Ben Watson on Merging a Love for Film with Artistic Talents

My passion for filmmaking began in childhood, where I enjoyed creating stop-motion animations and watching countless films. Initially, I envisioned a career as a painter. Even in pre-school, I was recognised for my artistic talent and allowed to use scissors to create unique pieces of art, being dubbed an "expert" by my teachers.

Although my early aspirations leaned towards art and architecture, my college years saw me juggling both mathematics and art, with a side interest in film studies. The turning point came during my final art exam when I learned that the final form of my piece could be a short film. This revelation allowed me to merge my love for film with my artistic talents, steering me toward a career in filmmaking. Convincing my parents to support this unconventional career path was challenging, but I eventually succeeded.

During my university years, I delved deeper into the world of film with the ambition of becoming a director. The collaborative nature of filmmaking initially pushed me toward post-production. Reluctant to entrust my classmates with the editing, I took on the role of editor for my projects. This experience allowed me to master post-production skills, including editing, motion graphics, and visual effects.

Transitioning from academia to the industry led me to Creep, where I've witnessed and contributed to the company's growth over the past two and a half years. My skills have flourished through diverse projects in television, films, and commercials. My hands-on approach has been crucial in developing my expertise and work ethic.

As an art director specialising in post-production, my role is multifaceted. I oversee the aesthetics of each project from concept to execution, ensuring they are cohesive, versatile, and visually appealing. While the concept of an art director in post-production is still emerging, its relevance is increasingly apparent as technology and the industry evolve. Navigating the ever-changing landscape of post-production can be challenging, but I embrace it with a sense of anticipation.