Many in magic have stood on the shoulders of giants. Only a few have become giants themselves. Wayne Houchin is a giant in the making, who has made the most of opportunities and created a few lucky breaks of his own.

It started, like most magicians, with a Copperfield show. As a 5-year-old, Houchin saw Copperfield perform his "Escape From Alcatraz" at a Tucson, Ariz. theater. From that point, his family made it a tradition to watch Copperfield's TV specials. But watching wasn't enough for Wayne. He started constructing his own illusions with cardboard boxes, duct tape, fishing line and whatever else he could find.

He started busking at 14 and booked his first theater show at 16. He was discovered by Banachek, the legendary mentalist. From there, he was one of the first consultants for Criss Angel's Mindfreak. He has worked with close-up godfather Paul Harris.

Since then, he has become one of the most prolific creators and teachers in magic today. His effects, including Sinful, Stigmata, Indecent and Thread, are among many street magicians' short lists of must-haves. He leaves audiences flabbergasted with his sparse presentations and magnetic charisma.

But magic hasn't been able to contain Houchin. He has also become a prolific producer and videographer, producing work such as Aaron Fisher's Search and Destroy. Houchin's influence on magic can be seen in new effects being released, in the way those effects are taught, and in the production of the DVD.

It's hard to imagine what more Houchin could do. But just sit back and watch. He'll do it. Amazingly.