Ri-Ann Pully shares her journey from Bermuda to Hollywood, the importance of creating spaces for underrepresented voices and advice for young creatives on navigating self-doubt and building a lasting career in film
By Bambi Nyembo
Ri-Ann Pully’s journey into cinema is a testament to the power of resilience and creativity. Growing up as a queer person of colour, she faced numerous challenges and rejections that might have deterred a less determined individual. However, instead of succumbing to societal pressures or conventional expectations, Ri-Ann channelled her diverse artistic background — spanning dance, fashion and visual art — into her current role as a visual effects (VFX) artist.
Transitioning from her roots in Bermuda, she moved to North America to further her education and immerse herself in the creative scene. Over the years, she has worked on high-profile projects like SpongeBob SquarePants and Umbrella Academy, earning recognition for her distinct style and commitment to her craft. Pully’s work as a film editor has been screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, Inside Out Film Festival, American Black Film Festival and CineFilm. However, the road to success was not without its obstacles. The process can be intense, with constant feedback and critiques challenging her to separate her artistic self-worth from the often harsh realities of the industry.
I sat down with PullyRi-Ann to discuss her journey into filmmaking, her opinion on the current issues in the industry and how future filmmakers can grow and sustain their confidence.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Can you share a bit about your background and how you came to cinema?
I grew up in an artistic environment, constantly dancing, drawing and exploring various creative avenues. I never thought I’d end up in film, but it felt like a natural progression. After dabbling in different forms of art, I discovered my passion for visual effects (VFX) and knew I had to pursue it.
What has your journey in the VFX industry been like?
It hasn’t been easy! When I started, I faced the challenges of a tiered system. As a compositor, we often receive shots last, and if the filmmakers don’t like it, it comes back to us. You have to separate yourself from the art and not take criticism personally. It’s hard, but the satisfaction of getting that green tick next to your shot is what keeps me going.
That sounds incredibly intense. How do you manage that stress?
It’s definitely a challenge to keep the stress down. But that moment of approval is priceless. It makes all the hard work worthwhile.
The struggle is real in the VFX world, where the pressure to deliver perfection can be overwhelming. Yet, Pully emphasizes the importance of resilience and maintaining a clear vision. Her commitment to honing her craft and pushing boundaries has positioned her as a force in the industry. Through her journey, she has not only grown as an artist but also as an advocate for change, pushing for greater diversity and inclusion in her field.
Understanding the need for representation and the importance of creating spaces for marginalized voices, Pully founded her creative hub, Liveations. This initiative allows artists from diverse backgrounds to share their work, network and foster community.
You founded a creative hub called ‘Liveations.’ What inspired you to create that space?
I realized that instead of waiting for invitations to collaborate, I needed to create those spaces myself. It’s about representation and ensuring diverse voices are heard. I wanted to curate events that uplift marginalized artists and provide opportunities for them to shine.
Why do you think creating your own space is so important?
Representation matters. It’s crucial to have environments where different stories can be told. When I felt disconnected, I built my own circles. We need to make room for queer stories, POC stories, Indigenous stories—every narrative deserves a platform.
How has community played a role in your work?
Community is everything. When you surround yourself with like-minded people, creativity flourishes. I want to encourage others to build networks that foster collaboration and support.
The importance of community is a recurring theme in Pully’s work, and she understands that collaboration can amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard. Through ‘Liveations,’ she not only showcases the work of others but also engages in meaningful conversations about representation and access to the arts.
In doing so, Ri-Ann’s journey has equipped her with invaluable insights that she eagerly shares with aspiring artists.
What advice do you have for young creatives, especially those from marginalized communities?
So many young people hear ‘no’ too often, often tied to their identities. But if I had listened to that, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Give yourself grace. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. You are not your job.
Self-doubt can be crippling. How can young creatives overcome that?
Follow your passion. Don’t let societal expectations dictate your path. At the end of the day, it’s about finding joy in what you do. That’s what makes you a successful artist.
Mental health is a critical issue in creative industries. What’s your perspective on that?
It’s okay to seek help. You’re not alone in this. I’ve struggled with mental health challenges, and being open about my experiences has helped me connect with others facing similar issues. We need to talk about it more.
From our conversation, it’s clear that Pully strives to pave the way for diverse voices in the film industry, changing the narrative that Western stories are the only ones that should be told. Through her work in VFX, Liveations and unwavering support for young creatives, she inspires individuals to embrace their artistic journeys without fear, stating, “making a place for [herself] and others to be heard has brought collaborations that may have never been possible.”
With her commitment to resilience, representation, and revolutionizing the creative landscape, Ri-Ann Pully is a reminder to craft the change you want to see in the industry for a brighter future for everyone. Through her journey, she demonstrates that success is not just about personal achievements but also about lifting others as you rise, creating a legacy of empowerment in film. As she aptly puts it, “There’s nothing worse than regret. Go after your dreams and put yourself in spaces that make you feel uncomfortable.”
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