Andrew Dyer

How would you describe the DNEG Greenlight program in three words?

Stressful, Informative, Rewarding.

What courses did you study and how do you think that contributed to your success?

Before Greenlight I studied at Think Tank Training Centre, where I was able to specialize in the areas I wanted to focus in, such as modeling and texturing. Those skills I gained from Think Tank allowed me to smoothly translate into the pipeline at DNEG. The Greenlight program I partook in was the Build department. It taught me how to translate my prior knowledge of modeling, texturing, and lookdev into a pipeline with other artists.

Can you tell us about the project you worked on during your Greenlight program and what you’ve learned from it?

During Greenlight I was tasked with creating a weapon asset for Dune, which I had to model and texture using set data, and then set up the lookdev to be 1 to 1 with the on-set prop. After this was completed I got to work on my first film project!

What did you enjoy most about the work you were tasked with during Greenlight?

I enjoyed the collaborative feeling that came with creating the Dune weapon asset. Even though I was doing the work everyone around me would be giving pointers and feedback about how to make it better.

What was the most difficult challenge you faced in the program and how did you tackle it?

For sure the most difficult part about Greenlight was the time management. Learning to say ‘this is good enough’ was a very hard mindset to get in, but there is not enough time to make everything perfect.

How did your Greenlight trainers and mentors support your learning and growth?

The trainers and mentors during Greenlight were the best. I never felt a lack of support, and everyone was willing to give honest quality feedback. They were always role models in how to conduct yourself in the workplace and create amazing art.

Why would you recommend the Greenlight Program?

I would recommend the Greenlight program because it gives students an accelerated entry point into high level VFX. You gain quality connections and are able to work in a pipeline setting from day one.

What would be your advice to future Greenlighters?

My advice to future Greenlighters would be to not stress (too much) about making mistakes and not understanding concepts. Also do not stay at work 3 hours after you are done!!

What are your future ambitions for your VFX career?

My future ambitions in VFX right now is to continue working and building my artistic skills. Working towards becoming a senior artist in the long term of my career is what I am aiming for.