Games artists work under the supervision of a lead artist and perform a variety of tasks including concept art, 3D modeling, and texture creation. They need strong observational skills and an understanding of anatomy and architecture to quickly draw what they see. A background in comic books or storytelling is beneficial to convey emotion and story visually. Key skills include 3D modeling software proficiency, independent work, and effective communication. A degree in art, graphic design, or illustration provides relevant education, as do internships to build skills and portfolio.

1. Games Artist
Games Artists work under the supervision of the Lead artist. There are a
range of different tasks a Games Artist could have, sort of sub-jobs. These
include creating concept art for the game in pre-production, Modeling 3D
objects and character, and creating 2D textures and skins that will be
applied to 3D objects.
Games Artists need to have an
understanding of anatomy and architecture,
as well as the ability to do drawing from life.
The idea is they will be able to quickly and
accurately draw something they see, or is
described to them. So along those lines
they should have a strong eye for detail and
observation
They should also have a background in
Comic Book art, or other sequential story
telling. They should be able to convey story
through images, so this includes showing
emotion and expression in characters as
well as visual story telling skills.
Key Skills Required:
Games Artists need to be able to work
both independently and in teams,
having good communication skills so
they can understand and
communicate ideas to others.
They should be able to use software
like Photoshop and the 3D modeling
software Maya. Games Artists will
need to be able to 3D model,
understanding the more mathematical
side to it as well as the artistic side.
Ways to Enter the Job Role:
The main route is to have a background in Art as well as an education in it. This is usually a
Higher National Diploma or degree in an art subject, so Graphic Design, Illustration, etc.
They also look for computer skills with software and 3D modeling, so choosing education that
will give you those skills would be helpful.
Contribution made by a Games Artist on a TripleA title:
Michael Knowland - Lead Character Artist - ʻThe Last of Usʼ
A big contribution he made to the game development was
creating the visuals for the Infected creatures. He started by
trying to be creative and unique, working away from the typical
zombie design to create a new creature. He put together the
fungal design by studying different fungus and plants, taking
reference photos and making images of it growing out of
humans.
A work placement at a game studio would be a place to start, starting at the bottom and
working your way up over a few years of showing your skills.
Getting other artistic jobs that will show you have the skills required would help build a
portfolio, and show you have a good work ethic. When looking for Games Artists they will
look for people with a background in things like an illustration, Graphic Artist, or Comic Book
roles.