Career Blog Post: Concept Artists

Concept artists are responsible for designing visual foundations for characters/settings/props for movies, shows, games, etc. They work with the director to establish the overall style/mood for the visual direction of the project. Nowadays, most concept art is done digitally.

Required credentials to become a concept artist are a high school diploma or GED and a strong (digital)art portfolio. Formal education is good, but not required if the portfolio carries enough weight.

College majors that provide training for this career include concept art, illustration, animation, digital arts, game design, and fine arts. (Top) Schools that offer good programs in this area are Ringling College of Art and Design, Savannah College of Art and Design, California Institute of the Arts, School of Visual Arts, ArtCenter College of Design, and Gnomon School of Visual Effects.