How Animation Filmmaker Charuvi Agrawal Taps Into Her Artistic Power Of Expression

Charuvi Agrawal often finds inspiration in the world around her, whether it's the people she interacts with, the places she visits, or the issues that impact our society. As an artist and a filmmaker, her path has been one full of challenges, a learning, she says, that empowered her to constantly up her graph.

From promoters backing out at the last minute from her dream project to ultimately co-funding the film herself, she has come a long way since. Today, she is the proud founder of Charuvi Design Labs (CDL), Asia's fastest-growing animation studio and design lab.

In an interview with SheThePeople, she discusses her work as an artist, her filmmaking venture, the rise of animation, and why it's crucial to address the still prevalent gender gap across filmmaking.

Charuvi Agrawal Interview

What inspired your entry into the world of art and filmmaking?

My fascination with art and painting began in my childhood, and I was particularly captivated by the artistic power of expression. This love and passion for art continued throughout my school years, and in class seven, I created miniature statues of prominent politicians, which earned me a place in the Limca Book of Records. Eventually, my passion for art and storytelling led me to pursue a career in fine arts and animation, as I believe these mediums have the potential to create impactful experiences that inspire, educate, and unite people.

I earned a Bachelor's degree in fine arts from the Delhi College of Arts, India, in 2005, and a Master's in computer animation from Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Canada. In addition, the limitless possibilities of digital technology and its ability to push the boundaries of creativity influenced me a lot. As a multimedia artist, animator, and filmmaker, I am constantly exploring new techniques and technologies to introduce projects, which are innovative, dynamic, and engaging in nature. These inspirations continue to fuel my work and drive me to design new avenues aimed at positioning India’s animation and visual art prowess on the global stage.

What were the kinds of challenges you faced when you first started?

Men have historically dominated the animation industry, and it can be difficult for women to break through and gain recognition for their work. As a female artist in a male-dominated industry, I have faced unique challenges that have impacted my growth and development. But these challenges were also the driving force behind my strength to stand up for myself and other women in this industry.

However, in recent years, India has witnessed a surge of talented and accomplished female animators and artists who have shattered the glass ceiling and are making their mark in the industry. Through networking and collaboration, I have been able to connect with other artists who understand and can relate to my experiences.

When I began working on my dream project, Shri Hanuman Chalisa, the promoter unexpectedly withdrew their support, leaving me in a highly stressful situation. Along with my team, I worked for endless hours and ended up co-funding the film ourselves. Completed in over three years, the film was a vastly complex work of art and animation. We revolutionised the Indian animation scenario by creating thousands of interesting characters and 40 mesmerising environments. This was never done before in the Indian animation landscape then. We even adapted it into a tablet application and book. Though the entire process was full of challenges and risks, it ultimately blessed the people associated with this film with unique strength and resilience.

How did Charuvi Design Labs happen?

In 2007, I embarked on my career with the release of my first film, '10th Avatar' which gained recognition at international film festivals and opened doors for me to speak at computer graphics conferences. Upon returning to India, I received an offer to create a 3D animation film about the life of Hanuman, a Hindu god. My mother's encouragement and my unwavering passion for animation pushed me to take on the challenge. With this project, I founded Charuvi Design Labs (CDL), which has today become Asia's fastest-growing animation studio and design lab.

At CDL, we specialize in designing, animating, directing, and producing various forms of digital artwork, including pre-visualization and conceptual artwork, 3D and 2D animation, digital media, television commercials, application and game designs, interactive physical media installations, augmented reality, and intellectual property creation. Our work has received widespread attention, with headlines being made by our 25-foot sculpture of Hanuman, made of 26,500 bells, installed at Delhi's Select CityWalk mall. CDL has also gained recognition for its innovative artwork, including the 16-foot storybook Kaavad, Figurines of Lord Hanuman, and Asuras. Our mission at CDL is to elevate Indian animation to the global stage by showcasing unique concepts and exemplary artwork.

How did you find your calling in the animation genre? What inclines you to turn everyday things into art?

As a child, I discovered my passion for art when my self-portrait was deemed "mature" for my age by my art teacher, and went on to win a competition. In seventh grade, I crafted miniature statues that landed in the Limca Book of Records, further fuelling my love for the arts. After graduating as a gold medallist in fine arts from Delhi College of Art in 2005, I was drawn to the world of animation. Pursuing my passion, I moved to Canada to study animation at the Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, where I collaborated with the best artists from around the world, creating animations for TV shows and music videos.

