Hello! My name is Gianni Castellano,

I am a MFA student in Animatronics at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA). I’m an animatronics  technical artist with a strong focus on character performance, mechanical storytelling, and bringing believable life to physical creations.

My work sits at the intersection of engineering and artistry—combining mechanics, fabrication, electronics, and performance principles to create expressive animatronic characters. With a background in technical animation and visual effects, I approach animatronics with a deep understanding of anatomy, movement, and realism, always prioritizing clarity of motion and emotional intent. I’m especially interested in creature work, character-driven design, and systems that support nuanced performance for film, themed entertainment, and live experiences.

Outside the studio, I enjoy hiking, archery, and playing table top games with my friends.