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

Hi Gen, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Over the course of my career as a FX artist, my perspective on work-life balance has evolved. Initially, I was driven to prove myself and often sacrificed personal time and social activities for work. However, as I gained experience, I recognized the significance of maintaining a healthy equilibrium between my professional and personal life.

Now, I approach work-life balance with a more conscious mindset. I prioritize setting clear boundaries and managing my time effectively. This involves communicating openly with my team and superiors about my workload and deadlines, ensuring that I have ample time for personal activities, self-care, and meaningful connections with loved ones.

I also understand the importance of rejuvenation and self-care in maintaining a sustainable work-life balance. I incorporate short breaks during the workday to stretch and clear my mind, engage in regular exercise or mindfulness practices, and plan vacations or downtime to disconnect from work completely.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an FX artist, what I am most proud of and excited about is the opportunity to bring imagination to life through visual effects. Being able to create stunning and realistic simulations, explosions, magical effects, and other dynamic elements is incredibly fulfilling. It’s the ability to make the impossible possible and contribute to the storytelling process that excites me the most.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey of passion, perseverance, and continuous learning. It has not been easy. I faced numerous challenges along the way, such as fierce competition, tight deadlines, and the need to constantly adapt to evolving technologies. However, I overcame these challenges by staying dedicated, honing my skills through practice and personal projects, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals in the field. I embraced opportunities for growth and was always open to learning from both successes and failures.

Throughout my career, I have learned valuable lessons. Firstly, collaboration and effective communication are key to producing outstanding work. Working closely with other artists, supervisors, and clients allows for a more cohesive and successful end result. Secondly, embracing new technologies and staying up-to-date with industry trends is essential to remain competitive in the fast-paced world of visual effects. Lastly, maintaining a strong work-life balance is crucial for sustained creativity and overall well-being.

What I want the world to know about me as an FX artist is that I am deeply passionate about my craft. I am committed to delivering the highest quality work and constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. My dedication to storytelling, attention to detail, and commitment to collaboration make me a valuable asset to any project. I strive to leave a lasting impact through my work and contribute to the magic of visual effects that captivate audiences worldwide.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
No visit to Atlanta is complete without indulging in its vibrant music scene. We’ll catch a live performance at the historic Fox Theatre, known for its stunning architecture and world-class shows. We’ll also venture into local jazz and blues clubs, immersing ourselves in the soulful sounds that have shaped the city’s cultural fabric.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a special shoutout to FuseFX, an exceptional visual effects company. Their commitment to innovation, technical expertise, and artistic excellence is truly commendable. The talented team at FuseFX consistently delivers stunning visual effects that enhance the storytelling of numerous films and television shows. Their dedication to collaboration, professionalism, and pushing the boundaries of creativity sets them apart in the industry. I am grateful to be a part of such an inspiring company that fosters growth, supports its artists, and consistently produces outstanding work.

Website: https://genlifx.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muji_lee/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genli20/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lee1Richie

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/genli20

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@genli25

Image Credits
Gen Li

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.