Yariv Newman is a highly respected concept artist and visual effects veteran whose career journey embodies a singular philosophy: to be a producer, not just a consumer. In this episode, Yariv walks us through his early fascination with video games and movies, and how his mother's encouragement set him on an unconventional path. He recounts starting his journey in the mailroom at Digital Domain, where his innate curiosity quickly drew him into the world of CG and the then-emerging LightWave 3D software, transforming him from an observer into a creator.We dive deep into the moments that redefined his career, including his formative experience at Art Center College of Design and meeting influential figures like Taron, who introduced him to game-changing techniques like subdivision surface modeling and ZBrush. The conversation also explores Yariv's extensive career in the gaming industry, from working on titles like "Heroes of Might and Magic" to navigating diverse roles in design and visual effects. We gain his expert perspective on the evolution of design tools, the profound impact of AI and machine learning, and the critical ethical considerations shaping the future of creativity.Yariv also reflects on the essential mindset for thriving as a designer, emphasizing the paramount importance of focusing on innovative ideas over mere technical consumption, and understanding the crucial business side of the creative process. He offers invaluable advice for aspiring designers: don't be intimidated by others' achievements; instead, concentrate on cultivating and effectively marketing your unique vision. The episode culminates with Yariv's insights into the cyclical nature of the industry and the enduring power of talent and creativity as true drivers of innovation.Whether you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned designer, or simply someone looking to shift from passive consumption to impactful creation, this conversation with Yariv Newman offers powerful lessons on career resilience, strategic thinking, and the transformative potential of embracing a producer's mindset.
Yale Stewart is a celebrated webcomic artist, widely known for his groundbreaking work on JL8, where he uniquely reimagines iconic superheroes as children. With a career marked by creativity, resilience, and a deep, lifelong passion for comics, Yale has carved out a distinctive space in the digital art world, also creating projects like Forward the Horizon and contributing to publishers like Marvel and Image.In this episode, Yale walks us through his fascinating journey into the world of comics, tracing his origins from early childhood doodles and his pivotal introduction to comics in first grade. He candidly discusses his key influences, including legendary artists like Joe Madureira and John Romita Jr., and how they helped shape his distinctive artistic style. Yale also shares the compelling story behind his unique approach to depicting child superheroes, revealing how this beloved style emerged unexpectedly, out of sheer necessity.We dive deep into Yale's creative process, exploring his preference for traditional art methods in a digital age, and the constant challenges of maintaining creativity and productivity, especially when facing personal hardships. Yale opens up with profound vulnerability about dealing with loss and mental health struggles, and how these experiences have profoundly impacted his artistic output and drive.Yale also reflects on his career path, balancing his acclaimed personal projects with client commissions, and shares his insightful perspective on what true success means to him—emphasizing personal pride in his work over external validation. The discussion culminates with a look into Yale's future aspirations and his unwavering commitment to his craft, even amidst life's complexities.Whether you're an aspiring webcomic artist, someone navigating creative blocks, or simply a fan eager to understand the mind behind iconic characters, this conversation is a powerful exploration of passion, resilience, and the enduring spirit of creation through all of life's seasons.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yalestewart?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MThiMTA2Y3Vqa3Nkbg==JL8 Comic on Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/jl8comic
Josh Harnack is a surrealist artist whose journey began with a unique mission: breathing new life into forgotten paintings. From his early days as a doodling child to the astonishing discovery of a warehouse brimming with 6,000 discarded artworks, Josh has cultivated a truly distinctive approach to creation. His art is a profound meditation on authenticity, reinvention, and the inherent value found in unexpected places.
In this episode, Josh walks us through his extraordinary artistic journey, discussing the philosophy behind his unofficial collaborations with forgotten artists and the profound joy he finds in revamping old paintings. He shares his evolution from childhood doodles to a professional artist, and how he navigates the delicate balance between boundless creativity and the essential business side of being an artist.
We dive deep into Josh's experiences with building a personal brand, the fluidity of branding across different artistic mediums, and the emotional challenges artists face in defining success. He vulnerably shares the profound impact of his cancer diagnosis on his creative process, emphasizing how life's fragility ignited an even greater drive to create, highlighting the significance of physical mediums in an increasingly digital world.
