Ciara Borgards is a 24-year-old animation director and visual effects artist, born in Mexico City to a German father and a Mexican mother. During her school years, Ciara was a competitive track and field athlete and pianist. She graduated from the International Film School of Cologne in 2023 with a Bachelor of Film. During her studies, she worked as a Look Development Artist for the Warner Bros. feature film "Lauras Stern", won the Daniel Wellington social media campaign, and exhibited illustrations for the UNICEF art campaign "Violence Against Children". Her first 3D animated short film, "Pirouette", was shown at FMX 2022 and has been screened at over twenty film festivals. Ciara has just finished her next film, "Flying From War", which combines live-action and animation.
What interests you most about your specific division or program at SCA?
What really caught my attention about my division was the opportunity to experience and understand the animation and film pipeline in a truly holistic way. The program provides a well-rounded education while also allowing students the flexibility to delve deeper into specific areas of expertise, tailoring their learning to their individual preferences. Beyond the comprehensive learning opportunities, the classes are taught by industry professionals. People who helped bring some of your favourite movies to the screen. The motivation that comes from knowing the profound impact your professors have had on your life is truly unparalleled.
Why did you choose SCA?
I chose SCA because of its intriguingly challenging film and animation program. Never before have I worked on so many projects in such a short amount of time. The program constantly pushes you to grow, offering opportunities to create in a variety of ways, whether through purely animation, a combination of animation and live-action, or using technologies like green screens and LED walls. With everything SCA has to offer, students truly have the chance to explore all the diverse facets of filmmaking.
What has been your biggest challenge at SCA so far?
My biggest challenge at SCA so far has been deciding which projects to contribute to alongside working on my own. Filmmaking is a collaborative effort, and student productions are always looking for support from peers. With so many talented students and impactful projects, it’s always been difficult to decide which ones to support. What reassures me, however, is knowing that so many of these films are truly outstanding and significant. Whatever project I choose to work on, there’s no wrong decision.
What has been your biggest success?
I have the honor of organizing Studio Day, an event where studios from various areas of expertise, animation, visual effects, motion graphics, and games, come to our school to hold one-on-one meetings with students. As an international student, I had always dreamed of speaking with them but never had the opportunity. Studio Day creates a unique proximity to these studios, making such interactions possible.
Is there a project you are working (or have completed) that you're especially proud of?
I had an idea for a project four years ago that I tried to turn into a film. However, the concept was too difficult to grasp at the time, and I wasn’t able to succeed. I shared the idea and my initial attempt with a professor, who encouraged me by saying it would be a challenging but exciting journey and that I should give it another try. Little did I know that after just one semester of deep story exploration with different professors at USC, I would be able to take that vague idea, one that had previously failed, and transform it into a five-minute film. The film is called "Flying From War".
How has SCA prepared you so far for the career you want?
SCA has enabled me to expand my skill set and gain knowledge in additional areas of the film pipeline. Not only do I feel better equipped to enter the industry, but it has also positively transformed the way I approach creative tasks. It has broadened my perspective, exposing me to new methods, art forms, and styles.
What advice do you have for prospective students looking to apply to SCA?
My advice to prospective students is not to be afraid to explore any idea that comes to mind. SCA is a place that embraces all ideas, no matter how bold or unconventional.