Ben Smith Whatley was born in Sydney in the mid 80’s, but lived and travelled across the globe before taking up roots in Canberra. It is here he studied Photomedia at the ANU, Screen VFX at AIE, and illustrated several children’s books while raising his son. Ben used his knowledge of CG modelling to co-found Smashbyte Game Studio where he modelled, rigged and animated characters for interactive media. In recent years due to connections in the cosplay community, Ben has honed his skills in physical model making, designing both accessories that have complimented award winning costumes, and props for productions ranging from stage to screen. Ben also bakes cookies when he’s stressed, an inevitability his workmates tend to take advantage of.
