Interview with Compositor Gillian Simpson, Artist Examination
Gillian Simpson, a talented VFX compositor based in London, has made a name for herself in the competitive world of visual effects. Her work has been featured in various high-profile projects, including House of the Dragon, Silent Night, and Isle of Dogs.
Born in Scotland, Simpson's journey into the world of VFX began at the National Film and Television School (NFTS) where she graduated with an MA in Digital Effects. While her career path to London remains undocumented, it's clear that she has climbed the ranks to become a sought-after talent in the industry.
Simpson's mentor has played a significant role in her career and personal growth, providing guidance and support throughout her journey. This mentor-mentee relationship has been instrumental in shaping Simpson's career, and she continues to learn and grow with each new project.
When it comes to her work, Simpson is a meticulous professional. Before diving into a new project, she ensures her computer and software are up-to-date and starts with a fresh notebook. She relies on her trusty keyboard shortcut, Ctrl-Z, for undoing actions, and her workspace houses a secret stash of dark chocolate for those long, busy work periods.
Simpson's artistic influences are as diverse as her work. She admires the atmospheric paintings of J.M.W. Turner and finds inspiration in visiting galleries, particularly the Tate. In her downtime, she enjoys watching films, with Promising Young Woman, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and Spider-Man: No Way Home among her favourites.
Marvel fandom runs deep for Simpson, and she counts herself as a fan of the TV shows The West Wing and Ted Lasso. In the realm of VFX, she has worked on projects such as Isle of Dogs, The French Dispatch, Dumbo, Venom, The King's Man, and House of the Dragon.
One of her dream jobs, House of the Dragon, was particularly special for Simpson due to her fandom and the opportunity to work with a familiar team. On this project, she used Mocha Pro extensively for tracking, face replacements, and clean-up.
Reflecting on her career, Simpson advises her younger self to be more confident, a piece of advice that resonates with many aspiring professionals in the industry. Despite the challenges and long hours, Simpson's passion for VFX and her dedication to her craft continue to drive her success.
In her spare time, Gillian Simpson immerses herself in the realms of fashion-and-beauty and technology, admiring the latest trends in gadgets and smartphones. Whenever she desires a break from her sophisticated career, she indulges in watching her favorite TV shows like The West Wing and Ted Lasso.
Despite her success in the vibrant and ever-evolving lifestyle of VFX, Gillian Simpson's artistic inspirations extend beyond her profession, finding a profound connection with the atmospheric paintings of J.M.W. Turner and the mesmerizing works displayed at the Tate.
