Kit West (6 February 1936 – 17 April 2016) was a British special effects artist who was most known for his work in Raiders of the Lost Ark, Return of the Jedi and Dune. Early life Born in London, his early films were government and military training films produced by Realist Film Unit. He served two years in the British Army, where he gained experience in pyrotechnics. Oscar history All these were for Best Visual Effects. 1981 Academy Awards-Raiders of the Lost Ark, award shared with Richard Edlund, Joe Johnston and Bruce Nicholson. Won the Oscar. 1985 Academy Awards-Young Sherlock Holmes, nomination shared with David W. Allen, John R. Ellis and Dennis Muren. Lost to Cocoon. 1996 Academy Awards-Dragonheart, nomination shared with Scott Squires, James Straus and Phil Tippett. Lost to Independence Day. BAFTA award 1983–Return of the Jedi-for Best Special Effects-Won, shared with Richard Edlund, Dennis Muren and Ken Ralston. Death West died on 17 April 2016 and was cremated at Mortlake Crematorium. References External links 1936 births 2016 deaths Best Visual Effects Academy Award winners Best Visual Effects BAFTA Award winners Special effects people Place of death missing