Thomas Downs
Head Of Finishing, Flame Artist
Los Angeles,CA
Summary
With 31 years of commercial experience, Thomas has collaborated with some of the world's most recognized brands, leading production companies and top advertising agencies. His experience and knowledge enabled him to co-found post production design studio Burn. Rash. Repeat. with Greg Anderson in 2008.
Currently as a Head of Finishing/Flame Artist, Thomas has a solid background in overseeing all Finishing operations in post production.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Finishing
The Mill
10.2021 - 02.2025
- Responsible for hiring and managing Flame talent.
- Made sure all Finishing projects were fulfilling our client's needs from start to finish.
- Aided executive producers with bidding and scheduling.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations of our department, focusing on team efficiency and productivity.
- Conducted performance reviews for team members, providing constructive feedback and opportunities for professional development.
Lead Flame Finishing Artist
Method Studios/Company 3
01.2011 - 12.2021
- Lead Flame artist on campaigns for Dr. Pepper, Best Buy, Taco Bell, Aspen Dental, T Mobile, and Microsoft.
- Aided executive producers with bidding and scheduling.
Co-Founder
Burn.Crash.Repeat.
01.2008 - 01.2011
- Co-Founder of a visual effects and design-driven studio with offices in New York City and Los Angeles.
- Worked on a wide variety of projects for MTV, OWN Network, Comedy Central, and Cognizant.
- VFX Supervisor, Flame Artist
- Conceptualized pitches for prospective projects.
- Developed marketing materials and campaigns to boost company awareness.
- Networked with other businesses and customers to increase sales opportunities and contacts.
- Managed financial operations.
Freelance Artist
Ring of Fire Studios
06.2004 - 01.2008
- Lead artist on a Clio and Cannes Lion award-winning commercial for Starburst 'Factory'.
- Lead artist on a Cannes Lion award-winning commercial for CBS 'Window'.
Freelance Artist
Fox Studios
01.2004 - 01.2008
- Assisted in the design and formation/Finishing of 9 Promax/BDA award-winning commercials for Nascar, Bowl Championship Series, NFL, and Fight Science.
Visual Effects Artist
Panopoly Pictures
01.2001 - 01.2004
- Focused on design-driven commercials.
- Worked with clients such as Universal Pictures, Amblin Entertainment, and ABC.
- Contributed to Panopoly winning two gold Promax awards and three Silver Promax awards.
Freelance Artist
Engine Company Number Nine
01.1996 - 01.2001
- Worked with top post production/design houses.
- Clients included Coca Cola, AT&T, NVA, L'Oreal, and Nike.
Online Effects Editor
R/Greenberg Associates
01.1993 - 01.1996
- Was one of the earliest to master Autodesk's Flame software system for commercial visual effects.
- Became one of R/GA's leading online effects editors.
Education
Bachelor's degree - film art
Syracuse University
Skills
Comprehensive knowledge of Autodesk's Flame software
Facilitate bid management and scheduling
Ensures high-quality output and timely project completion
Demonstrates effective leadership and problem-solving
Fosters team efficiency and productivity
Websites
Timeline
Head of Finishing
The Mill
10.2021 - 02.2025
Lead Flame Finishing Artist
Method Studios/Company 3
01.2011 - 12.2021
Co-Founder
Burn.Crash.Repeat.
01.2008 - 01.2011
Freelance Artist
Ring of Fire Studios
06.2004 - 01.2008
Freelance Artist
Fox Studios
01.2004 - 01.2008
Visual Effects Artist
Panopoly Pictures
01.2001 - 01.2004
Freelance Artist
Engine Company Number Nine
01.1996 - 01.2001
Online Effects Editor
R/Greenberg Associates
01.1993 - 01.1996
Bachelor's degree - film art
Syracuse University
Similar Profiles
Chad AngeliniChad Angelini
Warehouse Associate at The MillWarehouse Associate at The Mill
Katya PavlovaKatya Pavlova
VFX Post Producer at The MillVFX Post Producer at The Mill
Mohit HembramMohit Hembram
Lighting Artist at The MillLighting Artist at The Mill
Jimmy VenturaJimmy Ventura
Electrician at Hiltys ElectricElectrician at Hiltys Electric
James DeadyJames Deady
Independent Contractor at Freelance & Gig WorkIndependent Contractor at Freelance & Gig Work