Framestore

Have you always wanted a career in this industry?

After graduating with a fine art sculpture degree I soon realized that Visual Effects was what I really wanted to do. I loved painting and sculpting, but I was also fascinated by the excitement and versatility that VFX had to offer. I wanted to move up the industry ladder but yet didn't have the time or means to earn another degree.

How did you find out about Escape and what was it like?

After graduating I worked as a runner at Rushes Post Production. I met two recent Escapees who were working as animators. They told me about Escape and how they'd found it to be useful for developing their skills in 3D.

After talking with the student liaison staff and taking a tour of the studios, I knew that this was the right step for me. The staff at Escape were incredibly helpful, encouraging and always on hand to answer any questions.

The course at Escape was incredibly well structured and disciplined. Having no background in computer art or animation, I thought I would struggle to keep up, but I found myself fitting in perfectly with my fellow classmates and I enjoyed every single step.

What have you been doing since your course?

After finishing my course in March 2007, I spent time working in the Escape Pods. After completing my showreel I freelanced at Smoke and Mirrors before Escape's recruitment department placed me at Framestore which is where I am currently working now.

What advice would you give to any prospective students?

Think carefully about what it is you want from the course. It's highly rewarding but also labor intensive and requires commitment and hard work. I don't think I'd be where I am today if I hadn't put in 110%. I believe that risks are always worth taking if you have the passion and determination to succeed.