Min-Maxing Life Stages: Kirie Quackenbush Shares Her Journey from Storytelling to The Sims
At the 2024 Mosaic Event, students had the unique opportunity to hear from Indianapolis-based Kirie Quackenbush, a Cinematic Artist for The Sims at Electronic Arts. Kirie’s journey from Grand Rapids to the gaming industry showcased the power of storytelling and creative exploration. Through her engaging presentation, Kirie reflected on her personal path, weaving together lessons from her childhood, academic pursuits, and professional career.
Discovering the Joy of Storytelling
As an only child, Kirie immersed herself in storytelling from a young age. Her love for imagination led her to create her first film with friends—a simple, heartfelt project that sparked her passion for filmmaking. In high school, she used platforms like The Sims to produce creative videos, one of which garnered more than 20,000 subscribers and millions of views on YouTube.
“I wasn’t comparing myself to anyone; I was just having fun and doing what I loved,” she shared, encouraging students to embrace their unique perspectives and creative experiments without fear of judgment.
Turning Passion into a Career
After graduating from Grand Valley State University with a film and video production degree, Kirie landed roles at industry giants like Rockstar Games, Adobe, and, ultimately, Electronic Arts. Her work on The Sims has allowed her to combine storytelling with technology, creating engaging content and expanding what’s possible in gaming.
Kirie shared examples of her favorite projects, including a trailer for The Sims: Life and Death Pack, which she described as a return to her creative roots.
“Every day, I get to customize and create worlds that players enjoy, and that keeps me excited about what I do,” she said.
Lessons for the Next Generation
Kirie emphasized the importance of staying true to one’s passions while remaining adaptable and open to new opportunities. She advised students to:
Start creating early: Use the resources available to experiment and explore your creativity, even if the results aren’t perfect.
Stay persistent: Consistently work on your craft, as every project builds your skills and confidence.
Be adaptable: Embrace opportunities that may not align perfectly with your initial goals; they can open unexpected doors.
Prioritize balance: Passion is important, but managing your time and energy is essential to avoid burnout.
Inspiring the Future
Through her dynamic storytelling and relatable anecdotes, Kirie inspired students to explore the intersection of technology and creativity. Her journey highlighted that with determination, imagination, and a love for storytelling, they, too, could carve out their paths in the creative industries.
The Mosaic Film Experience is grateful to Kirie Quackenbush, as well as the incredible workshop speakers, sponsors, and volunteers, for making the 2024 Mosaic Event a memorable and inspiring day of learning.
