We had the good fortune of connecting with Rafael Navarro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rafael, why did you pursue a creative career?
It was all that truly made sense to me at the time and still even now, my true calling so to speak… I honestly don’t believe in fate, but art and the pursuit of it was always there, gnawing at me, even after i had decided to become a mathematician during my senior year of high school. It scared my parents frankly when i suddenly changed my path… But as the years went by, even winning an Emmy in animation and a Xeric award in comics, I’ve never regreted it. For what it’s worth, I still do my own taxes!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a storyboard artist of 30 years in the field of animation, it is without a doubt been a wonderous and privileged experience I’m most proud of. But as an auteur of comics of my own design, created for an artistic pursuit instead of a commercial one is something i hold much more closer to my heart. Aside from the freedom to create what you choose to create, the feeling of accomplishment of your own personal visions is just immaculate.

Trust me. Nothing beats making your own dreams come true…especially on your own terms.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, that depends on the friend and where their interests lie, not to mention their pleasure LOL. I suppose I’d follow that first.

But the best thing about the City Of Angels is that there is a plethora of places, things and activities to pursue and enjoy. And with the right direction, it can be a most memorable experience!

I know it sounds like a cop out, but it would be best to just trust me and then plan accordingly!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To all my instructors, both in my industry and in life… From my grade school teachers, to college professors, art instructors and to all I’ve had the pleasure and honour to be mentored by via journeymen programs. As well as childhood heroes ranging from cartoonists to fellow artists and directors of other genres such as film and animation. In essence, all who have either influenced or have impacted me enough to give pursuit to my dreams as well as a personal vision. But most importantly, to my parents, particularly my father who taught me one of my greatest assets, my drive and work ethic to always see the job through. Thank you ALL….

Website: https://rafaelnavarro.carbonmade.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/rafael_navarro007/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rafael.navarro

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.