Lead Concept Artist Job at Absurd Ventures in Santa Monica

As the Lead Concept Artist at Absurd Ventures, your primary responsibilities include creating detailed concept art for characters, environments, vehicles, and props. You will oversee the entire concept art pipeline, collaborating closely with the Art Director to establish and maintain the visual style of the project. This role also involves generating quick sketches and detailed illustrations to effectively communicate ideas, while working in concert with 3D Artists and Designers to ensure that concepts are accurately translated into the game. Your input will significantly influence brainstorming sessions and feedback processes, helping to iterate and improve designs.

To be a successful Lead Concept Artist at Absurd Ventures, you should have at least 5 years of experience in concept art within the video game industry. Strong proficiency in Photoshop and other digital painting tools is essential, alongside a deep understanding of color, composition, and perspective. Candidates must demonstrate a diverse portfolio showcasing various styles and subjects. While not mandatory, experience with 3D software like Blender or Maya and knowledge of traditional art techniques will be beneficial in this role.

The Lead Concept Artist at Absurd Ventures plays a crucial role in collaboration, working closely with 3D Artists, Animators, and Designers to ensure concepts are effectively realized in the game's development. Regular brainstorming sessions facilitate creative exchanges, while active feedback during the design process allows for continuous improvement and iteration. Your collaboration will also extend to assisting 3D Artists with paint-overs to refine and enhance their designs, ensuring a cohesive visual style throughout the project.

The working environment at Absurd Ventures for the Lead Concept Artist is dynamic and creative, situated in the vibrant area of Santa Monica, CA. This on-site position promotes teamwork and collaboration, as you will be surrounded by talented individuals who are passionate about their craft. Our office is conveniently located near downtown Santa Monica, making it easily accessible via metro and freeways, allowing you to enjoy the creative energy of this beautiful coastal city while contributing to exciting projects.

As a Lead Concept Artist at Absurd Ventures, you will receive a competitive compensation package that includes a base salary ranging from $150,000 to $185,000, depending on experience. In addition, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, sick leave, company holidays, parental leave, and health insurance coverage (medical, dental, and vision). Other benefits include life insurance, disability insurance, a 401(k) plan, and potential eligibility for bonuses and equity, making it a well-rounded package for our full-time employees.

When answering this question, focus on how you brainstorm ideas, develop concepts, and iterate based on feedback. Explain how collaboration with other departments shapes your process and how you stay inspired by industry trends and techniques.

Discuss your proficiency in digital tools like Photoshop and any other software you utilize. Emphasize how these tools enhance your creative process and allow you to produce high-quality work efficiently.

Talk about your communication strategy: regular meetings, sharing files, and giving detailed feedback. Highlighting your collaborative spirit is essential; it shows you're a team player committed to the quality of the final product.

Detail a specific project that had creative challenges, explaining how you approached problem-solving. Highlight your adaptability, available resources, and how you sought feedback from team members to improve the end result.

When delivering feedback, focus on clear, constructive suggestions while maintaining positivity. Share how you balance highlighting strengths and areas for improvement in a way that fosters a collaborative atmosphere.

Discuss the types of references you collect, such as real-world examples, existing artwork, and media that inspire you. Mention how these references help inform your creativity and enhance the realism of your artwork.

You might describe your methods for staying updated, such as following industry publications, participating in online communities, or attending industry events. This showcases your commitment to continual learning and professional growth.

Share any background you have in traditional art forms, discussing how they inform your digital work. Highlight the advantages this experience gives you in terms of skills like understanding light, shadow, and form.

Express your passion for creativity and the thrill of shaping the artistic make-up of games. Talk about your enthusiasm for world-building and character development, and how you can contribute to meaningful player experiences.

Reflect on what draws you to Absurd Ventures, such as their innovative approach to media, new IP creation, or your admiration for their projects. Articulating this shows that you are genuinely interested in the company and can see yourself as part of their vision.