Technical Evaluation

Throughout this term I feel that I have learnt a lot as I have never previously done anything related to special effects a part from the small things we learnt last year such as cuts and using wax to create wounds. I think that the process of mould making and casting from moulds will make me a better makeup artist as I feel that not everyone has the chance to broaden their skills in special effects and it will help with my career in the future.

From the beginning we were thrown in straight to creating a wound. From this project we learnt how to sculpt with clay/plasticine and the importance of a smooth sculpture. We learnt how to prepare a sculpture for producing a flat mould, using fixing spray and petrolese. We then learnt how to make a negative silicone mould to allow us to cast our prosthetic pieces from using a mixture of silicone and deadener.

Throughout the production process of our prosthetic pieces, there are specific health and hygiene techniques that should be followed. We learnt that the silicones can not be contaminated as this will stop them reacting correctly. We also learnt that silicone is a very sensitive product as it reacts badly to aloe vera, garlic and latex. Silicone is a very delicate substance in the fact that it reacts to different things, it cannot be contaminated and if it gets on clothing it cannot be removed. It is also important to never pour silicone down the drain as it will clog it. Overall, we have been thoroughly taught the health and hygiene techniques when working with silicone and the likes of petrolese, fixing spray and alcohol.

When completing the process of making my prothetic pieces I found myself really referring to my notes. When I struggled with the edges of my first attempt at my hybrid I went on a website (learnmakeupseffects.com) to help my understanding of why the edges weren't perfect. This really helped but I can admit that struggled with colouring my pieces with the alcohol palette.
Overall, I am happy with the amount we learnt in a short time and I am glad I have the skills to produce a silicone piece. I am happy with the technical work that I completed in class and I feel that I have broaden my skills in terms of a makeup artist.