Hi, my name is Diana Chinalieva 👋
I am currently a PhD researcher in Theater, Digital Media and AI, having worked as a compositing artist before. My first job in the industry was completed at Moving Picture Company (MPC).
My journey into the world of Visual Effects wasn’t as straightforward. It took a few years of exploring videography, merging into photography, and honing my skills in post-editing. These experiences led me to the fascinating realm of VFX, where I found answers to questions I couldn’t find anywhere else.
During my university studies, I discovered the world of post-production and the opportunity to enter this sphere. After completing an MA in Visual Effects at the University of Arts, London, I was fortunate to join MPC. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working on exciting projects and collaborating with talented artists.
I can proudly share that I’ve participated in TV series such as Silo and Wheel of Time, season 2, Mufasa: The Lion King and Snow White. I am well-versed in compositing software, and my expertise lies in Nuke. In addition to Nuke, I also gained experience at various levels in Houdini, Maya and Adobe suite, such as Premiere Pro, After Effects and Lightroom.
As the industry evolved through challenges like the Hollywood strikes and the emergence of AI technologies, I found myself at a crossroads. The shifting landscape encouraged me to think differently about my career path. I decided to embrace this moment of change by pursuing a PhD in Theater, Digital Media and AI. This decision allows me to deepen my understanding of the creative and technical forces shaping our field. This academic journey isn’t a departure from my passion for VFX, but rather an expansion of it, giving me new perspectives on how art and technology can coexist and evolve together.
I remain driven to grow both as an artist and researcher, learning from incredible professionals in our field while contributing my own evolving perspective. I am enthusiastic about connecting with fellow artists, researchers and innovators. Whether through collaboration on creative projects, knowledge sharing, or exploring new opportunities at the intersection of art and technology, I believe our industry’s future lies in diverse perspectives coming together. Let’s continue to push boundaries and create meaningful work that resonates with audiences.
DIANA CHINALIEVA 