Frequently Asked Questions
When and how was Artem established?
Artem was founded in 1988 by three former BBC employees: Mike Kelt, Simon Taylor and Stan Mitchell. Right from the start there was an ambition to provide a high quality, comprehensive offer to clients and this determination has driven all aspects of the business, from the decision - unusual in this industry - to employ a permanent core staff to the design and build of Artem’s workshop bases. In 2007 Artem opened a Scottish branch in Glasgow and there are plans for a Manchester base to open later in 2021.
What services does Artem provide?
Our wide range of in-house skills and problem-solving mentality allows us to take on almost any challenge. And if we can’t do it ourselves, we usually know someone who can and bring them in to join the project team. We particularly specialise in:
- Animation
- Animatronics and Puppets
- Atmospherics
- Confectionery and food
- Liquids
- Mechanical Rigs
- Models
- Miniatures
- Props
- Prosthetics
- Pyrotechnics
- Sculpture
- Special Costume
What are Artem’s facilities?
Our workshop facilities include:
- Modelling and sculpture studio
- Mould shop
- Spray booth
- Metal fabrication and welding
- Machine shop
- Electronics and software engineering
- CAD design and multi-axis CNC machining facilities
You can find out more about our onsite facilities here.
Do you have any on-site space suitable for filming?
Yes. Our spacious London backlot and canopy area is often used for commercials, music videos and elements shoots. Both workshops have space to film tests for in-house or client use.
How long will my job take?
We encourage clients to give us as much notice as possible for a project, as this gives us the opportunity to consider different approaches and to carry out testing. However, we pride ourselves on the ability to meet tight deadlines – we once produced a singing toilet within a turnaround of 48 hours.
What will my project cost?
We offer script breakdowns and cost estimates free of charge, and are always happy to discuss various options and to try and meet your budget requirements. For guidelines on costs for equipment hire and sales, visit the Hire and Sales section of our website.
Does Artem offer work experience?
Yes. We are always looking for the talent of the future. We work closely with a number of universities and colleges and provide them with secondments and work experience.
For more information about getting into a career in special effects, click here.
Can I visit Artem?
We have an opening evening each year at each of our bases, usually in the early summer when the weather is warmer. Attendees can tour our workshop and facilities, network with industry colleagues and watch our staff demonstrate a variety of effects. Be warned – audience participation is encouraged for our ‘getting shot’ competition and you may find yourself co-opted for wounds and prosthetics.
If you would like a tour of our facilities, perhaps with your students or production team, please do get in touch. We will do our best to accommodate you.
Does Artem offer design as well as manufacturing?
Yes. We are happy to discuss projects with clients at any stage of development; we can fabricate from your designs or use our skilled project managers and CAD team to assist with concept development and design.
We enjoy the creative challenge of designing characters or concepts from scratch and can provide fully drawn up, detailed renders using our 3D software packages; incorporating your feedback prior to commencing the manufacturing process.
