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How do concept artist get into larger careers with large companies, like Blizzard Entertainment or Disney?

I am a high school student, entering into college without a specific major in mind. I want to study psychology, neuroscience, and computer science. However, my greatest passion is sketching. I have started to build my portfolio with paintings and computer software. #computer-science #art #design #computer-art #conceptual-art

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Andy’s Answer

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Great question, Serena. For artists, your primary vehicle for getting jobs (even freelance ones) will be your portfolio and body of work. Education is definitely important and shows that you can work within schedules and complete assignments. Ultimately you will be hired based on the strength of your portfolio and how relevant your work is to the company for which you apply.


As a professional concept artist, you should be versatile so that if the company has various projects with different art styles you will be capable of working on any of them. Of course not every company will work in every art style, so it's also important to tailor your portfolio to the company. Pixar wouldn't necessarily need someone to create photorealistic zombies or monsters, for example. When I worked at EA, I had to create art in varying styles from The Simpsons Game to Dead Space and Dante's Inferno.


So if you want to work as a concept artist at one of the larger companies, make sure to work on your portfolio. that is not to say that you can't still study psychology, neuroscience, or computer science. I earned my undergraduate degree in biology before getting my master of fine arts degree.


The big take away is that you should continue to draw and improve your skills, put together portfolios appropriate to each company, and have fun. If you enjoy what you do (especially in art), it will show and it will be easier for others to work with you. I hope that helped.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for your time that was very detailed and specific. I will also continue to work hard. Serena
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Stacey’s Answer

I recommend looking into Laura Price's advice on Youtube. She didn't go to school for art at all and has worked at Disney and other large studios. Here's a playlist of hers to get started:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bExuaTeCPTA&list=PLbQpJgGBKo2Kg3TggoG6gP8EbY5jkXoMA

It's all about putting in the work and getting feedback on your work constantly and improving over going to a certain school. You get what you put into it, and will need to enjoy working outside of normal hours to improve your craft.

Hope this helps.
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Peter’s Answer

Companies like Disney and Pixar need a constant stream of talent to make animated movies and television. They tap into animation programs offered by community colleges such as Sheridan College (Oakville, Ontario, Canada) to find students and graduates. There are other schools like this across the USA and and other countries. It is worth looking into taking these programs as way of being noticed and finding out more about the industry opportunities.
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