Toronto’s definitely gone to the nerds. Not only are we hosting Fan Expo this weekend, but a brand new exhibit showcasing the work of makeup artist extraordinaire and special effects master Gordon Smith opened last week at TIFF Bell Lightbox. (For non-nerds, he’s the guy who created Wolverine’s claws and the bodacious blue-skinned Mystique in X-Men and X2.)

An Ontario native, Smith is a 30-year veteran in the special effects and makeup design industry. His previous work includes David Cronenberg’s Dead Ringers and Adrian Lyne’s Jacob’s Ladder, among others, but it’s his spectacular work from the X-Men film franchise that will be displayed at TIFF’s CIBC Canadian Film Gallery until March 31, 2013.

The free exhibition allows visitors to get a close-up look at the advanced silicone makeup technology Smith used on the characters Wolverine, Mystique, Senator Kelly, Lady Deathstrike, Sabretooth, Toad and Nightcrawler. Among the creations on display include Wolverine’s badass blades and Mystique’s full-body costume, which has inspired a ton of knock-offs.

Beginning next month, there will be complimentary 30-minute guided tours every week, highlighting Smith’s drawings, original castings, props and more. On Oct. 30, Smith himself will be on hand for an informal Q&A session.

Oh, and for those super nerds, there will be special extended hours of the exhibit for Fan Expo guests tonight.

X-Men Master: Gordon Smith, TIFF Bell Lightbox Theatre, CIBC Canadian Film Gallery, 350 King St. W., 416-599-8433. Now – March 31, 2013.