From instagram-worthy SFX looks to a production class that’s a must —creative duo Matt & Mykal have crafted a gift guide for people who love to learn!

The people behind our social media are here to share what they’d be excited to give and receive this holiday season. Exploring gifts as a way to connect, learn, and build meaningful relationships & skills.

All their picks are currently enrolling and up to 20% off until 11/30!

MYKAL’S PICKS —

Born and raised in Memphis, TN, Mykal is a 20-year-old Junior at Texas State University, double majoring in Film & Electronic Media. When she’s not working as one of our Social Media/Marketing Interns, you can find her filming and editing a variety of videos for everyone from fraternities to K-pop dance teams.

A Haunting Holiday Horror Showcase (Virtual Screening)

I absolutely love movie screenings! Being a film major, I've seen quite a few, but it never gets old. Even with the advent of COVID, this is an activity artists of all forms and mediums can still indulge in. This one is curated by the wonderful east-coaster herself, Ana Armengod.

I had the opportunity to attend her collaboration workshop with the Austin School of Film back in October and it was such a lovely experience! I had to catch myself a few times, because I almost forgot I wasn’t at a movie theater.

SFX Makeup Workshop: Krampus (Holiday Edition)

When I asked my sister about what class looked the most exciting to her she immediately pointed out our Krampus SFX Workshop! Personally, she loves playing with color and texture, but really appreciates combining a more eccentric style with certain aesthetics. Watching her grow over the years with stage makeup especially has made me really see the benefits of taking a class like this.

I think for any avid makeup lover or anyone into special effects, this is going to be such a super fun workshop! Even though I'm definitely not as skilled as my sibling in this department, anyone could pick up a cool thing or two from this opportunity.

SFX Workshop Happy Hour: Sips, Space, and Star Stuff

Ok, so spoiler alert I can't drink yet, but my mom loves these types of things so I'm going to recommend it on her behalf.

As a high school teacher, she has a lot of fun with a project or DIY-type of activity; not to mention one that involves a fruity drink or two. In her words, “This is a really relaxing type of class to help you decompress after a long day at work”. I think this could also just be fun for all the parents out there to have a chance to sit back and learn something new. Even better, you could turn this into anything from a new skill, a hobby, or simply a recipe to keep in the books.

MATT’S PICKS —

Matt is a Community Manager at Austin School of Film and also assists on the marketing team. He is a filmmaker, artist, and loves to help others.

Zinemaking Workshop: Time Capsule

I’ve taken several zinemaking workshops through PLAY AT HOME and have been intrigued in each and every one. Zinemaking is a great way to spread awareness to different causes or a way to share your creative expression. I recommend this workshop for anyone interested in DIY and community.

16mm Direct Animation: A Haunting Holiday

I’m so excited for this workshop mostly because it comes with a paint set from Paris. How cool is that?!

While I’ve never taken one of these workshops for myself I’ve seen various student works and am always so impressed with the creativity. I recommend this workshop to my friends who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty to make some cool art.

Production Management

This is a full on class that I think everyone should take in the film community. I had the opportunity to take this class in person last year and absolutely loved it.

It’s so important to understand what goes into production and the resources most people don’t know about or don’t know how to find.

Gifts For People Who Love To Learn