Top Special Effects Make-Up Artists to Look Out For

It’s no secret that the film industry is rapidly evolving, particularly in the special effects sector. Perhaps, you’re a fan of Harry Potter, Avatar, or even Lord of the Rings? These are examples of some of the best-selling films that use special effects!  

At the University of Bolton, you can learn the skills that these make-up artists use by customising your own master’s degree! Our MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) course. Is ideal for those who are either a graduate with a creative or film-related degree or those who have prior experience in the industry and want to learn more about the craft of special effects make-up. You can adapt your studies, increase your knowledge, and take control of your future career by combining intensive study in one or two of your chosen modules.  
 
In this blog, we will explore some of the top special effects make-up artists that you may not already be aware of, but who are at the top of their game in the industry. But first, let’s see how an MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) degree at the University of Bolton can help you follow in their footsteps.  

Course Highlights 

Our MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) degree will allow you to deepen your knowledge and further your understanding of special effects make-up techniques. You’ll also gain transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork that graduates can apply to many other professions. Let’s look at some of the other highlights you can expect to see throughout your studies:  
 
- The course is flexible to graduates or professionals who work in a range of areas, including creative subjects such as art and design, and film FX 
- A structured learning framework that provides an in-depth introduction to all aspects of SFX make-up artistry 
- Our experienced lecturers have strong industry links, offering opportunities for networking, masterclasses, and joint projects  
- Access to the state-of-the-art facilities within our Centre for Film FX  
- Your degree title will reflect your specialist areas of study; if you’ve chosen areas with equal weighting, then the title will reflect both of your specialist areas. E.g., MA Professional Practice Special Effects Make-Up with Media and Photography  
 
Now, let’s look at some great make-up artists who are enjoying a successful career: 
 
1. Rick Baker 
 
Winner of seven Oscars, Baker created many classic looks, including the terrifying Xenomorph in Alien (1979) and the titular creature from An American Werewolf in London (1981).  
 
2. Stan Winston 
 
Winston achieved great success in the world of special effects make-up. He won four Oscars for his work on films like Jurassic Park (1993), Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) and Aliens (1986).  
 
3. Ve Neill 
 
Neill won three Oscars for her work on Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands, and Mrs Doubtfire. MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) graduates can learn from Neill’s creativity and imagination – she created a variety of unique SFX looks that have become iconic in the industry. 
 
4. Adrien Morot 
 
Adrien Morot won an Emmy for his work on Game of Thrones. His intricate SFX designs make him one of the most talented special effects make-up artists in Hollywood – he also worked on films such as The Hunger Games (2012) and Silence of the Lambs (1991).  
 
5. Eryn Krueger Mekash 
 
 
Eryn has achieved great success in special effects make-up, winning an Emmy for her work on TV series, American Horror Story. MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) graduates can learn from Eryn’s attention to detail and how she creates visually stunning designs using various unique techniques. 
 
6. Joe Blasco 
 
Blasco is best known for his work on classic films such as The Terminator (1984), Blade Runner (1982) and Alien (1979). MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) graduates can learn from Blasco’s use of prosthetics, make-up and animatronics and how he was able to create iconic SFX designs. 
 
7. Tom Savini 
 
Savini has achieved great success in the world of special effects makeup. He first came to notoriety with his work on George A. Romero’s Night Of The Living Dead (1968).

8. Bill Corso  

Corso won an Oscar for his work on Star Wars. His expertise in make-up, animatronics and prosthetics, and his ability to create unique SFX designs has built his industry reputation. 
 
These special effects make-up artists show that dedication to the art can help you reach your full potential. Graders can get ahead in this ever-evolving industry by being dedicated to MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism). 

Why study at Bolton University? 
 
Bolton has designed the MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) degree to provide you with the tools needed to become a successful special effects make-up artist. The course will teach you how to create visually stunning special effects make-up designs, build on your understanding of the history, theory and practice of the craft, and enhance the technical proficiency required for complex transformations. 
 
If an MA/MSc Professional Practice (Specialism) sounds like the right choice to help you become a specialist, take a look at our full course details to find out how to apply. 
  
For more information, please contact our team at enquiries@bolton.ac.uk or call on 01204 903807.