Offering the opportunity to learn about the state of the film industry today from a pioneer in computer animation, Utah Tech University is hosting a special lecture by special effects artist, animator and director Steve “Spaz” Williams.
Williams will share about his 30 years of experience in the industry as well as the impact that computer graphics will have on the future of film at 3 p.m. on Dec. 3 in the Eccles Fine Arts Center Mainstage Theatre on the Utah Tech University campus. This event is free and open to the public.
“I’ve known who Spaz is and admired his work since I was 12 years old. His work on ‘Jurassic Park’ is frequently cited as the gold standard of CGI, despite the fact that it was created 33 years ago,” Alex Chamberlain, a professor of art at Utah Tech, said. “The fact that Steve’s work still holds up today is a testament to both his skill and his methods. The opportunity to learn from a disruptor of his caliber is a rare privilege. He is literally responsible for inspiring my own career path.”
In addition to “Jurassic Park,” Williams has worked on other blockbuster films including “Star Wars,” “Terminator 2,” “The Mask” and “Forrest Gump.” His work with effects studio Industrial Light & Magic has earned them several academy awards for best visual effects. Highlighting his impact on the industry, Williams is the subject of the 2022 documentary “Jurassic Punk.”
Hosted by Utah Tech’s Art Department, the lecture is being held to provide industry insight into careers in art, animation, film, visual effects, computer science and engineering in line with Utah Tech’s “active learning. active life.” approach to education. Through this approach, UT prepares students to graduate career ready by participating in active learning experiences and extracurricular opportunities like lectures from industry experts.
Additionally, UT’s Art Department helps students refine their artistic interests into lifelong passions. The department offers bachelor’s degrees in studio art, art education and art with emphases in 3-D sculpture/ceramics; entertainment, arts and animation; painting/drawing/illustration; photography/digital imaging; as well as a Master of Fine Arts in studio art. To learn more, visit art.utahtech.edu.