INDUSTRY ADVISORY BOARD
The Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA) is excited to introduce its Industry Advisory Board, composed of leading experts from across the creative industries. Their insights into future trends, emerging technologies, and essential competencies will guide the evolution of CEA’s curriculum. While their focus is on shaping CEA’s strategy, their expertise will indirectly benefit students by influencing program development. Additionally, both online and in-person events featuring Advisory Board members will provide invaluable opportunities for knowledge sharing, helping prepare students for success in animation, VFX, game development, and more in the creative landscape.
MOHSEN MOUSAVI
Mohsen Mousavi, Emmy-winning VFX Supervisor and Director of Visual Pioneering, Creative Director, and Senior VFX Supervisor at EYELINE Powered by Netflix, brings his expertise to the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA), enhancing its visual effects curriculum. Known for his advanced VFX methodologies, Mohsen’s work on Game of Thrones and films like Hugo and The Amazing Spider-Man informs CEA’s education in cutting-edge techniques. With over 20 years of experience in AI, crowd simulations, and physics-based tools, his contributions ensure that CEA students gain the skills needed for success in the VFX and film industries, aligning with the latest industry trends and future technologies.
CARA DAVIES
Cara Davies is a skilled visual effects executive producer with over 15 years of experience. Her career began at Framestore London, where she contributed to Avatar and Gravity. In 2010, she moved to Aardman Animation, helping establish their visual effects division and working on Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists. After relocating to Vancouver, Cara joined Image Engine in 2012, becoming an executive producer in 2023. As part of the Senior Management Team, she helps shape the studio’s strategic direction and mentors the next generation of VFX producers. Cara’s credits include The Book of Boba Fett, Ahsoka, The Mandalorian, Fantastic Beasts, Logan, and Independence Day: Resurgence.
JAN PHILIP CRAMER
Jan Philip Cramer, an award-nominated Visual Effects Supervisor, is renowned for his innovative work in animation and visual effects. As Animation Director at Digital Domain, Phil led groundbreaking projects in photoreal creature and facial animation, overseeing some of the industry’s top animators. His 15-year tenure included overseeing 43 major projects such as Deadpool, X-Men: Days of Future Past, and Avatar. As VFX Supervisor, Phil has pushed the boundaries of visual effects, earning recognition for his work on Avengers: Infinity War and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. His involvement with CEA brings cutting-edge insights to the curriculum, helping prepare students for success in the VFX industry.
STEVEN READ
Steve has been active in the film and television industry since 1997, offering deep expertise in both creative and technical production for international tent pole projects. In 2020, he launched the international division of Versatile Media, a Vancouver-based studio at the forefront of virtual production technologies. In 2008, Steve co-founded the Emmy-nominated One Animation Studio and played pivotal roles in high-profile projects, including the Oscar-winning‘Happy Feet’ (2006). In the early part of his career based in London, Steve collaborated on Terry Gilliam’s films, such as‘Brothers Grimm’ (2005). He also spent several years at Softimage, contributing to the evolution of 3D animation software, while working on productions like Henson’s Creature Shop’s‘Lost in Space’ (1998)and Framestore’s mini-series‘Walking with Dinosaurs’ (1999).
SHASHA PU
Shasha, a graduate of the prestigious Central Academy of Drama in Beijing, is the founder of Pony Children’s Theatre and a member of the Beijing Television Artists Association and the Actors Committee of the Chinese Federation of Radio and Television Associations. A renowned screen and stage actor, she has performed in numerous TV series and stage plays. Her passion for children’s theater led her to pioneer performing arts education for youth in China, gaining widespread recognition. After relocating to Canada, Shasha co-founded a media company and launched FAANA, a non-profit dedicated to cultural exchange, film and TV distribution, and project financing.
WILL MOORE
Will Moore brings 30 years in video games, film, music, and tech. As Founder & CEO of Navigator Games, a top AAA IP game developer, he’s led projects achieving #1 rankings globally. Before gaming, Will’s consultancy advised major clients like BFI, BAFTA, MTV, and Live Nation on iconic events including the Grammys, Brit Awards, and London 2012 Olympics. Starting at Virgin Records in London and LA, he worked with David Bowie and the Rolling Stones and contributed to the GoldenEye soundtrack. Specialties: AAA IP, leadership development, and company culture. MBA thesis: Innovation in Entertainment Technology.
SEPP SONNTAG
Sepp Sonntag brings over 18 years of visual effects expertise to his role as Head of Real-Time Creative at Dneg. Originally from Munich, Sepp began his career as a Matte Painter at Scanline VFX, later advancing to Matte Painting Lead at MPC in London and Vancouver. In 2018, he joined Image Engine, where he focused on real-time visualization using Unreal Engine. By 2021, Sepp was leading virtual production at Pixomondo, specializing in in-camera visual effects (ICVFX) and real-time workflows. Now at Dneg, he continues to explore real-time production. Sepp also mentors students at Bow Valley College, sharing his expertise in virtual production with future visual effects professionals.
YIPENG BEN LU
Yipeng Ben Lu, a China native now based in Canada, is an award-winning television commercial producer and director, known for his work in scripted drama. His prime-time TV drama series BLOOD AND WATER earned numerous accolades, including a Canadian Screen Award for Best Dramatic Series. The show launched stars like Simu Liu and Selena Lee and was praised by top critics, including The Globe and Mail. Through EPE, Ben has executive produced films like The Loneliest Whale and Bisping. He also advises Zee Studios International and the Centre for Entertainment Arts. Ben co-founded the #HealthNotHate anti-racism campaign and speaks native Mandarin and Cantonese.
GARY TIBBETT
With over a decade of experience in the video games and esports industry, Gary has been instrumental in advancing esports education globally, including developing the world’s first accredited Esports qualification. As Head of Partnerships at British Esports, he fosters global collaborations, bridging institutions, partners, and organizations in the esports ecosystem.
A visionary leader, Gary emphasizes the potential of esports to enhance cognitive skills, foster transferable abilities, and unite communities. He has worked with industry giants like Riot Games, Tencent, Microsoft, and Dell, contributing to initiatives that shape the future of esports and inspire innovation, inclusivity, and global opportunities.