A character artist works under the supervision of art directors to create 2D and 3D character designs for films and marketing materials. They take concept art from concept artists and refine the designs through multiple iterations. The artist then creates a 3D model on the computer while considering technical requirements and animation needs. As the character moves through production, the artist collaborates with other departments to maintain a consistent style. The job requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field as well as skills in illustration, modeling, and software like Maya and Photoshop. Character artists can expect long hours including weekends and must have a strong passion for withstanding critique to improve. Salaries range from $70,000 in the US to £52,000 in

1. Character
Artist
Job Profile
By Kurt Ilko

2. What is a Character Artist?
• A character artist puts an idea into fruition, this individual performs with
the supervision of the director of art and other lead character artists to
produce character virtues for use in films and marketing materials.
Based on the concept artist's pictures that he drew, this person creates
inigamestial 2D drawings.Those designs are then presented to the
design and art teams, altered slightly, and looked over.Then the artist
will model a 3D image on the computer, slowly adjusting definition,
mass, and colour. Improvements such as shading and feeling could be
the duty of the character artist, or can be given to specialists. In the
modelling process, they must bare in mind the technical constraints of
the film (like poly count and storage capacity) and the concerns of the
animators. As the character progresses through the pipeline to rigging
and animation, the artist will work closely with those departments to
ensure consistent character style.

3. Experiences, Skills and Education.
• You must possess bachelor’s degree.
• Majors in fine art, game art, and graphic design
• Artistic ability and solid skills in 2-D illustration and 3-D modelling.
• Well-versed in the use of Maya, 3ds Max, Mud box, Z brush, and
Photoshop.
• Studying the human form and that of animals can give the artist an
enhanced ability to create lifelike models.
• Effective communicator and a great listener.

4. What to Expect as a Character Artist…
• 10 hour shifts per day (including most weekends).
• You must have a huge passion or you will not like this job.
• Tedious job.
• You will face a lot of critique from a lot of people so you have to be
able to take it with a pinch of salt. Also you must use the
constructive criticism and apply it to your work.
• In America you would expect your salary to be around $70,000
however if you reside in the UK, you would be looking at £52,000.