We recently connected with Vincent MacTiernan and have shared our conversation below.
Vincent, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Discovering one’s purpose in life is often portrayed as a daunting task, but in reality, it can be simpler than expected. In my case, it all boiled down to a single question that led me from a mediocre job to becoming a highly acclaimed Visual Effects artist and compositor in the film and television industry. Like many individuals, I struggled to identify my true calling. I dabbled in various jobs – from working in a bowling alley to a supermarket, fast food joint, and clothing store – without finding genuine satisfaction. While my peers were establishing their careers, I was still grappling with self-discovery, wondering why success eluded me. Then, during my stint as a customer service representative at a healthcare firm, I posed a crucial question to myself: “If I could pursue any activity for the rest of my life and derive immense joy from it, what would it be?” Disregarding financial constraints and logistical hurdles, I focused on what would bring me the most spiritual content. Each person’s response to this question may vary, but for me, the answer was creating Visual Effects. I have always had an interest in VFX work on computers and showcasing my 3D skills. Once I identified my true purpose, there was no turning back. Immersed in what I love, work ceased to feel like a chore, leading to my success and recognition in the field. By following my heart and not giving in to negative thoughts, I not only found fulfillment but also achieved financial prosperity as a welcome bonus. My purpose continues to evolve, guided by my own choices and aspirations.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a visual fx artist and compositor with over ten years of experience in both the film and television industries. Throughout my career, I have contributed to numerous feature films, TV shows, and commercials, utilizing a range of compositing and digital painting software to create intricate and lifelike effects. Notably, I recently worked on the film “Eileen,” featuring Anne Hathaway, as well as “The Ruse,” starring Veronica Cartwright. In these projects, my responsibilities encompassed tracking and compositing various shots, which involved tasks such as object removal, incorporating new elements, and rotoscoping. These effects are known as hidden FX, as their seamless integration into the scenes made them indistinguishable from reality.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The three key attributes that proved invaluable throughout my journey were as follows: 1) Resilience against negative thoughts that could hinder my progress towards achieving my goals.
2) A perpetual thirst for knowledge, regardless of the number of years of experience, as there are always innovative and superior methods to accomplish tasks.
3) Above all, prioritizing quality over quantity, as it is the factor that truly sets one apart from the rest.
My most valuable advice is to pose the same question I once asked myself: If you could engage in an activity for the rest of your life and derive genuine enjoyment from it, disregarding monetary considerations or the path to attaining it, what would it be? Once you have identified that passion, pursue it wholeheartedly. Your enthusiasm and determination will enable you to connect with like-minded individuals and discover ways to transform it into a reality.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am constantly seeking opportunities to collaborate with like-minded individuals who share the same ambition and enthusiasm for producing groundbreaking and captivating Visual FX work that resonates with viewers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.extremedigitalpro.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattewizard/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr25Klo_ECzJn1EIdiDWI-g
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2039970/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_1_q_vincentmactiernan
