3D Character Artists create 3D models of characters for films and video games. Models are often based on original concept art.

Their tasks can also include creating storyboards, scenery, as well as adding shading and texture to visuals. The Character Artists work closely with creative and technical teams to drive the visual quality of the game and to maintain a consistent character style. In the competitive gaming market players now expect high standard graphics, it is up to the character artist to deliver on the overall artistic quality of the game. 

Character Artists for computer games draw up the visual elements of as briefed by the Art Director and Lead Character Artist. They create illustrations of characters, vehicles, environment, weapons, props, etc from the original concept artist’s sketches.

Character Artists in film create the 3D characters, creatures or objects that are integrated into live-action. Their work primarily takes place during the post-production process, but sketches and concept art will be developed from pre-production stages as part of the film or series’ production design.

Role and Responsibilities

Character Artists transform 2D illustrations into 3D models with a skeletal framework, functioning limbs and finished texture.

The responsibilities of a 3D Character Artist can include:

• Liaising with art director and lead character artist on the style, scope and polish of work
• Liaising with the director, cinematographer, design department to fit the characters into the live-action sequences
• Researching reference materials for aesthetics and genre of game, film or animation
• Working with post-production and visual effects teams for seamless integration with footage
• Conducting an exhaustive revision process fleshing out concept art to final approved artwork
• Creating 3D versions of all artwork, including rigging, working out points of movement of axes, adding skin and texture
• Working to production schedules 
• Maintaining production documents
• Curating asset libraries
• Taking into account budget constraints
• Assisting in problem solving, suggesting best practices and seeking out new software, technologies and resources that will aid effective workflows
• Creating prototypes from which final animations will be based
• Working with animators to deliver effective models that move and perform believably

3D Character Artist Software and Tools:

The software required for 3D Character Artist:

Character Artists work exclusively with computer software:

• Maya
• 3D Studio Max
• Mudbox
• Zbrush
• Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator
• Substance Painter
• Houdini

Skills Required:

The skills required for a 3D Character Artist include a high level of design ability and a strong understanding of the film or game production pipeline. 3D Character artists require these skills:

• Experience in digital sculpting, modeling, UV mapping, texturing
• Excellent understanding of shading, lighting, structure, texturing and silhouette
• Vision to take simple 2D sketch to fully realized 3D model
• Skilled in hard-surface modeling
• Understanding of mesh topology and edge loops 
• High level of artistic skills, strong sense of design
• Knowledge of anatomy - proportions, muscle and skeletal structures
• Understanding of form, shape language and color
• Ability to work from reference materials such as photography or concept art
• Good time management skills, ability to meet deadlines
• Strong technical skills, knowledge of industry-standard software
• Good communication skills, ability to work with multiple departments on all their needs and constraints
• Specific to Video Game Character Artists: passion for playing video games, knowledge of various game genres and trends

Average Salary:

The average salary for a clean up artist ranges between £40,042and £70,277.