From subtle character transformations to full-scale prosthetic creations, special effects makeup is where artistry, craftsmanship and storytelling collide. In this hands-on masterclass, acclaimed prosthetics artist David Trainor takes audiences behind the scenes of his work across film and television, revealing how makeup can transform performers, create believable worlds and bring a director’s vision to life.

Drawing on his extensive credits, including the feature films The Thicket, The Order and Buffet Infinity, as well as television productions such as Anna Pigeon, Under the Banner of Heaven and Joe Pickett, Trainor will explore the creative and practical challenges of working with prosthetics and SFX makeup on set.

[PANELIST] Award-winning makeup effects artist Dave Trainor has worked on the television projects HONEY, I SHRUNK THE KIDS, HELL ON WHEELS, and FARGO, as well as motion pictures such as PASSCHENDAELE, TUCKER AND DALE VS. EVIL, THE HITCHER II: I'VE BEEN WAITING, and THE ORDER.

[MODERATOR] Damian Petti has served on the General Executive Board of the 170,000-member entertainment union, IATSE since 2003. Damian has worked in the industry as a technical director, production stage manager, sound technician, lighting designer and motion picture grip. In 1998, Petti was elected president of Calgary-based Local 212, a position he currently holds today. Petti graduated from the Mount Royal University theatre program with a specialization in production and has continued his studies at the University of Calgary. Petti is currently a director of the IATSE Canada Health Plan Inc. and serves on the IATSE Disaster Response Committee team. In 2015, Petti became a vice president of the Alberta Federation of Labour, a position he retains today.