Today we’d like to introduce you to Doneilea Williams.
Doneilea, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
As a true Artist, I am infatuated with the ability to create. I see everything through a palette and a paint brush. Film has become one of my greatest challenges as an artist as well as my greatest passion. A few years back on a set from a film called “Ant-Man,” I initially witnessed how everything worked in the film industry. Ever since that experience, I knew my life would evolve. With no knowledge at all, I had to figure out how I could get my foot in the door somehow.
At that time, I was working at the Ritz Carlton hotel in Atlanta. As time passed, I transitioned to a ride-sharing job and came across someone who worked in the film industry. Since then, we connected and she introduced me to extra work at Tyler Perry Studios. It took me a few months to learn the logistics but then, I was eager to get further into this business. I was amazed by how much teamwork it took to bring a film together. From every equipment on set, I saw it as another art palette and brush.
I was so eager to know how all the equipment work and how can I own my own equipment. In 2016 I auditioned for my first role in a short film at SCAD called “Age of Preference”. It allowed me to learn the front end of being in a film and how challenging it is being an actor. At that moment, I was hungry to create my own art, that it drove me to saved up enough to create my very first film called “HIT” in 2017. The film was a struggle but one of my greatest accomplishments.
I learned directing, producing, acting, budgeting, time management and editing all in three weekends. Because it was my first rodeo, the biggest lesson was not to wear so many hats and learn the value of crew. I tried to complete a big-budget film with little to nothing in my pocket.
That experience alone kept me pushing to another level, where I was inspired by other successful filmmakers that went through the same and succeeded. I then created my own production company “Arts Acrylics Studios,” where other inspired filmmakers today and I can come together to make inspiring films through art and motivate those who can’t do so.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
One of the greatest struggles I have faced throughout my film career is the limited amount of time to fully implement projects. As an artist, I can be a perfectionist when it comes to craft, there’s never enough time on set. Not everyone will comprehend the value of taking out time and paying attention to details from pre-production to post-production. Limited support can also be a significant challenge when producing a film. A strong support system within the film industry creates success and consistency.
Please tell us about Arts Acrylics Studios – what should we know?
Our business primarily consists of romance, drama and action films. As well as commercials and anything that represents art. This company literally started from selling paintings at art shows to creating inspirational films. I’m proud of how far Arts Acrylics came and the direction it’s heading. What makes us apart from others within the film industry is our pride into paying attention to every detail, no matter how minute.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
The biggest support in my journey is someone named God. Wouldn’t know were I was going without him. Secondly I want to shout out a guy named James Holmes. This guy was there since I started my first film “HIT”. It started when I needed a motorcycle for my project and I stopped him on his motorcycle in the middle of an intersection. I asked him to use his motorcycle and from then on, James wouldn’t hesitate to come on set to help with anything. From bringing his drone whenever in need or just to supports the company in any way needed. My mom, Suzette Hendricks was also financial help and mentor as well. Regardless of how far away in the Cayman Islands she is, my mother is always there with me one hundred percent. Can’t forget my physical mentor Diezie Sahn, who coaches me along the way to stay fit physically and Olumba obu who coaches me spiritually. If it wasn’t for Sierra Hoskins my health would not be where it is now. Health is wealth and diet is a big factor in my life. My father Joseph Williams and teammates: Angel Ortiz, Akil Wade, the Obu’s, Samantha Smith along the way are a blessing because they are people I know I can trust and build with along my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artsacrylicsstudios.com
- Phone: 6788336314
- Email: info@artsacrylicsstudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doneilea/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doneilea.williams
Image Credit:
kola Adetola
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