Black Room, part of international education programme Discovery Campus will focus on on the concept development and technical skills of visual character design. Eight emerging makeup artists and hairstylists have been selected to join an intensive three-day programme of masterclasses, workshops, and talks led by world-renowned mentors including Debra McGuire, celebrated costume designer known for Friends; Nina Paskowitz, one of Hollywood’s leading hairstylists; and Thomas Foldberg, renowned prosthetic makeup designer.

Each year, eight emerging talents are selected to take part in Black Room.This year’s participants come from across the Baltic region and beyond: SFX makeup artist Agata Śmiałko (Poland), makeup artist Anete Sidlovska (Latvia), hairdresser, make-up and special effects artist Edith Eller (Estonia), make up artist Eliise Sepp (Estonia), makeup artist Eglė Žaliauskaitė (Lithuania), makeup artist specialisted in stage makeup, prosthetics, and character design Liisbeth Liidemaa (Estonia), makeup artist and designer Liisi Põllumaa (Estonia) and makeup and hair designer Maija Gundare (Latvia).

Learn more about the selected Black Room participants here

Running from 19–21 November 2025, the Black Room holds an immersive series of masterclasses, workshops, and open lectures designed for emerging and established professionals in film craft, design, and visual storytelling.
This year’s highlights include a closed session with Thomas Foldberg, who will share insight into character & prosthetic makeup design, including technical solutions, case studies, and creative process. In a workshop for Black Room selected participants Nina Paskowitz, Hollywood’s veteran department-head hairstylist, will reflect on her 30-plus year career and mentoring on working with talent, wigs, natural hair, extensions, and sustainable practices. With a passion for collaboration, she speaks a wealth of experience and insider tricks of the trade – especially when it comes to working with talent and production to craft the perfect hairstyle for each character.

The programme also includes open sessions for guests with Industry@Tallinn & Baltic Event accreditation or day ticket. One of the most anticipated will be an open lecture by Debra McGuire, renowned costume designer known for her work on Friends, Sonic the Hedgehog and many other titles, on the visual journey and refinement of process in costume design. Currently Debra designs for Jennifer Aniston in The Morning Show (Seasons 2, 3, and now Season 4).

For full programme details, schedule, locations, and application instructions, visit the Industry@Tallinn & Baltic Event website.