Ever been amazed by vampires, ghosts and monsters in the movies by wondered how they are brought to life? Hollywood pioneer SPFX Character Creator and Monster Maker Steve Johnson, Emmy-Award winning creature designer on TV mini series, The Shining and The Stand, is now offering a unique opportunity to share his techniques, methods and creative thinking behind his work across four live online workshops every Saturday across the whole of February, with each session lasting two and a half hours.
These masterclasses are held on zoom and are open to a limited number of students. or anyone who is interested in developing a career in VFX design or anyone who may be wanting to learn the traditional technique of practical effects before digital / AI technology from a master craftsman who has helped define some of Hollywood’s most memorable creatures. Steve is also the subject of Nick Taylor’s new documentary, Rubberhead: The Life & Monsters of Steve Johnson, that screened at Tubi FrightFest in August.
Background to Steve Johnson and pre-digital effects industry Before CGI. Before AI. When rubber ruled, there was a time when movie magic was created by hand. Every creature, monster and character began as an idea, a lump of clay and the imagination of a talented artist. Today, many of those traditional skills are disappearing. However, for those who love practical effects, creature design and the craft behind the movies, there is still an opportunity to learn directly from one of the artists who helped shape an era.
For over four decades, Steve has been designing, sculpting and creating some of cinema’s most iconic creatures and characters for Ghostbusters, The Abyss, Big Trouble in Little China, Species, Fright Night, Men in Black, Blade II, Spider-Man 2, Bicentennial Man and An American Werewolf in London.
Talking about the workshops, he says. “Students can expect to walk away with professional sculptural techniques used throughout the film industry, theme parks, advertising, gaming, the collectible industry, and immersive entertainment. Upon completion, I’m hoping students will be empowered to create their own creatures and characters.”
Creature workshops: what’s on offer
Using one of his most iconic creations as a live demonstration, Steve attends to students in real time through the creative process step-by-step. His workshop address areas such as:
– Creature Design
– Sculpting and Form
– Expression and Personality
He now aims to share techniques, stories and insights he has developed throughout a remarkable career spanning more than four decades with a new generation of artists, collectors, creators and movie fans.
The Masterclass is suitable for all abilities whether you are a beginner exploring a new hobby or a more experienced creator.
The cost for enrolling on the whole Masterclass is £675 ($895) for first 10 early bird registration, then £745 ($995). The event runs in conjunction with Bueno Productions.
Download the free 36-page brochure and register your interest.
