Professional Studio Experience
Big Stuff Designs
Website: Bigstuffdesign.com
Big Stuff Designs in Essex was my first experience of a professional studio. Run by Tony and Daniel Diaz, Big Stuff specialises in giant polycarves, which is why I looked to gain some experience in their studio in April 2015. I contributed to a giant shark polysculpt that was in progress, as well as carving some giant pillows. I also spent time doing paint touch-ups on some returned sculpts from clients looking to have their work spruced up. Overall, the experience was very enjoyable, and I look forward to possibly working with Big Stuff again in the future.
Pinewood Studios
Website: Pinewoodgroup.com
After completing my Prop Making degree I started as a junior maker at Pinewood Studios, specifically Lunak Heavy industries. I was working in the mould room for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. This involved demoulding pieces of the various Stormtrooper armours, cleaning and reprepping the moulds, and then cleaning up the casts. Towards the end of the project, I was involved in repairing the casts once they had been used in various shoots. The whole three months was very time-intensive, frequently spilling into 60-hour weeks.