Rising Sun Pictures lights the pathway to a career in visual effects for South Australian students

This year marks a decade-long partnership between Rising Sun Pictures (RSP) and the University of South Australia (now Adelaide University), a collaboration that has played a key role in developing industry-ready visual effects (VFX) artists who are now contributing to some of Hollywood’s biggest productions.   

The collaboration began as a response to a clear gap in the talent pipeline. RSP was increasingly challenged by the shortage of junior artists with both the technical capabilities and professional readiness to thrive in a fast-paced studio environment.  

To bridge that gap, RSP partnered with the University to co-design and deliver accredited, specialised courses tailored to meet the evolving demands of the global VFX industry.  

Since its inception, the collaboration has launched over 250 careers with graduates securing roles not only at RSP, but across the local, national and international visual effects industry.

The inspiration to pursue a career in visual effects is different for everyone – each person’s journey is as unique as the spark that ignites it.   

For Tahlia Dzudzar, a third-year Bachelor of visual effects student at the University of Adelaide, her path looked very different at first.  

A teacher’s encouragement helped her pivot toward a future in VFX. "My animation teacher said that if I enjoyed it this much, I should turn it into a career—one that wouldn’t feel like work, but more like making cool stuff and having fun doing it.” 

Students today don’t have to wait until university to begin developing their skills – many industry-standard software programs are now freely available to students, and a growing number of secondary schools are offering foundation courses that lay the groundwork for a career in visual effects.   

For Bachelor of Visual Effects third-year student Lilith Sharp, that journey began early.

Through its long-standing collaboration with the University, RSP has helped evolve the program to now offer a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Effects along with a suite of specialised post-graduate courses including 3D Animation, Creature Effects, Compositing and Tracking, Dynamic Effects and Lighting. 

What sets these courses apart from other university programs is how closely they mirror the realities of studio life. Classes take place in spaces designed to emulate a professional studio environment and are taught by experienced artists currently working in the industry. This hands-on, industry-informed approach equips students with the technical proficiency and professional mindset required to succeed.   

“The environment we get to learn in is great and so helpful because it feels like you’re already a part of the industry,” says Dzudzar.  “It really helps you get in the right headspace to keep growing and learning VFX.” 

Sharp agrees, adding that being taught by industry professionals brings an extra layer of insight. “It’s invaluable to hear our instructor’s stories and how they made their way into the industry. Any questions or concerns can be answered on the spot, and you can have deeper conversations about our work and passions.”  

She adds “Being immersed in a mock studio environment has given me a much more realistic understanding of what I’ll be stepping into and what VFX companies are looking for. I don’t think a traditional classroom could have given me the same level of confidence or the range of skills I’ve developed through this course.” 

Networking opportunities are another standout feature of the course. Students regularly attend internal masterclasses and ‘Day In The Life Of’ (DITLO) sessions led by current RSP employees, offering real-world insight into the studio roles and career pathways.  

Dzudzar highlights the importance of these events “RSP provide a lot of networking opportunities, which are essential for building industry connections and finding mentors.  

For Sharp, the DITLO sessions were transformative. “I originally wanted to work in lighting or animation, but after attending the DITLO presentations sessions and taking courses in Animation, Compositing & Tracking, and FX, I discovered my true passion lies in FX or compositing—areas I barely knew about when I started.” 

Looking ahead, Dzudzar hopes to land a role as an artist. “I haven't chosen a specific discipline yet, but my goal is to be hired at RSP. In five years, I hope to have progressed in whatever field I choose and be enjoying life and my career”. 

Sharp has a clear vision for the future. “I hope to be working full-time in a VFX company, preferably in FX or rigging, ideally still based in Australia. It would mean a lot to have the stability of a full-time job, and to see my work on the big screen - something I can be proud of and share with family and friends.”

Through its decade-long partnership with the University of South Australia, Rising Sun Pictures continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Australian VFX artists —lighting the way from classroom to career. 

Apply now - for more information visit: STUDY WITH RSP

Still at school but want to find out more? GETTING STARTED IN VFX