RIA benard

I studied 3D Animation and was the previous Co-Owner, Administrator, and part-time Animation Instructor of a digital animation school for 4 years. This included curriculum design, development, and delivery for multiple classes including Motion Studies, Acting for Animators, Animation Basics, and Introduction to Cameras and Lighting in 3D.

My responsibilities also included developing administration systems, procedures, and reporting to the Ministry of Education and Student Aid.

My past film and theatre experience includes various positions ranging from Director, Camera Assistant, 1st and 2nd AD, Set Decoration, Special Effects Make-Up and Prosthetic Artist.

My combined years of experience in the film industry, the education field, and administration have fully equipped me for all of the demands of running a visual effects school.

I began my career in the film industry and made the gradual transition into 3D Animation. Before working at Lost Boys, I gained several years of experience in an educational environment by running a 3D Animation school, which focused on training for the animation and gaming industry.

At Lost Boys I have multiple professional roles:

Owner / Director – Oversees the school operations.
Senior Educational Administrator – Oversees the program delivery, and curriculum development and reporting to the ministry.
Student Services Administrator – Attends to students’ needs, which may include everything from selecting admissions to assistance with job placement.
Production Designer / SFX Artist – When shooting original live action footage for the students, I helps bring the concepts to life through set decoration, prop creation, costume design, and special effects makeup (one of my specialties). I often collaborate with shot design: from early development to final direction.

I spend a great deal of time developing the school and designing projects to ensure that Lost Boys is continuously providing the best and most relevant VFX education possible.