Organisation promotes diversity in the VFX industry

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Access:VFX has launched a European chapter with the help of sponsorship from Netflix.

The organisation, which promotes diversity within the VFX industry, aims to provide practical tools for up-and-coming creators across Europe, including mock interviews, reel reviews, virtual events and e-mentorships. 

The new chapter will be led by Glassworks’ chief operating officer, Chris Kiser and supported by its people and culture coordinator, Bianca Crichigno. The European VFX studio has experience on the continent, with offices in London, Amsterdam and Barcelona.

The European chapter joins Access:VFX groups in the UK and North America, including Montreal, New York, Chicago and the West Coast

Access: VFX’s first steps in Europe will be promoting its e-mentoring scheme (sponsored by long-time supporter The Foundry and new sponsor Netflix), industry apprenticeships and awareness-building events. It will also partner with local schools and organisations throughout Europe, as well as looking to work with those already in the industry or re-entering after having had a break from the workplace.

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Kiser, who studios interested in joining the scheme can contact, said: “I’m delighted and honoured to be leading the Access:VFX initiative in Europe and look forward to making our presence known throughout the region.

“The VFX, animation and games industries can be difficult to break into and we want to change that. Our goal is to introduce a new generation to the kinds of opportunities available within the VFX industry in order to further diversify and expand the pool of talent across all disciplines.”

Access:VFX founder and director Simon Devereux added: “We’re ecstatic to finally have a presence dedicated to mainland Europe and couldn’t have done it without the unwavering commitment from Chris Kiser at Glassworks, and the generous sponsorship from Caroline and the team at Netflix.

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“Their support and collaboration will be fundamental in growing our global e-mentorship scheme in Europe and helping connect aspiring creatives with new opportunities, advice and support.”

Caroline Garrett, director of VFX (EMEA) at Netflix, said: “This is an exciting new chapter for Access:VFX that will provide an incredible opportunity to the many talented artists across Europe. Supporting and developing our industry is of paramount importance and we are proud to help Access VFX expand their efforts.”

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