About The Role
We are looking for an experienced Character Sculpt Artist who's focus will be primarily on creating detailed, stylised concepts based on concept 2D designs or 3D sculpts which set the style, whilst also meeting production deadlines and being able to accommodate and deliver on the brief and feedback from our Directors and Clients.
This is a part-time opportunity, working 13 days across the month of June 2024.We are very happy to discuss flexible, hybrid and remote working options for all our vacancies. Day to Day:
1. Interpreting 2D character designs and concept art into 3D concept sculpts. Ensuring consistency and faithfulness to the original design while considering the requirements for taking it into a three dimensional translation.
2. Delivering strong character posing and expressions on the 3D sculpt using Zbrush.
3. Using digital sculpting tools within ZBrush to create high-resolution 3D models of characters in a quick turnaround process.
4. Joining topology discussions and understanding retopology, when necessary, to modify design decisions on the sculpt.
5. Working closely with other members of the creative team including art directors, concept artists, animators and riggers, ensuring that character models meet the project's artistic and technical requirements.
6. Actively participating in feedback sessions and revisions, incorporating feedback from supervisors and team members to refine and improve character sculpts throughout the development process.
7. Manage your time effectively to meet project deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards for character models.
8. Staying updated on the latest trends, techniques, and tools in character sculpting for animation. Continuously improve skills through self-learning and experimentation.
9. Maintaining organised files, including versions, iterations, and supporting notes for future reference.
About You
Must Have:
10. Excellent understanding of 2D and 3D design.
11. Extensive experience with ZBrush, along with proficiency in other 3D Sculpting Software.
12. Strong understanding of stylised human and creature anatomy, as well as a keen eye for form, proportion, and silhouette.
13. Proven experience in creating high-quality 3D character models for animation, with a strong portfolio demonstrating modelling skills and artistic ability.
14. An understanding of Animation Principles; such as squash and stretch, anticipation, and timing, and how they influence character design and modelling.
15. Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with artists and other team members.
16. Ability to adapt to different art styles and project requirements, while also bringing creative ideas and solutions to the table.
17. Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work under tight deadlines.
18. Ability to take design from ambiguous or rough form to full design implementation in 3D.
19. Creative problem solving skills, able to identify potential issues and put forward solutions.
Bonus Points:
20. Retopology is not a focus for this role but a bonus to demonstrate.
21. Previous experience within Animation, VFX or Games industry
22. A solid understanding of Substance Painter and Photoshop
About Us
Blue Zoo is a leading animation studio in the UK, with a world-class reputation as the go-to place for creating bold, fun and characterful animation. Established in London in 2000, the studio has grown to become the largest dedicated CG animation studio in the UK, picking up a shelf full of BAFTAs, an Annie and an Emmy along the way!
We couldn’t be prouder that Blue Zoo is the first major animation studio in the world to receive B Corp certification. We’ve been independently certified by B Lab, a non-profit organisation who award the B Corp certification. The certification verifies companies who are working to improve the lives of employees as well as industries as a whole. The certification process involves over 170 rigorous metrics to improve the lives of our staff, customers, suppliers, and the local community, ensuring we are not just saying we are ethical with empty gestures, but independently evidencing it.
We are going through an exciting period of growth and are building a studio that is full of amazingly talented, happy artists, making work they are proud of, which in turn makes a small contribution to a happier world. Blue Zoo believes that a healthy balance in our lives - whatever our situation - is key to supporting the wellbeing of our staff. We offer flexible working to support this.
We look for people who have expertise, enthusiasm and are motivated to make things better. You’ll work alongside a talented and diverse group of people who respect each other's differences and seek to understand and embrace fresh perspectives.
What we’ve got for you:
23. Winner of Best Places to Work in TV 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2024.
24. Inclusive self-funded shorts programme.
25. Many fun in person and remote social events throughout the year.
26. Bi-monthly employee feedback and engagement programme.
27. Comprehensive benefits package, including loads of discounts and offers.
28. Online wellbeing programme.
29. Profit share (for employees who have been with us for 2+ years).