In this in-depth conversation, Icelandic animator and director Sara Gunnarsdóttir traces her evolution from fine art student to internationally acclaimed filmmaker. She discusses how discovering experimental animation transformed her understanding of the medium, and how her practice blends live-action sensibilities, rotoscoped performance, and deeply personal storytelling.

Sara reflects on her early industry experiences, her commitment to actor-driven reference work, her love of experimentation, and the challenges of creative pressure, doubt and independent production. She also shares the remarkable development process behind My Year of Dicks, illustrating how persistence and artistic conviction can reshape a project’s destiny.

A candid and inspiring portrait of an artist who continues to expand what animated storytelling can be. With openness and clarity, Pedersen offers a rare look into the mindset of an artist who continues to expand what short-form and experimental animation can be.