Josh also reflects on the essence of artistic creation itself. He discusses the critical importance of embracing failure, the power of experimentation, and the fundamental human need for connection in the creative process, ultimately revealing how success is a constantly evolving concept tied to personal fulfillment and growth.
Whether you're an artist grappling with creative blocks, seeking to define your own brand, or looking for inspiration to overcome life's challenges, this conversation is a powerful exploration of artistic resilience, the transformative power of perspective, and the unbreakable spirit of creation.
Website: https://www.harnack.ca/?srsltid=AfmBOorutGPJHKhoiuoW84uuIQ9UwSJofq4roWpe5FsCLWaiPFRzh4as
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harnackart?igsh=MWg5NDl1cG1raXkzaA==
Mike Shirdan is a digital artist and animator known for his unique fusion of 2D and 3D techniques. With a truly self-taught background, Mike has carved out a distinctive space in the ever-evolving world of animation. His work reflects not just technical skill, but a deep authenticity and a relentless pursuit of creative vision.In this episode, Mike walks us through his journey into animation, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped his unconventional path. He shares how he navigated a self-taught background, the challenges of maintaining quality in a saturated content market, and the delicate balance between his personal passion projects and professional opportunities.We dive deep into Mike's creative processes, exploring his signature fusion of 2D and 3D animation, and how he navigates the inevitable creative blocks. He shares invaluable insights on networking, the power of personal branding in the digital age, and his experiences with feedback, both giving and receiving, as a tool for growth.Mike also reflects on the evolution of animation as a medium, the burgeoning role of AI in creative work, and how his personal projects have profoundly shaped his understanding of success. He discusses his aspirations for the future of his work and the importance of staying true to one's authentic voice in a dynamic industry.Whether you're an aspiring animator, a seasoned digital artist, or simply someone passionate about creative authenticity – this conversation is a masterclass in self-driven artistry, innovative technique, and building a thriving career on your own terms.
Matthew Eng is the Lead Art Director for Disney's Lorcana TCG, a role many creatives dream of. His impressive portfolio includes work with industry giants like EA Sports and Hasbro, spanning across video games, toys, and card games. But behind the highlight reel of blockbuster titles and captivating art direction is a story of disciplined evolution, understanding core design principles, and a relentless pursuit of impact beyond the canvas.In this episode, Matthew walks us through his artistic journey, from drawing comic book characters in high school to becoming a pivotal creative force in the entertainment industry. He shares pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his transition from 3D animation to concept art, the importance of being prepared for unforeseen opportunities, and the delicate balance between high-profile professional work and personal passion projects.We delve into the nuanced differences between being an artist and an art director, the unique art style of Lorcana, and Matthew's personal preferences for traditional versus digital art techniques. He shares insights into the evolution of his own artistry, emphasizing the profound significance of environment design in storytelling and the mastery of color theory.Matthew also reflects on his definition of good design (one that meets its intended goals), the joy of seeing others enjoy his work as his personal measure of success, and the essential skills he believes future creators need. He stresses the critical importance of storytelling through visuals, color, and cinematography, and shares how immersive experiences are key to brand expression across diverse entertainment mediums.Whether you're an aspiring concept artist, a seasoned art director, or simply fascinated by the craft of visual storytelling – this conversation is a masterclass in creative discipline, career evolution, and finding true fulfillment in the world of entertainment design.
Rodolfo Silva is a 3D environment technical artist and the newest ZBrush trainer at Maxon. Now traveling the world and teaching artists how to unlock the full power of ZBrush, his success story is clear. But behind the incredible career is a journey fueled by obsession and defined by a single, desperate decision: betting it all on a digital sculpting class.In this episode, Rodolfo walks us through his artistic journey, from being a passionate gamer to a leading voice in the 3D art community. He shares the pivotal moments that solidified his commitment to a career in 3D art, despite the challenges he faced in his education and the overwhelming dynamics of the industry.We dive deep into Rodolfo's experiences, exploring the importance of networking at events like THU, the pursuit of mastery in ZBrush, and the critical role of environment art in video games. He opens up about battling burnout, wrestling with impostor syndrome, and why finding support during challenging times is essential for longevity in creative fields.Rodolfo also reflects on the changing job market in the video game industry, the significance of reconnecting with the joy of art, and why pursuing passion over monetary gain is the real key to building a thriving career without a backup plan.Whether you’re an artist trying to break in, overcome challenges, or simply reignite your creative fire this conversation is a powerful reminder that obsession, resilience, and a willingness to bet on yourself can carve a path where there was no map.
