Nik’s love of makeup was propelled by an interest in magic and a curiosity in the human condition. At a young age he developed products unavailable in Australia at the time, and too expensive to import.

Nik started working in the Australian Film and TV industry in 1981 soon moving from the makeup department to specialising in prosthetics, makeup effects and character effect.

After over 35 years working on a wide variety of films, Nik’s career turned full circle when an opportunity arose to further his interest in product development.

A chance meeting with a cosmetic chemist led to the development of Bluebird Ink, and the Bluebird FX company.

Some fifteen years later, the company – now Allied FX Company – distributes their original Ink plus dozens more unique professional products around the world.