We’re looking forward to introducing you to Felipe Amaya. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Felipe, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
This is an interesting question. I work from home, so my day usually starts with stretching a bit, making breakfast, and having my coffee. The coffee part is essential for me, not because I need the caffeine, but because it’s part of my daily ritual and helps me settle into work mode.
As a supervisor, my mornings start with a quick meeting with my team to check in on their progress, see if they have any concerns, and help them with any technical hurdles. After that, I join meetings for the different projects I’m involved in and then focus on my own tasks. I usually take on the more complex shots or work on developing tools for the team. I like keeping a balance between the technical and creative sides of my job. It keeps things interesting and prevents my day from feeling too managerial.
Once I clock out, I usually go out with my wife. We like to take walks, visit parks, or just run errands together. Sometimes we even sneak out during our lunch break to do the same, depending on how the day is going.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Felipe Amaya. I’m a visual effects artist and designer based in New York City. I specialize in Houdini, focusing on FX, proceduralism, and tool development. Over the years, I’ve gained a lot of production experience—starting out as a CG Generalist and later moving into roles as a technical FX artist and FX Supervisor. I’ve had the chance to work on a variety of commercial, film, and episodic projects, contributing both creatively and technically. I’m passionate about art and design, as well as the more technical side of things like scripting, problem-solving, and creating dynamic, procedural effects.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe in honesty and transparency because I think those are the foundations of any meaningful relationship, whether personal or professional. Lies, even small ones, tend to erode trust and eventually break bonds that might have taken years to build. That said, I also believe we’re all human, and we make mistakes. No one is perfect. What matters to me is the willingness to take responsibility, to reflect, and to grow from those moments. I think when someone recognizes their mistakes, sincerely apologizes, and makes an effort to do better, trust can be rebuilt and a bond can be restored, sometimes even stronger than before.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I guess my biggest fear used to be failure. There was a time when I would hesitate to take chances or pass up great opportunities just because I was too focused on what could go wrong. I’d get caught up in the idea of a negative outcome and completely overlook the possibility of a positive one. Over time, though, I realized that failure isn’t something to be terrified of; it’s actually one of the best teachers you can have. Even when things don’t go as planned, you come out of those experiences knowing more than before. These days, when new opportunities show up, I try to approach them with curiosity rather than fear. I remind myself that even if I stumble, I’ll still gain something valuable from the experience.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I rely a lot on my wife. She’s one of the most pragmatic, clever, and sincere people I know. She’s also my best critic because she’s honest and always constructive. Whenever I need guidance, feedback, or a different perspective, I turn to her. I really value her thoughts, opinions, and ideas, and I trust her judgment completely.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I try to give my best in everything I do, not for praise but for myself. Of course, we all enjoy being recognized, but I do not believe we should do things with that as the goal. I think it is more meaningful to put in the effort for our own growth and to take pride in the work itself rather than chasing approval.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.felipeamayaq.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/felipeamayaq/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felipeamayaq/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
