- Training 3D Animation & FX
The surfacing artist adds texture and colour to 3D characters, environments and props in an animated function to enhance their visual appeal according to the visual style defined by the film’s art director, production designer and director.
THE TASKS OF THE SURFACING ARTIST
After the modelling stage, it’s time for surfacing (defining the materials and textures that will dress a 3D volume), which precedes the lighting and final rendering stage.
The surfacing artist is responsible for complex and technically demanding surfacing configurations. They ‘paint’, as it were, but digitally, using complex equations and specialised software.
They work closely with the modelling and lighting departments to ensure that surfacing requirements are met in parallel with the needs of the other departments.
In effect, surfacing artists interact with their mouse and their screen.
HIS EXPERTISE, HIS SKILLS
Surfacing artists obviously master specialist software (Body Paint, Maya, Renderman, Zbrush, Mudbox, Photoshop, etc.)
Being a surfacing artist requires creativity, an open mind and a good eye for design elements such as detail, scale, composition, colour and shape.
They must produce consistent, high-quality work while maintaining a steady flow of assignments and meeting strict deadlines.
Surfacing Artists interact with their mouse and screen
They create different visual styles as required.
Knowledge of modelling and lighting/shading is an asset, as surfacing artists work in tandem with the production team and respect the implementation of the pipeline necessary for the smooth production of an animated film. This calls for good interpersonal skills, to ensure that the work is both efficient and effective.
The surfacing artist must work with the lighting and shading artists, as well as the artists in charge of look development, to create a range of looks and texture styles.
All in all, solid interpersonal skills, a sense of organisation and time management, and the ability to solve problems independently are real assets in this specialisation.
CAREER AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Surfacing artists are in demand. They usually work in animation studios. They may also have the opportunity to work for independent studios.
After a few years’ experience, surfacing artists may consider moving on to positions with greater responsibility, such as supervisor or other management positions within the VFX department.
