Workshops Meetups Public Speaking SHSM Mentoring Reach Ahead
Your Friendly Neighborhood VFX Coach
With over a decade in the film industry, I’ve worked on groundbreaking projects like The Mandalorian, Halo, Star Trek: Discovery, and The Fall of the House of Usher. My focus is on pushing the boundaries of visual effects through stunning, realistic characters and creatures, as well as lookdev techniques.
My greatest fulfillment comes from nurturing the next generation of artists. As the Program Liaison for 3D Modeling and Visual Effects at Humber College, I teach Texturing and Portfolio & Career Connections.
I also design the curriculum and handle applications to attract talented individuals eager to excel in this dynamic field.
In addition to my teaching role, I serve as a Character/Creature and Look Development Lead, bringing industry insights directly into the classroom.
If you’re interested in enhancing your program with engaging guest speaking or workshop sessions, I’d love to connect!
Schedule an Introduction
What is SHSM?
The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a specialized high school program that allows students to earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and focus their learning on a specific economic sector at the same time.
Students develop skills for their future careers, graduate high school with industry certifications and training and earn an SHSM seal on their high school diploma.
Read More: https://www.ontario.ca/page/specialist-high-skills-major
What is a Reach Ahead Experience?
Students pursuing an SHSM must have opportunities for reach ahead experiences connected with their postsecondary plans.
These experiences enable Grade 11 and 12 students to gain confidence in their ability to be successful, refine skills and work habits, and make informed choices about future careers and next steps.
Reach ahead opportunities could include:
interviewing an employee in the field of work the SHSM student is considering;
visiting an approved apprenticeship training delivery agent to investigate a program of interest to the SHSM student;
interviewing a college or university student enrolled in a program of interest to the SHSM student;
attending a number of college or university classes in the student's area of interest;
attending a conference or workshop held by the sector
Read More: https://www.ontario.ca/page/specialist-high-skills-major
SHSM Workshops & Reach Ahead Experiences
I’m excited to announce that I now offer SHSM Certifications in Portfolio Development and Reach Ahead Experiences for the Arts & Culture Sector.
Join me for an exciting journey into the world of visual effects, where your artistic talent can shine!
In intimate workshops, I’ll mentor you on transforming your art skills into a standout VFX portfolio that meets industry expectations.
As a guest speaker, I’ll share captivating behind-the-scenes stories and insights and explore how visual effects come to life, highlighting the exciting career paths in the film industry. Discover how your passion for art can lead to extraordinary opportunities in visual effects!
SHSM
Highlighting You: Personalized Portfolio Workshop - In-Person
Contact for Pricing - 20 Student Maximum
2.5 hour workshop
An interactive VFX portfolio workshop, where aspiring artists can bring their portfolios for personalized feedback. Showcase your work in a supportive environment, gain valuable industry insights, and learn how to enhance your portfolio for college applications and future career opportunities in visual effects.
SHSM
Highlighting You: Personalized Portfolio Workshop - Virtual
Contact for Pricing - 10 Students Maximum
1.5 hour workshop
An intimate virtual workshop where artists can receive feedback on their portfolios. With a limited class size, you'll get tailored insights on your work, from concept art to finished pieces. Gain valuable industry perspective to enhance your portfolio for college applications supportive online environment.
Reach Ahead
Beyond the Screen: Exploring VFX Careers!
Contact for Pricing
1 hour Guest Speaker/Interview
Join me for an engaging discussion on how visual effects blend art and technology. Learn about the various career opportunities that allow you to innovate and create in the ever-evolving media landscape
I’m dedicated to helping students elevate their portfolios and boost their confidence. During my school visits, I engage with their work enthusiastically, offering practical tips to create standout portfolios that impress college admissions.
I understand the emotional side of being an artist—the doubts and creative blocks. I’ve been there, and I know how crucial it is to navigate those feelings.
Through constructive feedback, I aim to inspire self-belief and resilience. Together, we’ll transform those portfolios into impressive showcases of talent ready to shine in the VFX, games, and animation industry.
Let’s make your artistic aspirations a reality!
Schedule an Introduction
What is VFX?
Visual Effects, commonly referred to as VFX, is the art and science of creating imagery that enhances or alters reality in film, television, and video games. It encompasses a wide range of techniques used to combine live-action footage with computer-generated elements, allowing filmmakers to bring fantastical worlds and impossible scenarios to life. From breathtaking landscapes to mythical creatures, VFX enables storytellers to push the boundaries of imagination and create visually stunning experiences that captivate audiences.
At its core, VFX involves manipulating images during post-production to produce effects that are either too dangerous, expensive, or impractical to capture on set. This includes everything from subtle enhancements like adding atmospheric elements to grand spectacles such as explosions or entire digital environments. With advancements in technology and software, VFX has become an essential tool in modern filmmaking, transforming how stories are told and experienced on screen.
More to Watch
Check out more interviews, demo reels and content here!
More to Discover
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Toronto Animation Arts Festival International
Job Fair and Conference for All Ages!
The Toronto Animation Arts Festival International, or TAAFI, is the animation festival that welcomes a massive audience of talented professionals, students, studios and enthusiasts, year after year.TAAFI’S Mission is to showcase incredible animation and the creators behind it. TAAFI is a local reunion for global animation.
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Humber 3D Modelling & Visual Effects
1 Year Intensive Certificate Program Geared Towards Second Career Students
The intensive 3D Modelling and Visual Effects Production Certificate program is designed by CG and VFX artists for experienced traditional artists and/or anyone who is artistically and technically inclined and who wants to either develop or transition their skillsets for employment in the 3D and visual effects industries. -
Humber Animation - 3D
3 Year Diploma Program Geared Towards Beginners
Description goes hereIn the Animation 3D Advanced Diploma program, you will develop a well-rounded knowledge base and skillset that includes strong art, animation, modelling and visualization abilities. Developed with the input of industry advisors, this program gives you a thorough understanding of the latest 3D digital art technologies and prepares you for the ever-expanding 3D art field. -
Visual Effects Society
Check Out The Toronto Calendar for Events Open to the Public!
The Visual Effects Society (VES) is a global honorary society representing the innovative and creative world of VFX across all areas of entertainment. We have over 5,000 members in 50 countries. We educate, inspire, and celebrate.
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WeFX Inc.
Want to See More From Local Toronto Artists? Click Here!
WeFX is a Toronto based VFX studio founded in 2020 that has quickly grown to a core team of over 100 dedicated professionals. Our focus on quality and cutting-edge technology allows us to deliver exceptional creative results while working closely with clients to exceed their expectations.
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Join the Houdini "HUG" Events
Geared Towards Industry Professionals and Software Enthusiasts
Houdini User Groups bring together artists to talk about their experiences working with Houdini's node-based workflow in production.
Now HUGS from around the world are coming together to create a series of online presentations.Here is a schedule of upcoming presentations. This list will grow as more HUGs join in.
