Ani Sancianco

Hi, I’m Ani Sancianco, themed entertainment artist. I remember as a kid, I would always be drawing these ride ideas of mine to “hand to Walt Disney.” AKA, I would go into Disneyland’s guest relations office, submit my doodles to the cast members to give it to the big man upstairs! (knowing it was his apartment! Little did I know he was deceased.) I’m a recent graduate from University of California-San Diego, with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Speculative Design and minor in mathematics. My passion for themed entertainment started in my elementary days. While managing a rare skin condition and ongoing surgeries, my parents gifted me annual theme park passes—sparking a childhood full of magic despite the challenges. I graduated from UC San Diego with a B.A. in Speculative Design and a minor in Mathematics. While I initially explored several academic paths, it wasn’t until a major health setback from Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) forced me to slow down and reevaluate my life that I gained clarity. During this period, I realized that themed entertainment wasn’t just a childhood interest—it was the field that truly energized and inspired me. That realization led me to shift into Speculative Design, where I could fully explore storytelling, visual development, and experience design. At UCSD, I became deeply involved in the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA). I worked on the annual haunted maze project for three years—starting as a scare actor and fabricator before becoming Marketing Lead and eventually Art Director. I also competed in events like Ryerson Thrill Design, Haunt Comp, and the Ride Engineering Competition, taking on creative development roles involving layout design, storyboarding, scenic environments, animatronics, sound, and overall attraction vision. Later, as TEA President, I organized events, guided project teams, and designed interactive mini-escape room puzzles to showcase at student outreach events. After graduating, I received a scholarship through Big Break Foundation to take Designing for Themed Entertainment & Experiences with The Essential Art Department. I also became an Ignite Program Recipient through Big Break at IAAPA and earned an industry mentorship with Mason Schmitz from Parks & Associates—opportunities that strengthened my skills and broadened my industry perspective. I currently work at Universal Studios Hollywood as a barista, where I stay active within the company by joining Technical Women in Entertainment and participating in internal art contests and exhibitions. I also work seasonally as a Scenic Painter at Haunted Harvest, painting murals, wayfinding signage, and themed props & scenic elements. Across every project—from haunted attractions to themed environments, physical models, and concept art—I strive to create experiences that blend narrative, emotion, and imagination. My goal is always the same: build worlds that inspire wonder and leave lasting stories behind.