CG Environment Artist - Laika

General Summary
The CG Environment Artist is responsible for generating 2D & 3D backgrounds, layouts and CG environments to establish a cohesive digital world for a stop motion animated film, under the guidance of the Production Designer, VFX Supervisor and Lead VFX Designer.

Job Functions

• Combine painting skills and knowledge of photography, practical modeling, digital modeling and design to create 2D and 3D environments in animation software.
• Visualize, build, incorporate and refine 2D matte paintings and 3D landscapes while ensuring cohesion with the Production Design and Look of Show.
• Obtain a level of realism based on the art direction of the project.
• Create photorealistic paintings and elements that match concept art using 2D and 3D tools and techniques including camera setup, modeling for projection, camera animation, projection setup, image re-projection, atmospherics and light passes.
• Create digital matte paintings that meet creative direction using live action elements, still photography, concept art, rendered CG elements and digitally painted elements.
• Perform tasks related to integrating imagery into shots, preserving a unified sense of lighting, perspective and color; and build assets, as needed.
• Contribute to the development of visual ideas that enhance the story by collaborating with Set Designers, Layout Artists, Camera Team and others.
• Incorporate environments into shot designs to inform camera team setup and Art Department fabrication.
• Research references and resources for creation of environment elements while incorporating existing storyboards, concept art, drawings, VFX assets, etc.
• Participate in review sessions with the Production Designer and other Artists on a consistent basis.

Qualifications

• 3+ years’ experience designing CG environments and backgrounds for photorealistic feature films and television.
• Excellent sense of color, lighting, texture, perspective, and composition.
• Strong understanding of geography and landscape.
• Strong aesthetic sense and ability to interpret the unique 'style' of the film into 2D & 3D designs.
• Strong knowledge of 3D Development software - Z Brush, Mari, Maya, Terragen, World Creator, Houdini and Unreal.
• Strong knowledge of Photoshop and Nuke.
• Ability to take direction and work both collaboratively and independently as a creative problem-solver.
• Deadline driven; able to multi-task, adapt, and work well under pressure.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk; stand; sit; use hands to operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; talk or hear both in person and by telephone. The employee must lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee works under typical office conditions and is exposed to variable indoor temperatures. The noise level is usually quiet or moderate.

Location
On-Site in Hillsboro, OR

Salary
Salary is commensurate with skills and experience.

Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

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