In this report I will be critically reflecting upon my undergraduate studies and experiences that have led up to my graduation. This essay will cover work experiences, my formal interview process, technical advancements in skills and independent learning experiences. All of this is in reference to my professional identity and the development to me being prepared for industry. I will be focusing primarily on my level 6 studies, as they are my most recent and reflect the majority of my professional development. This is because level 6 relies so heavily on independent study which entrusts a more self-motivated and reflective individual. The essay will centre around my interview, as that was the crux of this unit. Within this I can analyse my professional ability to present myself and my work, as well as my promotional materials and methods. I will then proceed to analyse specific work experiences and their influence on my professional outlook. Following this, I will discuss how my professional identity has developed within level 6 regarding time planning and collaborations within projects. Lastly I will focus on my technical development and maturity of skills before my conclusion. 

The promotional materials I prepared for my interview were; a professional website (including showreel), a physical portfolio, business cards and CV. I also decided to demonstrate a practical example of my work for two reasons. Firstly because I think it is more interesting and interactive than simply having images of your work. Secondly, I did not think many other people would plan on doing this, and therefore it would make me stand out for the right reasons. It also gave me the opportunity to open conversation with the panel and break the ice by making a joke, which started the tone of the interview well and granted me the feedback of being “good humoured”. I consider this an important trait, particularly for a workshop or on-set environment given the demanding hours of the industry, and I try and embody it when possible.  

I shook the panel’s hands to give a professional approach and to break barriers. I opened with my showreel, during which questions were asked about particular makeups which I feel I answered confidently and thoroughly. One question in particular referred to the editing of some images, during which I explained that due to the heavy visual editing, I didn’t feel it appropriate to include a separate image of that makeup. However, as another image just included touch-ups I didn’t feel that the final image was too derivative from my work.  Amber commented that that was good and that knowing where to draw that line was important. 

I went on to talk my way through my work from concepts to technicalities, during which I continued to answer questions. This went well, as in my feedback it was noted that I came across as passionate and enthusiastic.  Nick also commented that one of my paint jobs was effective, which was great for me to hear, as finishing and painting is my specialism within prosthetics. The panel also noted that my website was professional and easy to navigate with clear images. Amber commented that the blue theme was a good idea, as I had introduced myself as ‘Claire with the blue hair’, mainly to help break the ice, but it created a coherent theme within my presentation. Amber wrote in my feedback that this created a memorable impression which I was happily surprised by, as having seen so many people, standing out is an important skill to have for industry.  

My interview finished with one minute left where I was asked if I had any questions for the panel, in which I asked a relevant question relating to industry and my specific pathway and passion, which is finishing techniques. My feedback was very positive overall and I don’t think I would have done anything differently, as I tried to come across as genuine, enthusiastic and professional. Nick Dudman said I would make a good workshop trainee which is what I wanted to achieve. 

I have participated in two key work experiences outside of university within the last year. 

The first was in the summer of last year with The Twins FX for two weeks in a workshop. This was an educational experience and involved quite a lot of labour intensive work, as the company produces large-scale theatre pieces rather than facial prosthetics. I wouldn’t want to do such heavy-duty work on a regular basis, but I do enjoy the workshop environment as it’s far more relaxed and regulated and less pressurised than being on set. My other work experience was a fashion shoot in London with Amber Sibley. Although I do not plan on pursuing fashion, it is something I may keep as a side project for when prosthetic employment is scarce. Amber is an excellent contact to have as she has also excelled in the prosthetic industry, and one never knows what can come from an opportunity. Although I did not apply any makeups, I tried to always be ready and aware if Amber needed anything which I managed well. I also helped tidy away as much as possible and remove the model’s makeup when I could. I learnt to stay out of the model’s eye-line, as that can be a distraction, moreover how pernickety the photographer can be. It exposed the relationship between makeup artist and photographer clearly, which Amber explained to me in some detail. I would consider this a valuable experience, as I was able to ask Amber lots of questions and get a realistic experience of a fashion shoot. I know I still want to pursue prosthetics, but I would not be opposed to taking fashion jobs where possible, as it would be a refreshing change of pace. Moreover, Amber noted in my interview feedback that she liked my fashion work which gives me the confidence to pursue that where possible.  

The transition from level five to six marked the graduation into self-motivated and independent learning. As an organised person, I found making a thorough time plan helpful in dividing up my units according to the recommended amount of time we spend on each project. This has saved me from a lot of stress during units and meant my work has been on track without falling behind. I also learnt to bring up my mark through practical experimentation, which really produced a better makeup and expanded my practical skill knowledge. I have participated in more extensive collaboration for my level six units, particularly for final major project. This has meant that I have needed to meet with individuals, hold meetings and also email several staff members to try and find specific team members. I have also had to overcome issues with collaborating on grad films with other makeup artists when their work has been sub-standard. This has improved my communicative collaboration skills, as work has to be done to a professional standard.  

Level six has also seen a massive advance in my practical skills. I have participated in four graduate films alongside my final major which allowed me to advance in a variety of skills other than prosthetics. I used to be timid about large-scale prosthetics and complex mould making, which are both areas I have undertaken in my final major. Making something so large scale has also expanded my sculpting skill set and mould-making in terms of cores and matrix moulding. I have also now used foam latex and experimented with different painting materials and methods which shows a varied skill set, making me more employable. For this unit I have also had to consider practical limitations, such as the model’s vision constraints and working with green screen. In contrast, my Specialist Practise unit focused on subtle silicone pieces and finishing techniques such as hair-punching. I am glad to have this variety of skills, as Nick Dudman commented that one of my strengths was my wide range of work in my portfolio. 

In conclusion, my interview was a confirmation that my personable skills are industry ready and that my work is reaching a professional standard. My interview was a huge confidence boost for me and a confirmation that my hard work has been worthwhile. Level six has seen the most significant progression in both my technical skills but also my professional and communicative skills. Moreover I have been following my goals set in my PDP and am getting a car in a few months which will help me with transportation for jobs. I shall email businesses and individuals before I go travelling and follow them up when I get back. I am thankful that I took the time to participate in so many extra projects as they have all taught me valuable lessons, brought me contacts and raised my confidence. Now that I have my promotional materials to a high standard and I am confident with the standard with my work, I feel able to contact industry companies with more self-assurance.