About me

Ello. I'm Betty, but professionally known as Rebecca Tzouliou. I'm a self-taught VFX and 3D artist, and proud winner of the 2023 Young Arrows Award in the Animation: 2D, Stop Motion and CGI category.
At the time, I was working as a Junior Designer at Electric Studios. The project that earned me the award was Virgin Media's 'Hyped' campaign, produced by VCCP and directed by Rollo Jackson.

My journey into the creative industry hasn't been the most conventional, but I would say an inspiring one. I actually started out as a Hair Colourist at Vidal Sassoon and then at my own Studio; 'Betty's Yard' in my native East London. It was a client who first introduced me to the world of 3D and Motion Graphics. I was instantly hooked with what she was talking about and wanted to know more, so with that I landed a running job at Untold hoping to make tea and learn something new.. except I didn't even get the chance to start as lockdown struck that same week!

I had already fallen down the design rabbit hole, so when the COVID lockdown hit, I got up every day and taught myself After Effects and Cinema 4D at home. Within a year I had my work hosted at a Gallery space for two weeks on the grounds of the William Morris gallery in Walthamstow.
I had my studio, and loyal hair clients at 'Betty's Yard', and a new new hobby making 3D art, but I wanted to take it further. In late 2022 I took my chatter and portfolio to the EP and ECD of Electric Studios, the brand new design department that opened up at Electric Theatre Collective and landed my new dream job as a Freelance Junior Designer. Later I was made their first permanent member of staff.

Since then I've had the chance to work on exciting campaigns for brands like Virgin Media, Channel 4, Amazon, Under Armour and Nandos to name a few.

When I won the Young Arrows award, I was genuinely surprised as I didn't realise I had even been nominated until a couple of days before! ETC put me forward and I was overwhelmed with gratitude. It really validated the risks I'd taken and reaffirmed my decision to follow my passion and leave my trade, all of this happened within months of joining the industry.

Beyond the creative work, I've been committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in Post Production and Advertising. I recently spoke at the Women in Film event hosted by Sticker Studios and The Young Arrows, where I had the chance to share my story and connect with others who are carving out their own unique and meandering paths into the industry. Every thing you do in life will bring you a skill that has been learned, and can be applied to anything you want to pursue, not necessarily a university degree.

The fact that my team suggested I put myself forward for Next Gen Talent of the Year warms my heart, but winning would mean even more. It would be a powerful recognition of the journey I've taken, one that's not been traditional but completely authentic to who I am. I've thrown myself into the craft, working hard to develop my skills in all areas, knowing that I bring something fresh to every project and a new perspective which I think sets me apart. Coming from outside the industry has taught me to approach problem solving differently, with empathy, curiosity and a real desire to learn every aspect of a job. Each project is an opportunity to explore new ground, challenge myself creatively and shine a light on ideas that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Thank you so much for reading!

Betty Tzouliou

Awards

British Arrows