Andres Salvatierra, known online as Jase_3D_artist, is a 3D character artist whose portfolio includes work with global giants like Supercell, DreamWorks, and Epic Games on titles like Fortnite. But behind the highlight reel is a story of navigating burnout, culture shock, and the harsh realities of working in high-pressure creative industries.In this episode, Andy walks us through his artistic journey, from his first job in Korea to moving all over the globe to work in the animation and gaming industry. He shares how his early dreams of working at Pixar evolved as he faced toxic work environments, career missteps, and the mental toll of studio life.We explore the challenges of adapting to international studio culture, the importance of trusting your gut in client relationships, and how personal values can guide project choices. Andy opens up about work environments, invoicing mistakes, and how mentorship and feedback helped him grow from junior roles to leadership positions.He also reflects on the balance between paid gigs and passion projects, the impact of AI on the art world, and what success looks like when happiness, not clout, comes first.Whether you’re breaking into the industry or trying to stay sane within it, this conversation is a powerful reminder that creative careers are marathons, not sprints. And that fulfillment starts with protecting your peace.
Michael McMaster is the man behind the machine of the most beloved droids in the Star Wars universe, working as a professional droid wrangler for Disney and Lucasfilm. In this special May 4th episode, Michael unveils his remarkable journey from childhood robot enthusiast to creating and operating iconic characters that have captivated millions. We explore the intricate blend of art and science that brings these mechanical beings to life, from puppeteering techniques that convey emotion to the cutting-edge technology that powers their movements. Michael provides fascinating insights into the collaborative process of droid creation, the evolution of animatronics, and how 3D printing has revolutionized the field. He candidly discusses the challenges of creative burnout, the importance of mentorship, and his personal definition of success in this unique profession. Whether you're a Star Wars fanatic, robotics enthusiast, or simply curious about how movie magic happens, this conversation offers an unprecedented look behind the curtain at the human element that breathes life into mechanical characters. Discover the force behind the droids that have defined generations of storytelling! Stay connected with Michael's work and projects through his social media channels Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcmaster_robots/Michael's Website (for business): https://mcmasterrobots.com/
Neville Page is a legendary concept designer renowned for his incredible work in the film and entertainment industry. In this episode, Neville shares his journey into the world of design, highlighting the early support of his artistic family and the pivotal moments that solidified his career path.We delve into the fascinating aspects of his creative process, the importance of collaboration, and the evolution of concept design in the digital age. Neville offers valuable perspectives on navigating client relationships, the balance between artistic vision and practical application, and the constant need for adaptation and learning in a dynamic industry.Beyond his impressive filmography, Neville also touches upon his personal projects, including an Kickstarter campaign for his "Beauty in the Beast" book, hinting at potential educational content and future reveals.Whether you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned creative, or simply a fan of captivating design, this conversation offers a unique glimpse into the mind of a visionary artist and provides valuable insights into the world of concept design for film and entertainment.Stay connected with Neville's work and upcoming projects! You can find him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nevillepage/?hl=enhis website: https://www.nevillepage.me/and the Kickstarter: https://www.nevillepagekickstarter.com/
David Nakayama is a legendary comic book cover artist known for his bold, vibrant style and unforgettable covers. David’s work has graced the covers of Marvel and DC, with standout projects like Catwoman, Wonder Woman, and X-Men.In this episode, David shares his journey from aspiring artist to comic book icon. Breaking down:The challenges he faced in breaking into the industry.How he developed his signature style. And why excellence is the only way to stand out in a crowded, competitive field.David also opens up about the rise of social media and its impact on artists’ careers, offering advice on how to build your personal brand and create art that demands attention. Plus, we dive into the importance of perseverance, constant growth, and the joy that comes from seeing your work in print.Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to level up your skills, this conversation is packed with insights from one of the most respected artists in the comic book world.David Nakayama’s work and social media: https://davidnakayama.com/https://www.instagram.com/davidnakayama/?hl=en
Omer Erlich is a professional 3D artist and VFX generalist whose career spans film, games, and emerging tech. With credits on major blockbusters like Guardians of the Galaxy and Justice League, Omer’s path has been anything but linear.
