Behind the screen at the Calgary International Film Festival

Rose Gurevitch has made a career out of transforming handsome actors into beat up old cowboys.

"It's a layered look, we'll darken their skin like they've been out in the sun for days, weeks. Add dirt, let it sink into the lines," said the Calgary-based makeup artist, who has worked behind the scenes of Brokeback Mountain and Hell on Wheels.

"Quite often, we're called in to do a quick effect They stage a fight, we run in, put blood in, maybe a bruise, a cut."

Gurevitch and several other professional makeup artists will be sharing their trade secrets at a free event on Sept. 25 at noon in Eau Claire Market.

• Calgary Entertainment: 5 things to do around the city this weekend
• CIFF unveils first wave of 2016 films, all with a musical theme

They'll be doing several demonstrations on stage, using prosthetics and wigs, then they'll give the audience members a few cuts and bruises.

"Makeup is very important [for actors].It helps their character development," said Gurevitch.

The event is part of the Calgary International Film Festival's new Behind the Screen series featuring talks and tours from industry experts who work in fields such as animal training and special effects.

With files from the Calgary Eyeopener