Also called: Prosthetics Artist, Creature Makeup Artist
Turns actors into monsters, aliens, zombies, and old people with prosthetics and makeup.
SFX artists sculpt silicone prosthetics, airbrush skin, apply fake wounds, and keep makeup looking right through 14-hour shoot days.
Based on BLS theatrical makeup artists; freelance.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Certificate, about 3 years after high school. Makeup effects school (e.g., Cinema Makeup School); portfolio; union membership for film.
Ways in: Trade school, Self-taught, On-the-job training. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Makeup Artistry (trade school), Fine Arts, Theater.
Growing faster than average (about 5% over 10 years).
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. Digital de-aging and AI effects take some film work, but prosthetics for stage, live events and practical-minded films stay hands-on.
Classes: Art/sculpture, Theater makeup, Chemistry, Biology/anatomy.
Official data: O*NET occupation 39-5091.
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