Erika Murphy
The focus of my Major Project was to create my own interpretation of a human transformation into an insect inspired by two Film adaptations of The Fly. I wanted to explore themes of body horror and transformation while challenging myself creatively. Taking inspiration from the 1950s setting of the original film, I designed a femme fatale character undergoing a fly transformation. I aimed to combine classic vintage beauty with disturbing elements to create a transformation that felt both glamorous and unsettling. This projected allowed me to experiment with character makeup design, storytelling, and transformation techniques while developing my own creative approach.
The main objective of this project was to explore themes of body horror, transformation and identity through character makeup design. Inspired by The Fly, I wanted to create my own original interpretation that combined elements of horror with the glamour and style of 1950s cinema. I aimed to challenge myself creatively by experimenting with transformation makeup and developing a character that visually tells a story. I also wanted to expand my skills in makeup effects, character development, and visual storytelling by stepping outside the styles and techniques I would usually create.
Character Transformation: The outcome of this project was the creation of a 1950s inspired femme fatale character undergoing a fly transformation. Through the use of 2d and 3d skills, makeup design and transformation techniques, I created a character that combined vintage glamour with elements of body horror and unease. I developed a stronger understanding of character storytelling through makeup and learned how small design details can help communicate transformation and emotion visually. I also gained more confidence experimenting with horror inspired makeup and pushing my creativity beyond my usual style of work. I discovered throughout the process the importance of balancing beauty with discomfort to create a more impactful transformation. This project allowed me to expand my problem solving skills and develop technical skills in sculpting and prosthetics creation and application.
Although my major project focuses on The fly adaptations, my minor project was developed in connection with my thesis research on 1930s gangster culture. This allowed me to combine my academic research with practice character design and makeup work, creating a project that visually reflects the themes explored within my written study.
I'm a final year Design for Film student specialising in Character Makeup Design. I've always had a passion for makeup, film, art, and all things creative. Over the past four years I have developed my skills through hands on experiences in character creation, makeup artistry and collaborative film projects that gave me the opportunity to work on student films, creative shoots, theatre productions and makeup brands. I enjoy transforming, designing and bringing ideas to life on screen and stage. I enjoy pushing myself creatively and learning new techniques that will help me grow as an artist, and I'm excited to continue developing my style and experience within the creative industry,