In this episode, Omer shares how constantly pushing beyond his comfort zone, from traditional art to 3D modeling, VFX, and mobile games, opened doors to some of the biggest studios in the industry.
He breaks down the technical and creative skills that helped him stand out, what it’s really like working on Marvel and DC films, and why learning outside of school was just as important as formal education.
Omer also talks about navigating the brutal realities of the entertainment industry, the challenge of staying relevant as tech evolves, and how embracing change helped him build a sustainable creative career.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist thinking about your next move, this episode is packed with honest insight and practical advice from someone who’s made it happen.
Omer's Website: https://www.omererlich.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omer-erlich-b46051148/
George Zaky is a 3D character artist, known for his clean blockouts, stylized designs, and fast-growing presence in the digital art world. After 3 years of civil engineering school, George made the bold leap into 3D art, and hasn’t looked back.In this episode, George shares how he taught himself ZBrush and Blender from scratch, what he learned from mentorship with Shane Olson, and why he believes blockouts are the secret sauce of great character design.He talks about building a business around his art, the challenges of working in the 3D art industry, and his plans to expand his business into 3D printing and selling STL files.George also opens up about finding your niche, what success really means as an artist, and why he’d choose games over animation any day.Whether you’re just starting out or trying to build a brand around your 3D work, George’s journey is packed with real-world insight and creative fuel.George was also generous enough to offer a 30% OFF discount code for his ArtStation and Gumroad products, valid for 10 days starting April 14.ArtStation: https://www.artstation.com/georgezaky108ArtStation Store: https://georgezaky108.artstation.com/storeGumRoad: https://georgezaky108.gumroad.com/Use code: GZR-MOD3D30 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zaky.george
Shane Olson is a professional character artist best known for his stylized 3D work. Shane is the founder of the 3D Character Workshop, where he’s taught countless students how to bring characters to life.In this episode, Shane shares insights from a career that spans major studios like Disney Interactive, revealing what separates great stylized characters from forgettable ones, and why 80% of the work happens before you ever add detail.He talks about the critical importance of the blockout stage, the unique challenges of translating 2D designs into 3D, and how posing and silhouette play a bigger role than most artists realize.Shane also opens up about the volatility of the entertainment industry, his pivot to education and entrepreneurship, and why now might be the best time to go independent.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your stylized work, this conversation offers both technical insight and creative perspective from one of the best in the game.Shane's Course can be found here: https://www.3dcharacterworkshop.com/
Ross Venokur is a writer/director with three decades of experience in the film industry. After years working in Hollywood he pivoted from traditional screenwriting to pioneering independent animation projects. In this episode, he shares insights from his 15-years of focus on animation, discussing how landmark films like 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse' have transformed the industry's perception of animation as a medium. Ross reveals the creative freedom found in independent production, the importance of creating quality content for younger audiences, and how technology has democratized filmmaking. He offers valuable perspective on building direct relationships with audiences, navigating the business challenges of creative work, and maintaining meaningful partnerships in a competitive industry. Whether you're an aspiring animator, filmmaker, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation provides honest wisdom about defining success beyond financial metrics and finding fulfillment in the collaborative process of bringing stories to life. #animation #writing #film
Lilia Doytchinova and Tiffany Downey take you behind the scenes of their independent horror film "The Haunting of Hollywood" in this captivating conversation about filmmaking and personal journey. From Lilia's experiences at USC and working on major productions such as "The Expendables" to Tiffany's evolution as an actress, they reveal how their film explores the psychological struggles and pressures faced by artists in Hollywood. The pair discusses their creative approach to horror as a vehicle for expressing anxiety, the delicate balance between structured directing and intuition, and how their personal experiences with mental health shaped the film's narrative.They offer candid insights into the challenges of navigating the industry as women, the significance of film festivals for indie projects, and why completing a film represents a triumph of perseverance. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, actor, or fan of psychological horror, this episode illuminates how independent cinema creates space for authentic storytelling about the human condition.
