I am currently studying at York College but this is an insight into why I would like to further my education in this field. From a very young age I have been interested in film, television and theater. I love to see the process from start to finish and how a makeup artist can turn someone into a totally different character. Just a hair piece, scar, wound or a prosthetic can change the whole image. Films and Television shows such as Harry Potter and Dr Who have always interested me as the characters they create with the makeup and prosthetics allow me to escape into a world of imagination and creativity. It’s fair to say I get more enjoyment from that than the story lines. Another passion is horror films, they really spark my interest as I love to see the realism of the characters wounds and injuries. My absolute career goal would be to work on a horror film set. Two people who inspire me are Nick Dudman and Val Garland. Dudman I feel creates outstanding work and is a great role model for an aspiring special effects makeup artist. The goblins in Harry Potter are my personal favorites from his work. I love to read on line articles and see behind the scenes step by step photos of what he has created. Garland who works more in the commercial and fashion industry creates bold looks for editorial work and the catwalk. I find the work she has produced for magazines inspirational and in particular the cover of Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” album. The introduction my current course, Theatrical Special Effects, Hair and Media Make Up, has given me a real insight into all the different genres of makeup and special effects from a basic everyday makeup to a gunshot wound, burn or laceration. Looking at how the body is affected after certain traumas and trying to recreate that or changing the shape of someone’s face and adding or covering hair gives me great satisfaction. The many things i have learnt during this course has been invaluable. It has given me the appetite and drive to go on and learn more.