Anjana Rajapakshe

I hold a BSc in Computer Animation and work as a VFX generalist with a specialism in rigging. My practice spans multiple areas of the VFX pipeline including modelling, animation, compositing, and rigging but rigging remains the core of my creative and technical focus.

I’m currently deepening my expertise in creature rigging, which I find both technically challenging and creatively fulfilling. I particularly enjoy the problem-solving aspect.

Before joining academia, I worked as an Assistant Director in film production, managing set operations, coordinating cast and crew, scouting locations, and supporting directors in realising their creative vision. These experiences continue to inform my approach to production-based teaching.

In my current role, I teach 3D animation and rigging on the Animation and Visual Effects program. A highlight of my time here has been contributing to Ice Age: A Frozen World, produced by October Films. This collaborative project brought together students and staff from Film & Moving Image, Games Art & Design, and Animation & Visual Effects. I developed a Smilodon rig based on the brief and enhanced its design through research-driven iteration.

I’ve also collaborated with a studio in my home country Sri Lanka to create motion-capture-ready rigs for a short film, an experience that reflects my interest in international collaboration and cross-cultural storytelling.

My current research is centred on Python-based rigging tool development, modular systems, and advanced creature workflows. I’m also developing a short film project to further challenge myself, expand my creative scope, and explore new directions in rigging practice.