Juan Higuera Gomez is a concept designer for video games, whose expertise spans environment design for both fantasy and sci-fi gaming worlds. In this episode, he shares his journey through the evolving landscape of game development, offering insights into the delicate balance between artistic passion and professional demands. He candidly discusses the shift in gaming from passion-driven projects to profit-focused development, the challenges facing both self-taught artists and formally educated creators, and how global talent is reshaping the industry.Juan explores how environment design tells stories through immersive spaces, the crucial differences between functional and purely aesthetic design choices, and the distinct approaches needed for sci-fi versus fantasy worlds. Whether you're an aspiring concept artist, game developer, or creative professional, this conversation reveals the importance of putting love into your work, the impact of unique artistic vision, and how genuine creativity remains the element that AI cannot replicate.#conceptart #gamedevelopment #environmentdesign #gaming #creativeprocess #scifi #fantasy #videogames
Anthony Watts is a senior sculptor for miniatures and collectibles.Anthony transformed his passion for Warhammer and fantasy figures into a thriving career. From his unexpected transition from web design to 3D sculpting, he shares the intricate journey of creating high-quality statues, action figures, and miniatures that captivate adult collectors. In this episode, he reveals the complex processes behind designing articulated figures, the challenges of packaging development, and how nostalgia drives the modern collectibles market. Anthony offers unique insights into the balance between commercial projects and personal passion work, the impact of 3D printing on the miniature gaming community, and his involvement with iconic franchises including a notable Baldur's Gate 3 collaboration. Whether you're a collector, aspiring designer, or gaming enthusiast, this conversation explores how storytelling, artistry, and engineering converge in the creation of memorable toys and miniatures that bring fantasy worlds to life!
Stephen Anderson is a versatile creative whose journey has taken him from prestigious roles from Disney Imagineering, to Blizzard Entertainment, and Netflix plus so much more!Starting with a degree in animation from BYU, where he mastered both 2D and 3D techniques, Stephen developed a distinctive style by pushing the boundaries of character proportions and embracing experimentation. In this episode, Stephen shares candid insights about his time designing theme park attractions, creating for legendary gaming franchises at Blizzard, and his experimentation in collectible toy design.The conversation explores the nuances of creative freedom across different industries, the delicate balance between artistic expression and player/visitor experience, and practical advice for aspiring character designers. Stephen opens up about the importance of community support during career transitions, and how teaching others has refined his own artistic approach.Whether you're an animator, game designer, collector, or creative professional navigating industry shifts, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on developing a unique artistic voice, adapting to an evolving landscape with AI and indie studios, and defining success beyond professional achievements. Stephen's journey illustrates how networking, consistent practice, and embracing both creative and business challenges can lead to a fulfilling career in the arts.#animation #disneyimagineering #blizzardentertainment #characterdesign #gameart #collectibles #creativejourney #themeparkdesign #artisticstyle #animation3d #creativeindustry #netflix
Stern aka The Sterninator is a rising YouTube creator who transformed his passion for Pokemon and tabletop gaming into a thriving online community. Starting as an enthusiast experimenting with content creation, he successfully transitioned to full-time YouTube within six months through consistent posting, strategic niche selection, and genuine community engagement.In this episode, Stern shares the realities of content creation, from recording challenges to avoiding creative burnout, while offering practical insights for aspiring creators. The conversation explores how embracing failure, maintaining authenticity, and focusing on emotional well-being have shaped his success. Whether you're a content creator, gaming enthusiast, or creative professional, this discussion reveals valuable lessons about turning passion into a sustainable career while building meaningful connections within the creator community.From Pokemon aesthetics to animation crossovers, Stern demonstrates how unconventional paths and diverse interests can lead to unique opportunities in the digital space. Join us for an honest conversation about the journey from hobbyist to professional creator, packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to make their mark in the online world.#ContentCreation #YouTube #Gaming #Pokemon #CreativeJourney #DigitalArt #Community #CreatorEconomy #TabletopGaming #Animation
Michael Papaeleftheriou is a passionate independent filmmaker whose work explores human connection through compelling storytelling and visual artistry. From writing gripping screenplays to directing atmospheric horror films, his journey showcases the delicate balance between creative vision and practical filmmaking. In this episode, Michael opens up about developing his unique voice as a director, navigating the challenging world of film festivals, and building meaningful collaborations that bring stories to life. He shares candid insights about the filmmaking process, practical advice for emerging creators, and thoughtful reflections on sustaining creativity in an evolving industry. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, storyteller, or simply curious about the creative process, this conversation reveals how determination, artistic integrity, and adaptability can forge a path in independent cinema.
