How to Transition into VFX with an Art Background

How to Transition into VFX with an Art Background

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35 Application spots left

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How to Transition into VFX with an Art Background

Details

APPLICATION GROUP 3
Applications Open:
2/6/25

THIS CIRCLE IS PERFECT FOR

  • Someone who already has art portfolio or design skills
  • Perhaps experience in a different area in VFX and looking to possibly transition into Surfacing or DMP

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Understanding how your skills fit in
  • Overview of industry needs and expectations
  • Learning what you still need to build and work on
  • Finding resources to help you on your way
  • How to best present your work to a recruiter

WHAT NOT TO EXPECT

  • No demo’s on how to do the job/tips and tricks
  • No resume reviews

Qualification Criteria

Entry Level (1-2 yrs of experience)
Early Career (3-5 yrs of experience)

Day / Time

Times a month: Twice a month
Meeting day/time: Sunday 4:00 PM
Timezone: PST

* You must meet the qualification criteria AND be able to attend the posted day/time of the circle (please note the timezone posted)

CIRCLE DESCRIPTION

This circle is designed for experienced artists and designers who are curious about leveraging their existing art and design skills to transition into the specialized fields of Surfacing or Digital Matte Painting (DMP) within the VFX and Animation industries. Whether you have a strong portfolio from another creative discipline or are looking to expand your expertise, this circle offers valuable insights into these roles and how to position yourself for success.

What You’ll Explore in This Circle:

  • Understanding Surfacing and DMP: Gain clarity on the responsibilities, workflows, and creative opportunities in these roles within VFX and Animation pipelines
  • Building on Existing Skills: Discover how your current art and design expertise can translate into Surfacing or DMP, and identify the unique contributions you can bring to these fields
  • Learning Essential Tools and Techniques: Explore the additional software, tools, and techniques commonly used in Surfacing and DMP, and create a plan to expand your technical skillset
  • Developing a Transition Portfolio: Learn what makes a compelling portfolio for Surfacing and DMP roles, and start building or refining your work to align with industry expectations
  • Planning Your Career Shift: Strategize your next steps for transitioning into these fields, including networking tips, mentorship opportunities, and actionable advice to break into the industry

Join this circle to connect with peers and mentors, expand your knowledge, and take confident strides toward a career in Surfacing or Digital Matte Painting for VFX and Animation.

ADDITIONAL Application Requirements

Please submit the following as part of your Application Profile:
*(AFTER you click to apply, you must go into your member profile and complete the member-specific portion; these requirements should be submitted through that profile):  

  • Personal statement (why is this circle right for you?)
  • Link to art portfolio (hand drawn or student work)

Circle Leader

Kalene Dunsmoor

Kalene has worked in the VFX industry for over 2 decades. She has worked as a compositor, Matte Painter, Environment Artist, Concept Artist and Texture Artist on many features including Avatar, Iron Man, Transformers, Black Panther and Star Trek. Her background as a traditional fine artist has helped propel her career and has been a valuable resource for her work.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Current Title: Surfacing Lead

Studio / Employer:  Bardel Entertainment

Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kalene/

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