Kay’s Story – from Ontario to Brighton and into the world of SFX makeup

This week we’re spotlighting the incredible journeys of our BA (Hons) Hair and Makeup for Screen and Film students – starting with student Kay Gibson, whose passion for prosthetics has taken them from Ontario, Canada to the creative hub of Brighton.

Discovering a path in special effects

For Kay, art has always been the engine behind their ambitions. Growing up in Ontario, they explored as many creative avenues as they could, but weren’t convinced that a Fine Arts degree was the right direction.

Everything changed during a movie night with their brother, watching the behind-the-scenes features of The Lord of the Rings. Seeing the craftsmanship behind the prosthetics and wigs sparked a new idea and set Kay on the path toward special effects makeup.

Now in their third year at MetFilm School Brighton, Kay is building the practical skills and professional confidence to make a career out of sculpting, moulding, casting, and designing for screen projects.

From the great lakes to the Brighton seafront

Kay’s hometown in Ontario sits beside one of the Great Lakes, a scenic environment not unlike Brighton’s coastline. But while the views might feel familiar, Brighton’s vibrancy, pace, and connectivity are a whole new world.

The move also offered a community that immediately felt welcoming:

“I chose Brighton because of its reputation as a queer-friendly city. I knew I’d find people who understood me.”

Kay has found that connection not just in the city, but in their housemates and classmates, many of whom share neurodivergent experiences. This sense of belonging has made the leap across the Atlantic even more meaningful.

Supported every step of the way

One of the standout elements of Kay’s experience has been the hands-on support from staff and lecturers. Whether it’s accessing equipment, finding extra workspace, or sorting practical needs like ventilation for airbrushing, support is only ever an email away.

Lecturers also help students build industry connections and gain real set experience. When Kay had to turn down a short film opportunity, their lecturer Jorge helped pass it on to Level 4 students – ensuring the industry stays connected and opportunities never go to waste.

Falling in love with the craft

While Kay initially imagined themselves focusing on makeup application, the course has opened their eyes to the world of building prosthetics from scratch – something they now love even more.
Seeing their creations evolve from sculpting to silicone application is, in Kay’s words, one of the most satisfying parts of their education.

Kay also cites legendary SFX artist Rob Bottin, known for The Thing, as a major inspiration, with his work even playing a role in Kay’s university application.

Looking ahead, Kay sees themselves working in a workshop-based role, crafting pieces behind the scenes rather than being on set:

“I enjoy the quieter environment where I can focus on the artistry without on-set logistics.”

Balancing theory and practice

One of the surprises of the course has been the amount of written academic work. With a roughly 50/50 split between theory and practical, Kay has had to balance creative work with assignments and research.

Coming straight from high school with an art background and no formal makeup experience, Kay encourages future students not to let that hold them back:

“Even if you start with no makeup or hair experience, you’ll find your footing. The mix of passion and shared enthusiasm makes it easy to grow.”

Looking forward

With exciting projects already under their belt and a clear sense of direction, Kay is ready to take the next step in their career, supported by the experience, guidance, and community they’ve found at MetFilm School.

Their journey highlights something we see often in our students: the moment when artistic curiosity transforms into a real-world career path.

Feeling inspired by Kay’s story? Ready to start your own journey?

Come tour our industry-standard makeup and prosthetics studios in Brighton at an upcoming Open Day and discover where your future could begin.

For courses starting in September 2026, the UCAS deadline is Wednesday 14 January 2026. Make sure your BA application is submitted by this date to ensure it is considered.