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Artists of Film

Posted by Julie James on August 28, 2020

Artists of Film - a blog series.

I have had the pleasure of interviewing Reece Dixon of Jack Gohan Designs, an awesome Weta Workshop Artist and Tour Guide. I have known Reece for 6 years now and am continuously amazed with his talented jewellery creations and his passion for Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit and his own personal design artwork! Many of our Tour passengers get to meet Reece and have the opportunity to purchase his bespoke pieces of Middle earth jewellery. He is also an expert in the designing and making of chainmail. Here is our conversation for you to enjoy!

Julie: "What films have you worked on in the past?"

Reece: "I'm credited with working on all three hobbit films as a workshop technician and armour maker. I have been in 3 TV commercials and one up and coming film as an actor ;) "

Julie: "What have been some of your favourite experiences working on films and which ones?"

Reece: "Meeting everyone, learning from people like Darin Gordine and Matt Appleton and Peter Lyon who are armour and weapon making wise like Rodan, Da Vinci and Rembrandt. That's the best part, geeking out over things with Adam Savage. sharing the love." 

Julie:  "What is your favourite piece of artwork, costuming, or prosthetics?"

Reece: "My favourite prop is 100% Han Solos blaster from the original 77 film. Me and my buddy Zac Johnson made a mould and cast one for ourselves and they are just so freaking cool. Iconic pieces of cinema."

Julie: "What are you currently working on?"

Reece: "Currently I'm slowly getting my forge set up, and redoing my Chainmail shirt. I have also been making armour and costume for Sylvanian family toys. Which is fiddly but super fun, Those are for sale btw, Each one's unique and handmade, tiny steel swords and everything! "

Julie:  "What is the next film coming out the you are most looking forward to see?"

Reece: "I'm super keen to see the new Ghostbusters. With Finn Wolfhart, it reminds me of super8 or stranger things... I mean I lived the 80s lol so its nostalgic I guess"

Julie:  "How long have you worked for Weta Workshop and in what departments?"

Reece: "Been associated with Weta for almost ten years now in technician, jewellery supplier, and tourism department."

Julie:  "If people would like to check out your work or buy any of your artwork how do they contact you? "

Reece: "Instagram is the best place @jackgohandesign or via Facebook.  Also starting streaming on twitch and YouTube making things, going on adventures, playing games. A lot of jewellery available atm tho. and I love commissions. Working in Steel, copper anodized aluminium brass sterling silver.... everything lol "

Julie: "One final question, what are your thoughts and things you are hoping to see on the new Lord of the Rings TV series being filmed in New Zealand?"

Reece: "I hope to see good chainmail and prosthetics !"

Julie: "Me Too!"

Thank you for your time Reece, I’ll watch your budding career with great interest.

All the very best, see you soon with another Fellowship.