by Abby Gregory
The “VFX Workflow: Collaboration and Design” presentation began at 2:30 p.m. Nov. 1, at the SCAD Museum of Art. Four guest speakers attended from Crafty Apes, a visual effects enterprise based in Atlanta, GA, to share their thoughts on how SCAD students can pursue their ideal career in the field of VFX.
Crafty Apes contributes to many well-known tv-series and films, including “Like a Boss,” Stranger Things,” “Spider-Man: Far From Home” and “The Act.” VFX Producer Matt Akey, Compositor Ndosi Anyabwile, 2D Compositor Tanner Bartlett and VFX Supervisor Sean Thigpen, each discussed their individual experiences in their career path, as well as their primary responsibilities.
Before concluding the discussion, Thigpen acknowledged that his experience with large, well-known companies could be intimidating. “With a kind personality, you will be given as many opportunities as you can imagine, and larger companies will respect you because in this day in age, respect goes a long way,” Thigpen said. Luckily, most films use VFX to enhance the audience’s experience, so there’s a need for VFX in the film industry. Finally, each guest speaker answered students’ questions in great detail to ensure everyone left the panel with a clear understanding of how to incorporate VFX into their desired career path.
