Intern Exclusive: Masuma “Masu” Begum
Masu Begum is currently an intern in TAP’s Virtual Intensive Training Internship. She is also a recent graduate of Montclair State University with a BFA in animation and minor in film. We asked Masu a few Qs about her experience as a TAP intern, thoughts on animation as activism, and more.
What is one of your favorite animated characters and why?
My favorite animated characters are Joel from That Last of Us, Guts and Griffith from Berserk, and too many to add! These characters are in the grey area of morality, not entirely good nor evil. I feel that perfectly reflects humankind as we try to navigate the story of our lives in any way we can. Plus, I love tragic backstories! It's much more interesting to enjoy a character you watch grow versus one that's self-proclaimed as perfect.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from other pieces' of work, real-life and even my own life. I never got the chance to see a positive Desi lead in any of the media I consumed growing up, so I'd like to reflect my identity into the characters or stories I create.
What brought you to TAP?
Graduating into an economy that is in recession due to a global pandemic is the biggest obstacle was something I never expected. Like many other graduates, we stress if we're ever going to get a job or not, and this unprecedented event amplified those worries. The only art experience I was lucky to obtain was graphic design but wasn't able to get into animation. I'm fortunate I was able to stumble upon TAP and this internship, as I felt that no other studio would recognize my potential. I know I'm not where I want to be, but I'm thankful TAP was able to see my efforts and help me cultivate it ever. Studios and businesses closed and to this day, I still worry that I won’t be able to have a job that I always dreamed of. With TAP, I am making portfolio pieces I am finally proud of.
How has your experience changed since the beginning of internship to now?
At first, I was both excited and worried. Excited because I finally obtained an animation internship but worried if I was ever good enough. I never had the proper resources or guides prior to graduation and that made me believe I wasn't meant for success and that I should give up. Now, I'm steadily working, with or against these insecurities. Despite it all, my creations will improve and speak to someone out there. TAP inspires me to continuously create and improve my craft, thanks to faculty and peers that are super supportive.
What is something you accomplished at TAP that you are proud of?
At first I was falling behind. With the pandemic making my personal life difficult, I couldn't quite devote time to my projects as I promised myself I would. I would spend too long working on projects, trying to perfect them the best I can, and then another project would be due! TAP and their compassion made it less guilty to be late regarding projects, as long as I'm continuously working or polishing them. Now I been slowly catching up and this devotion to time and slowly but surely polishing my projects is what I'm proud of. It also helps that I received two MediaMKRS badges thus far (and hopefully more to count)!
Do you think animation can be activism? If so, how?
Art forms have always been used to convey the artist's voice. Whether it be a comedy, drama, documentary, and activism included. To not see that animation can be activism is silencing a creator's voice and their passion. Activism can come in many forms and animation is just another viable form of self-expression.
What advice do you have for BIPOC aspiring animators?
What's important is community and solidarity. We must strive to uplift one another in an industry that slowly improving with others such as yourself. Our voices all must be heard and we have to amplify those who are less represented or cannot be heard. If you are not being heard, we also have the ability to create our own space as well. You can create your own platform so that you can be celebrated in the way you always wanted to.