I met Ana Gusson at university while we were both studying graphic design in southern Brazil. Our friendship started when we had the chance to collaborate in video productions where we formed a pretty badass team, she as a Production Designer and I as a Cinematographer. Our friendship grew and we both moved to Canada. Ana studied Classical Animation in Vancouver while I ended up in Ottawa.
Despite being far away we have always kept in touch and it has been a privilege to follow her career growth. While working as a 2D animator and 2D artist, Ana Gusson seemed to have found her creative voice. It all started with her first short film Serio, a beautiful homage to her grandfather’s life, a transportation to a slower-paced, beautiful and nostalgic reality of a shoemaker in the countryside of our home country.
Her latest work, directing Pivot at the WIA Vancouver ACE Program, is a story of empowerment and courage through the eyes of a 12-year-old. Watching Ana’s stories, especially nowadays, provides a break from a sometimes bleak world as they always transport me to a world of gentleness and subtle joy. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
-Writen by Tanise Marchezan Cabral – friend
Which ‘hood are you in?
You can find me at Marpole, in south Vancouver. I love strolling around the calm streets of the neighbourhood and getting a warm coffee at Gigi Blin. My favourite spots are Winona Park and the Langara trail, where I can take a break or have a refreshing walk.
What do you do?
I’m a director, a 2D animator and a 2D artist.
What are you currently working on?
We’ve recently launched ‘Pivot’, a 2D animated short film, directed by me. I’m currently dedicating my time to managing it’s festival run and promotional strategies alongside our team.
I’m currently taking a break from animating and spending time with my family in my home country Brazil – due to the pandemic, I haven’t been able to be here for them in a long time. I’m glad I finally get to do this for me and for them.
Where can we find your work?
‘Pivot’ is currently running on the festival circuit.
You can find ‘Serio’ and my other previous work on my website and for snippets of my daily life and work, check my Instagram.
