Spectrum Films has partnered with Bus Stop Film to create Lumina, Australia’s first Neuro-Inclusive VFX initiative, providing comprehensive training to six successful applicants identifying as autism.
The program, conceived by the head of VFX Adam Archer at Spectrum Films, aims to create accessible routes to the industry and leverage the established support processes and networks of Bus Stop Films.
The Netflix-backed pilot is currently in development and will run for 12 months starting in October. Technology partners Dell Technologies, Boris FX and Xenon offer additional support.
Archer said Spectrum is extremely passionate about establishing pathways for underrepresented individuals in the industry.
“We believe that individuals with autism can be superior in the visual effects industry, and we are developing programs that provide the tools to empower them to do just that,” he said.
Lumina is fully online and uses the Boris FX suite to provide successful rotoscope and matchmaube tutor lead training to applicants. The purpose of this program is to develop a wide range of basic knowledge about visual effects and to develop the core skills needed to be adopted in the VFX industry.
This initiative is designed in collaboration with the autism community to ensure that the program is accessible and effective.
“We are very excited about the program and what it means for the Australian autism community,” said Dianna La Grassa, COO and Head of Screens at Bus Stop Films.
“Bus Stop Film was founded in 2009 for this purpose, creating comprehensive career opportunities within the film and television industry, recognizing the valuable contributions of nervous individuals and underrepresented communities.
Michaal Monk of Netflix Post Production Anz said the company is proud to work together with Spectrum and bus stop films to make the program come true, and hopes to raise the bar for authentic storytelling.
“By including as many different perspectives and living experiences as possible, we represent our stories more universally and in the world around us. Lumina is addressing the real gaps in our industry,” he said.
For more information or to apply, please visit spectrumfilms.com.au/lumina or busstopfilms.com.au/lumina-vfx-program. The application will close on September 1st.
