Legendary designer, artist, and ‘visual futurist’ Syd Mead came to Vancouver last night, to speak to a sold-out crowd at the Empire Theatre.

But before the designer for Blade Runner, Tron, Star Trek: The Motion Picture, and Aliens talked to the public - he spent the day with us.

Syd enjoyed a tour of the Animation & Visual Effects and Sound Design programs, sharing thoughts about his process, anecdotes about his experiences, and signing the occasional autograph (as well as his own drawing in a Classical Animation class).

He then spent time with students at computers in labs and in the “ant farm”, offering thoughts on work in progress, and advice to the next generation of artists.

Syd’s impression of the work coming out of VFS was that he loved the sense of humour in so many students’ pieces.

As far as how VFS enjoyed Syd’s visit, one 3D instructor was heard speaking to a few students in low tones: “God is here today”.

Thank you so much for the visit, Mr. Mead - you’ve been an inspiration for decades, and we thank you for your work, your time, and your words.