Visual effects artist, Andy Hayes, is returning to Framestore’s film division as head of effects after four years in Los Angeles with DreamWorks.
Hayes’ remit will entail working closely alongside Framestore’s film producers to ensure all effects are delivered to the highest possible standard and teams remain cohesive while working across different projects. He will also be responsible for ensuring the department has clear direction and goals.
“Andy is a very talented VFX artist and was instrumental in helping us win the 2008 Oscar and BAFTA for best visual effects,” Framestore’s Fiona Walkinshaw, director of VFX production, said. “He joins us at a time when Framestore is getting involved in even more big budget, VFX-heavy films. So, to further improve efficiency and competitiveness, we’re implementing new pipelines and technology. Andy will be a key figure in ensuring the new infrastructure runs smoothly.”
“I can’t wait to reinstate my place in the Framestore family,” Andy Hayes said. “Not only is the atmosphere hardworking, but relaxed and amiable, the company is doing some really fascinating work. Films like Gravity are taking VFX to the next level, presenting ever more interesting challenges I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
While working for DreamWorks, Hayes climbed the ladder from FX animator to lead developer and sequence lead working across notable VFX-heavy feature films like Rise of the Guardians, The Croods, How to Train Your Dragon, Shrek: Forever After and Monsters Vs Aliens. His role at DreamWorks also included technology representative: facilitating next-generation technology design, features, functionality and implementation for a department of over 100 artists.
Prior to his time at DreamWorks, Hayes was at Framestore working as lead effects technical director on The Golden Compass, a film that went on to win the Oscar and BAFTA for best visual effects. Previous credits include George Miller’s Happy Feet while at Animal Logic in Australia and Terry Gilliam’s The Brothers Grimm for London’s Peerless Camera Company. Before working as a VFX artist, Hayes was a senior lecturer in computer animation and MSc program leader at Bournemouth University between 2001 and 2005.
