What's Your Favorite Stan Winston School Course?

Chris EllerbyChris Ellerby Admin
in General

With so many great courses here at the Stan Winston School of Character Arts, we've all had that one course that really clicked, the one that inspired you, leveled up your skills, or sent you straight into the shop to start building.

We'd love to hear about your favorite course!

Tell us:

  • Which specific course is your favorite

  • What you enjoyed most about it (the techniques, the instructor, the project, the "aha!" moment)

  • How it influenced your work or creative process

And if you have photos of something you made that was inspired by that course, please share them! Seeing how people apply what they've learned is one of the best parts of this community.

Whether you're a longtime member or just getting started, jump in and let us know which course left the biggest impression on you.

Looking forward to seeing what everyone shares!

/Chris

Comments

  • SynysterAceSynysterAce ✭
    Fairly new to all this but so far both Eye Making courses have been amazing. Just looking to find more on making my own plates for the eyes since John Cherevka engineered his old for casting. 
  • Darrell GreenDarrell Green ✭✭✭
    edited January 23
    You know you are poking the bear on even asking this question. So many courses have helped me in my cosplay and disguise hobby that it would be impossible to say, "oh this one for sure". But in the joy of bragging on someone, I will say my favorite ..... ugh, hurts to even pick..... is (currently):

    Age Makeup - Light to Moderate Aging

    Barney Burman


    I love the challenge of doing a cosplay not just as the character but as the actor who played the character. I get so many cool tips and techniques, for finishing these disguises, from numerous lessons and teachers on Stan Winston, from props and costume to make-up effects and camera/lighting. But Barney covers so much more in this lesson than what the lesson is even about and I use those extra tips in my disguises nearly every time. 

    Honestly, I just realized that some of my biggest lessons have come from asking questions right here in the forums. So, although it doesn't fit the topic question, I will say that my favorite Not-a-lesson.... lesson is asking Chris Ellerby. The full force of talent, backing Stan Winston School, is available via a request in these threads. When Matt says, "Let's ask the instructor" or when Chris says, "Have you tried...." , it is always the best 'Not-a-lesson'-lesson available anywhere.
    Post edited by Darrell Green on
  • Nicola PowerNicola Power ✭

    Among all the courses I have taken so far, the Monster Suit Performance class led by Tom Woodruff Jr. stands out as my favourite. My fascination with Monster Suit Performance stretches back many years, originating from my early experiences watching Peter Elliott, also known as the Primary Primate, during the 1980s. Those initial inspirations ignited a lasting interest in the artistry and discipline involved in suit acting. 

    Having the opportunity now to view a course taught by the legendary creature and suit performer Tom Woodruff Jr. has been both enlightening and inspiring. The course offered a comprehensive look at the immense physical and mental effort required to bring creature characters to life. I was reminded of my younger self, imagining what it would have been like to portray a xenomorph—even if just a very small one. 

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