We often get asked how old is ‘too old’ to get into visual effects, animation, or video games. The honest answer is that there is no invisible age barrier. The real question you should be asking yourself is - am I driven enough for a creative career? We delve into why it’s not too late to pursue your dream of working in the film and games industry, see how changing careers later in life can actually be an advantage, and meet artists who are living proof that you're not too old to start a creative career. You are not alone in changing careers later in life If you’re asking “Am I too old to be a ..read more

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more sophisticated and regulations struggle to keep up, global concern has arisen about its place in the creative industries. People have begun questioning the ethics of AI art and what it means for those working or pursuing a creative career, particularly digital painting. How will AI impact artists such as digital illustrators and concept artists? The ever-evolving technological landscape shows no signs of slowing down, so, as an artist, it's vital to build the skills that will allow you to adapt to whatever comes next. We explore what AI art is, the t ..read more

KitBash3D’s Mission to Minerva Challenge wrapped up in December, with the winners announced earlier this month. Following the competition closely, CG Spectrum was wowed by the creative stories told through such a high caliber of concept and in-motion work — futuristic settlements sprawling across extraterrestrial landscapes draped in dramatic light and shadow, with fantastical creatures lurking in between! Here are some of Mission to Minerva's impressive stats: 1 Kit containing 60 models, 63 materials, 459 textures, and 648 meshes 52 days 32,000 artists from 174 countries joined in the fun 5 ..read more

When Alan Robinson studied the Nuke Compositing Course at CG Spectrum, he not only acquired the skills to build a successful career in VFX, he also gained access to the school’s global online community filled with talented students, alumni, and mentors studying and working in film and games—something that would continue to foster his creative pursuits years after completing his studies. After graduating, and a successful career working as a compositor on blockbuster films and TV series, including The Irishman, Spider-man: No Way Home, and The Righteous Gemstones, Alan was ready for a ..read more

In film and games, a well-designed character compels their audience to feel invested in the unfolding story. These are often memorable characters who are instantly recognizable by their clothing, how they enter a room, and their subtle quirks and idiosyncrasies. Character design can include everything from how a character looks and dresses to how they move and the emotions they exhibit.   Here’s what you need to know about the creative world of character design.  What is character design? Character design in film and games is a form of concept art and involves visually defining ..read more

You're probably familiar with video game splash art, movie posters, comic book art, and book cover illustrations. Did you know these are all types of digital painting? Digital painting is a catch-all term that encompasses many different forms of digitally created art, such as concept art and digital illustration. Combining traditional art with modern technology, digital painting is more convenient than using pen, paint, and paper, making it an attractive career path for artists. To learn more about this diverse art form and how to get started as a digital painter, read on!  What is d ..read more

Concept art is a creative and challenging career. Concept artists have opportunities to work on some incredible projects in the entertainment industry and often get to witness their drawn concepts translated into real-life or digital 3D characters, props, vehicles, sets, and environments! While there are many fantastic job opportunities as a concept artist, there’s also a lot of competition, even for entry-level positions. So how do you get ahead?  Having an impressive concept art portfolio is integral to getting noticed by potential employers. We’ll take you through some of the things yo ..read more

Working from home as a concept artist or digital illustrator can sometimes be a tough gig! In this video, Concept Artist Brandon Reimchen shares his must-have soft and technical skills to help you stay productive and creative while working (or studying!). Brandon's top technical tips include things like developing your life-drawing and painting skills, drawing from reference, challenging yourself to become a better artist, not overcomplicating your work, as well as observing other artists and what they’re producing. There are soft skills to master too, especially if working with clients or you ..read more

If you have visual talent and want a career in design you may consider the role of an illustrator your ideal job. So what qualifications do you need to be an illustrator? To become an illustrator we recommend that you take formal training in illustration. This will help advance your chances of being employed to create work for video games, films, and publishing. Having a basic understanding of professional techniques, character designs, and working to a brief are vital to becoming a professional illustrator. Visual talent Needless to say, you need to have innate affinities for the visual arts ..read more

This month, we're featuring our amazing Concept Art and Illustration Teaching Assistants: Penny Gaubatz, Molly Brown, and Niwa Jongkind! If you're new to CG Spectrum and haven't had met this trio of awesome, they're here to support you throughout your studies, give inspiration, and ensure you get the most out of your time at CG Spectrum! Hi Molly, Penny and Niwa! Tell us about your journey into art and what inspires your creations. MB: I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember. The moment I could hold a pencil is when I started trying to make 'art'. From a very young age, my family ..read more