Visual Development Artist

SUMMARY:  

Artists in this role will work closely with a hardworking team of directors, art directors, producers, and visual development artists to visually explore and design all aspects of feature animated film projects. These may include: sets, locations, props, characters, visual effects, color and overall style.  

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with Directors to translate the vision for the film from concept to finished presentation.  This is done through the use of drawings and paintings (including rough sketches, cleaned up renderings, tonals, sculpture and digital imagery).
• Create character and environment concepts, color scripts, color keys, lighting studies, mood paintings and production illustrations.
• Assist Art Director and Production Designer to bring the script to life.
• Implement feedback promptly and professionally.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must exhibit proficiency in drawing (including human and animal anatomy), design, perspective, composition, painting, lighting and color theory as it pertains to feature film design. 
• Must be comfortable working in a variety of styles - from "cartoony" to highly realistic.  
• Areas of expertise to include one or more of the following: set/location/props design; character/costume design; special effects design; and/or color styling.  
• A solid understanding of 2D to 3D translations and hands-on use of 2D or 3D tools in your design process is helpful. 
• Able to solve problems creatively.
• Manage time efficiently. 
• The ability to work creatively in a fast paced production environment under pressure.
• Self motivated, good communication skills, and an excellent teammate with a phenomenal outlook. 
• Working knowledge of software and hardware including Photoshop and Cintiq.

The anticipated base salary for this position is $51.61/hour to $81.75/hour. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement. The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors. 

To apply, please submit a resume and a link to your portfolio. Please make sure to include any passwords needed to review your work in your resume or cover letter.

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.

This position is covered by The Animation Guild.