Notes on the 'How to become a Concept Artist' Interview with Tyler Finney, part of the 'Quest for Your Career' Series on Game Industry Career Guide. Full Interview Here:
"Compared to probably most of the other roles within the games industry, I have found that my job over the past 10 years has eluded a repetitious daily structure, and shrugged off nearly all predictability from project to project."
Finny works for Microsoft and has worked on multiple published titles across various platforms including Forza Motorsports 5. His first job was as a 2D artist and he spent years working until he finally got a concept art role.
During the interview Finney explains that his role as a concept artist is to give detailed artistic information to the production staff, however it is not limited only to drawing and painting. He continues that his role can include photographic research, UI design and producing Adobe In Design documents.
Besides being technically skilled, you also have to be able to communicate ideas effectively. Very important. And you have to accept that your work will by constantly revised or even thrown out, and that an involved art director will subject your work to constant scrutiny. Being open-minded and collaborative is a must.
Finney's advice to aspiring Concept Artists is to become multi-skilled so that you're more of a threat. He explains that the industry is so competitive with talent that artists who have skills extending beyond 2D painting will be at an advantage to others with less technical skill. His other advice is to have a specialist education and to get out and network!
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