulations; it’s about bringing stories to life that inspire, entertain, and connect with people on a deeper level. I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in visual effects, and I’m eager to see where this journey takes me.”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
“If my best friend was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d show them the best of the city’s vibrant culture, delicious food, and exciting attractions. We’d start each day with a hearty breakfast at the Atlanta Breakfast Club, where they have tons of vegetarian options. Then, we’d dive into the city’s amazing museums and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola.

For a day of outdoor fun, we’d hit up Stone Mountain for a hike and Piedmont Park (One of my favorite places) for a relaxing stroll. For foodies, I’d take them to places like Ria’s Bluebird and South City Kitchen, which have amazing vegetarian options. And Ponce City Market is a must-visit for its diverse food scene.

To wrap up the week, we’d enjoy a leisurely brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen, explore the Fernbank Museum, and have a fancy dinner at Canoe with a nightcap at SkyLounge for stunning city views. It’s going to be an unforgettable week!”

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my family. They’ve always had my back, offering unconditional love and support no matter what path I chose. Their unwavering belief in me has given me the courage to chase my dreams, even when they seemed out of reach.

I also want to give a shoutout to my amazing mentors both during my Undergraduate studies and now at SCAD. They’ve been more than just teachers; they’ve been guides, supporters, and confidants. These mentors saw potential in me at times when I couldn’t see it myself. Their influence has been pivotal in my growth as an artist and as a person, helping me to refine my craft and push the boundaries of my creativity.

And let’s not forget my incredible peers. They’ve been my partners in crime, my rivals, and my biggest supporters. They’ve pushed me to be better, challenged me to think differently, and celebrated my successes. I couldn’t have done it without them.

Website: https://katmeows31.myportfolio.com

Instagram: _katmeows_

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kashish-bhandari-9342b11a3