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The rise of VFX mentors and online schools has raised eyebrows. Some liken it to selling shovels to miners after the gold rush. But this view is narrow. What’s happening isn’t desperation, it’s evolution.
VFX education, like the craft itself, adapts to thrive in changing conditions.
Every industry shifts, and VFX is no different. The demand for multi-skilled artists, those who can think both technically and creatively, exposes cracks in traditional education. Universities and YouTube tutorials struggle to keep pace with industry changes.
In response, seasoned professionals step in with insights shaped not by theory but by relentless production deadlines, impossible budgets, and delivering the impossible under pressure.
Many critics frame new mentors as underqualified or opportunistic. But the value of a mentor doesn’t hinge on seniority alone, it lies in how well they can guide students through today’s challenges.
Teaching today requires more than just experience; it demands the ability to understand the evolving realities of the industry and offer practical pathways forward.
Calling this wave of mentorship a dilution misses the point, it’s a necessary realignment. Industry veterans bring a deep well of experience, while newer mentors offer fresh perspectives on current tools and workflows.
Both are indispensable. Dismissing one voice in favor of the other closes doors to growth and reinvention.
Today’s artists aren’t looking for abstract theory, they want actionable advice and hands-on feedback. Whether to land a first job or pivot into a new role, artists need mentors who reflect current realities.
Online platforms are unlocking access to expertise that was once locked behind studio walls, giving more students the chance to connect with the guidance that matches their ambitions.
The criticism that “there are too many mentors” overlooks a key truth: education isn’t a limited resource, it grows with demand. Some students flourish under industry veterans; others resonate with mentors still climbing the ladder.
More mentors mean more ways to connect with diverse learning styles.
Yes, the VFX industry faces turbulence: tight deadlines, volatile markets, and fast-changing technology. But these struggles make mentorship even more critical.
A mentor’s role isn’t to guarantee smooth sailing; it’s to teach resilience, adaptability, and the ability to thrive amid uncertainty. These are the currencies that matter most in creative careers.
Mentorship isn’t an escape, it’s a continuation of the work. Teaching allows artists to stay connected with their craft while empowering the next generation. It reflects a shift in the industry’s rhythm, acknowledging that the traditional career path is evolving.
Far from a sign of failure, the rise in mentorship is proof that creativity, like knowledge, flourishes through sharing.