For me, art is about celebrating the beauty of the world around us by transforming everyday objects and experiences into something extraordinary. I strive to make my work aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant, forging a connection with my audience that transcends the mundane. By embracing challenges and finding inspiration in unexpected places, I continue to explore the limitless potential of art, celebrating the world's beauty and significance through my work.

From when you started to now, what factors have had the biggest impact on your growth as an artist?

I believe that my growth as an artist has been shaped by a multitude of factors, both personal and professional, that have contributed to my artistic journey.

One of the most significant factors that have impacted my growth is my willingness to take risks and step outside of my comfort zone. Whether it's experimenting with new mediums or exploring unfamiliar themes, I believe that taking calculated risks has allowed me to grow and evolve creatively.

Another key factor in my growth has been the support and encouragement of my parents and peers. Through collaboration and constructive feedback, I've been able to refine my skills, learn new techniques, and expand my artistic vision.

Who are the filmmakers that inspire you?

Hayao Miyazaki, James Cameron, Tim Burton, John Lasseter and Guillermo Del Toro are among the many filmmakers that inspire me.

Which project is closest to your heart?

There is a project that we are working on and has inspirations by people close to me and Indian society in the early part of last century. I cannot talk more about it but it’s the one closes to my heart and I shall see it coming to the screen in some form by next year.

Overall, my creative process and concerns are deeply connected to the idea that art can shape our understanding of the world and who we are as individuals. I believe that animation, film, and art have the power to change people's perceptions and contribute to creating a better world for all.

As a country, while we’re finally recognising female artists and filmmakers, the gap remains across levels. What are the shifts you’ve witnessed in this regard as someone who is on the inside?

As an animation filmmaker and artist, I have certainly witnessed some positive shifts in terms of recognising and promoting female artists and filmmakers, but there is still a long way to go.

However, it is crucial to address the gender gap at higher levels of the industry, such as in leadership positions and major studio productions. Despite the fact that females are more represented in universities, they are less represented in jobs. By creating more opportunities and support for women in leadership positions, promoting diverse representation, and challenging gender stereotypes and bias, we can work towards achieving gender equality in the industry.

As an artist and filmmaker, I believe that it is important to break away from male-oriented character stereotypes and create more diverse and inclusive characters, stories, and experiences. By doing so, we can inspire and empower the next generation of female artists and filmmakers to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on the world.

Ultimately, achieving gender equality in the industry requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including filmmakers, studios, audiences, and society as a whole.

What’s next in line with respect to upcoming projects?

In my most recent, I am currently working with multiple TV show pilots, exploring Metaverse, creating unique content for India’s rich museum legacy, and getting back to fine arts on the side. I am technically ambitious and always looking to connect with artists, producers, and filmmakers who have different viewpoints and share perspectives and ideas. Recently Charuvi Design labs completed two 30-minute animated films on Gautam Buddha’s Life Journey. These films are designed for permanent exhibition and projection in form of an immersive 360-degree sound and light show at the much-awaited upcoming theme parks in Shravasti (Uttar Pradesh) and Kapilavastu (on the India-Nepal Border). Taking the artistic power, mesmerizing scenes, visual imagination, and powerful message to the next level these films attempt to encapsulate the brief duration of Buddha’s exemplary life spent in Shravasti and Kapilavastu.

Our recently concluded project for Invoxel technologies at the five-day national philatelic exhibition by The Department of Posts in Delhi's Pragati Maidan was appreciated by the Hon’ble President of India and received a tremendous response from the general public. A virtual museum housing stamps exhibited across 3 galleries in a specially designed palace inspired by a GPO. With nearly 50 stamps on display in the virtual space, the immersive nature stems from the fabulous renditions of environments, flora, fauna, culture, art, and Indian heritage.

We are also working closely with international film production houses, corporates, billionaire/UHNWI families, public and private sector museums, and a plethora of world-class organisations.

What would you like to advise aspiring artists?

My advice to aspiring artists would be to keep practising and never give up on their passion. The world of animation is constantly evolving, and there are always new techniques and technologies to learn. It is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the industry and to be open to learning new skills. Networking and building relationships with other artists and professionals in the field can also be beneficial.

Never forget to have fun and enjoy the creative process. An animation is a unique form of art that allows you to bring your imagination to life. Embrace your creativity and always strive to push the boundaries of what's possible.

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