Interview with Gillian Simpson, Music Composer
Meet Gillian Simpson: London-Based VFX Compositor Shines on Hit Series "House of the Dragon"
In the dynamic world of visual effects, one name stands out – Gillian Simpson. Born in Scotland and based in London, Simpson has made a name for herself as a talented VFX compositor, working on some of the most highly-anticipated films and TV shows of recent years.
Simpson's impressive portfolio includes credits on films such as Isle of Dogs, The French Dispatch, Dumbo, Venom, The King's Man, and the latest instalment of the Spider-Man franchise, Spider-Man: No Way Home. On the small screen, she has contributed to popular shows like The West Wing and Ted Lasso.
One project that Simpson is particularly proud of is HBO's House of the Dragon. The series, a prequel to Game of Thrones, required intricate VFX work to bring its sprawling medieval landscapes and fantastical creatures to life. For 16 months, Simpson worked tirelessly on the show, using Mocha Pro extensively for set extensions, face replacements, and clean-up.
Mocha Pro, a widely-used planar tracking and visual effects software, is a tool that Simpson relies on heavily. Its PowerMesh tracking feature is particularly useful for creating organic effects like skin or cloth.
Simpson's journey in the VFX industry has been a rewarding one, aided by a mentor who has encouraged and supported her throughout her career. She graduated from the National Film and Television School with an MA in Digital Effects, and her hard work and dedication have paid off in the form of her work on House of the Dragon.
When not immersed in the world of VFX, Simpson finds artistic inspiration from visiting galleries, particularly the Tate. The atmospheric qualities of Turner's paintings resonate with her. To unwind and prevent creative burnout, she relaxes by drawing, painting, attending pottery classes, and watching films.
Looking ahead, Simpson is excited about the future and the opportunities it brings. She dreams of collaborating with artists like Gareth Edwards, who she admires for his work on Monsters and Godzilla. As for advice to her younger self, Simpson would encourage herself to be more confident.
Whether it's dark chocolate or coffee and sweet snacks, Simpson knows how to fuel herself during busy work sessions. As she prepares for her next project, she ensures her tools are up-to-date and starts with a fresh notebook, ready to create more magical VFX moments.
Gillian Simpson utilizes cutting-edge technology, such as Mocha Pro, to elevate her work in the ever-evolving field of visual effects, contributing greatly to her impressive lifestyle. Having worked on popular series like "House of the Dragon," Simpson's lifestyle seamlessly integrates with the latest advancements in technology to produce stunning visual effects.
