Access:VFX an industry-led non-profit coalition of leading visual effects, animation and games studios, has launched its European chapter. With the help of new sponsorship from Netflix, the organization is building upon its mission to promote diversity within the VFX industry by expanding into Europe. The aim of the new chapter is to provide practical tools for up-and-coming creators across Europe that are essential to succeed in the industry, including mock interviews, reel reviews, virtual events, and e-mentorships.
The new chapter will be led by Glassworks’ chief operating officer, Chris Kiser and supported by people and culture coordinator, Bianca Crichigno. The European VFX studio has offices in London, Amsterdam and Barcelona making Kiser and Crichigno the perfect leaders of the chapter to engage with creatives across Continental Europe.
The European chapter’s first steps will be to promote initiatives such as its e-mentoring scheme (sponsored by long-time supporter The Foundry and new sponsor Netflix), industry apprenticeships and awareness-building events. The team will also partner with local schools and organizations throughout Europe. The growing chapter hopes to extend its outreach to not only students within Europe, but those already working in the industry or re-entering after having had a break from the workplace.
“I’m delighted and honored to be leading the Access:VFX initiative in Europe and look forward to making our presence known throughout the region,” said Kiser. “The VFX, animation and games industries can be difficult to break into and we want to change that. Our goal is to introduce a new generation to the kinds of opportunities available within the VFX industry in order to further diversify and expand the pool of talent across all disciplines.”
“We’re ecstatic to finally have a presence dedicated to mainland Europe and couldn’t have done it without the unwavering commitment from Chris Kiser at Glassworks, and the generous sponsorship from Caroline and the team at Netflix,” said Simon Devereux, director and founder at Access:VFX. “Their support and collaboration will be fundamental in growing our global e-mentorship scheme in Europe and helping connect aspiring creatives with new opportunities, advice and support.”
Caroline Garrett, director of VFX in EMEA at Netflix says, “This is an exciting new chapter for AccessVFX that will provide an incredible opportunity to the many talented artists across Europe. Supporting and developing our industry is of paramount importance and we are proud to help Access VFX expand their efforts.”
Access:VFX www.accessvfx.org