Aspiring visual effects artists will have a unique opportunity to have their show reels critiqued by industry experts in an open  “Battle of the Reels” session held as part with next month’s PauseFest digital technology festival in Melbourne. Representatives from award-winning visual effects studio Rising Sun Pictures, visual effects software developer The Foundry and artists talent agency Tyroe will screen reels submitted by student artists and offer live feedback on creativity, technique and professional merit.

Student artists wishing to participate in the event may submit reels of no more than 90 seconds into any of four categories: Compositing, Modeling, Lighting and Texturing. Student must use at least one product from The Foundry in each entry, and can submit entries via www.tyroe.com/register . A panel of judges will review the submissions and select a short list of reels for the live, free critique event at PauseFest. The live critique will be conducted by Rising Sun Pictures’ Marcus Wells and Kirsty Parkin, Tyroe’s Alwyn Hunt and Andrew McDonald, and The Foundry’s Mariana Acuna and Nicki Morris. The best reel in each of the four categories will be awarded a software prize from The Foundry.

"The show reel is one of the most critical aspects to getting your foot in the visual effects door. For students, it is important to keep the reel constantly fresh and updated with the latest and greatest." says Wells. "VFX recruiters are exposed to thousands of reels each year and become quickly attuned to what does and does not work. This session will provide a unique opportunity for up-and-coming vfx artists to get direct feedback on the presentation of their work. Ultimately we want to engage and develop local talent so they can get involved in this incredible industry.”

The event is free both for submitters and attendees (registration required). 

What:  PauseFest “Battle of the Reels” sponsored by Rising Sun Pictures, The Foundry and Tyroe.

Where:  The Cube, Australian Centre for the Moving Image, Melbourne

When: Wednesday, February 10th, 3:00 p.m.

Submissions: www.tyroe.com/register 

About Rising Sun Pictures
Rising Sun Pictures are a passionate team of producers, artists and technicians, known globally for delivering complex visual effects on high profile feature film and television projects. Our clients are inspired by the creative and technical solutions we deliver, and our team is integral in providing a truly collaborative experience. In 2013 RSP established a training and education division. The initiative aims to fine tune the skills of VFX graduates, so they’re fully prepared to take their first career step.  For more information on RSP head to http://www.rsp.com.au. To discover how you can learn with RSP Education, check out www.rsp.com.au/education.