Rishi is a VFX Technician at The Northern School of Art, where he supports students in developing their understanding and application of visual effects techniques. With a particular focus on FX simulation using Houdini, he helps students integrate dynamic effects such as smoke, fire, destruction and procedural systems into their creative projects.

Specialising in FX and Character FX (CFX), Rishi brings both academic training and industry experience to the role, offering students a practical, industry-informed perspective. He has worked on high-profile projects including the Netflix feature We Have a Ghost, Knights of the Zodiac and the Halo television series, collaborating with leading companies such as ReDefine (DNEG) and Technicolor. His collaborative approach also extends across departments within the School, working closely with areas such as modelmaking to demonstrate how digital VFX can enhance physical builds through compositing and digital extension.

Drawn to the balance of creativity and technical problem-solving within VFX, Rishi enjoys crafting simulations that feel believable and immersive and takes particular satisfaction in seeing digital effects bring a scene to life. He is especially enthusiastic about the growing cross-disciplinary opportunities within the School, where the integration of physical and digital effects can open up exciting new possibilities for students.

Some of Rishi’s favourite uses of VFX in film include the mind-bending simulations of Inception, the atmospheric world-building of Blade Runner 2049, and the expansive visual scope of The Avengers. More recently, he has admired the seamless blend of practical and digital effects in Dune, where simulations enhance the story and design without overshadowing them.