Shoaib Shawl is a young filmmaker, production designer and art director. Shoaib’s journey as a filmmaker began from his school where he was selected for the “Skilling India in Film and Television” workshop initiated by the “Film and Television Institute of India.
Hailing from Rajouri town, Shoaib has been brought up mainly in Jammu and Dehradun. After completing his schooling in Dehradun, he joined the New York Film Academy, Los Angeles. Shoaib is interested to project the art and culture of J&K
He moved to LA in 2019 and completed his BFA in Filmmaking program at the New York Film Academy in 2022. He was selected as a Production Designer for the prestigious Academy Gold Rising Program 2023 by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences where he was mentored by Emmy Winner and Academy Award Nominee Production Designer James Bissell and renowned Set Decorators – Susan Benjamin and KC FOX.
Following that, he was chosen among the 75 Creative Minds Of Tomorrow by the National Film Development Corporation (Government of India) as one of the three people in Art Direction. Shoaib has had the opportunity to work on several projects, giving him a diverse perspective of art and industry experience at a young age.
His short film “Beads of Breaths” was recently selected and premiered in Chicago, USA. The 75 CMOT will showcase and exhibit talent of these artists by producing short films as part of “48 Hour Film making Challenge” in group competition.
Shaoib says that the story of “Beads of Breath” revolves around an eccentric man who yearns to find the true nature of love while a web of speculation and intrigue amongst the villagers, their varied perspectives paint him as a puzzle to be deciphered.
The Himalayas, in their raw, resplendent glory, morph from mere backdrop to living characters, mirroring the emotional ebb and flow of the protagonists.
His artistic passion and an intense urge to explore his Pahari heritage infuse the film with a mystical aura. Alongside Usman Shawl’s captivating performance as the enigmatic protagonist, a talented ensemble cast featuring veteran Kashmiri actor Yousuf Shahnaz.
“Kashmir and Pahari regions hold a treasure trove of stories waiting to be unearthed, and I want to be their intrepid explorer” he said adding that his sights are set beyond the horizon.
Shaoib aims to shatter the stereotypical lens through which Kashmiri and Pahari narratives are often viewed. From the Sufi-infused life of an elder to the fantastical realms within a child’s imagination, he’s committed to unearthing and amplifying the untold stories woven into the rich tapestry of Jammu and Kashmir’s culture, he said.
“I have been fortunate to have supportive parents who, despite pursuing different career paths themselves, have been the driving force behind my decision to embark on this journey. I owe it to their unwavering love and encouragement,” he said.
“I had the privilege of serving as an Art Director for the upcoming film ‘Paper Flowers,’ directed by the talented Mahesh Pailoor, Shoaib said.
Adding, “I have also contributed as a Production Designer on music videos for renowned artists such as B Praak and Mohammad Faiz, collaborating with director Amanninder Singh.”
Shoaib says that his creative journey extends to being a Set Decorator and Scenic Artist for rock and roll bands like Ice Nine Kills, Kim Dracula, and From Ashes To New, working alongside Director Jenson Noen and Production Designer Albina Kim.
“My passion for painting remains vibrant. I have created captivating artworks, some featured in exhibitions, with more poised to debut in Los Angeles’ dynamic art scene. These experiences continue to shape my path,” he added.
Shoaib Shawl was also selected for its prestigious Academy Gold Rising Program of 2023. Amongst thousands of applicants, the Academy Gold Rising accepted a selected batch of emerging talent, across the globe, who demonstrates passion, prowess, and potential as a future leader in the film industry.
