Day 2: Creativity In the Age of AI with Sean Cushing

Sean Cushing is the co-founder of Cantina Creative, a high-end visual effects and design company located in Los Angeles. 

Cushing is also a board member of the non-profit organization, Climate Cents, which organizes crowdfunding campaigns to rebuild natural ecosystems, sequester carbon, and support Los Angeles County communities with climate adaptation, education, and sustainable development.

In 1999, Cushing entered the entertainment sector when he joined Reel Efx, a special effects company. Prior to Reel Efx, Cushing applied his skills in product design and computer aided modeling to help create fountain structures around the world (including the now famous Bellagio feature) for renowned architectural firm WET Design.

Cushing graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS:

• Step inside the world of high-end graphics and the hidden work behind blockbuster franchises
• Hear why studios are drawing a hard line against AI use in production
• Discover why adaptability now outweighs expertise in one skill
• Explore what never changes no matter how fast the tools evolve
• Learn why a single human choice matters more than thousands of AI outputs
• Explore why mastering AI is becoming essential for visual effects artists
• Hear why AI might get you 70% there but not the perfect vision
• What it means to bring legacy Hollywood storytelling skills together with new creator economies
• Spot the opportunity AI is quietly opening in your industry
• How opportunity favors those willing to start over and embrace failure
• From VFX to starting a whiskey company: why you’re never really starting over
• How experiencing life outside your screen fuels better creative decisions

RESOURCES:

Cantina Creative Website

Cantina Creative Youtube Channel