Michael Kessler

About

Built by hand.
Scored by ear.

I'm Michael — a special effects artist and music composer based in Christiansburg, VA. I love making things: Props, sculptures, animatronics, electronic signs and music.

On the props side I specialize in creating sculptures, electronic signs, animatronics, helmets, armor, masks, etc. My fabrication skills span mold making and casting in silicone, urethane, and plaster, foam fabrication with EVA and upholstery foam, fiberglass work, resin casting, welding, metalwork, and woodworking.

I sculpt in monster and WED clay and finish everything with painting, airbrushing, weathering, and aging techniques. I also integrate LED lighting and basic electronics into builds, and can handle mechanical and animatronic rigging where a piece calls for it. On the digital side I work with 3D printing, 3D modeling and design, and I'm comfortable reading technical drawings and blueprints. I can make and repair patterns, and take on prop repair and restoration work as well.

On the music side I compose and produce original work across two distinct worlds. For games, I have scored puzzle titles with releases coming later this year, building soundscapes that support atmosphere and player focus without getting in the way of the experience. For main stream music, I produce house, disco, UK garage, and synthwave. All of my music is produced in Propellerhead Reason but I also have experience in Ableton.