Art Director - Animation Studio

About the Role

Our client, a thriving animation studio in Milton Keynes , is seeking a creative and inspiring Art Director to lead the visual development of its animated projects. You will guide a team of talented artists, establishing the overall look and feel of productions, from initial concept to final rendering. This role requires a strong artistic vision, exceptional leadership skills, and a deep understanding of animation pipelines and aesthetics. If you are passionate about building visually compelling animated worlds and guiding artistic teams to success, this is an exceptional opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain the artistic vision and stylistic consistency for animated projects throughout the production pipeline.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of concept artists, background artists, and animators, providing clear direction and constructive feedback.
• Develop and oversee the creation of character designs, environment designs, storyboards, and color scripts.
• Collaborate closely with directors, producers, and other department heads to ensure the art direction supports the narrative and overall project goals.
• Define and document art style guides and visual development guidelines for projects.
• Review and approve artwork at various stages of production, ensuring quality and adherence to the established vision.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Art Director or Lead Artist in the animation or gaming industry, with a portfolio showcasing strong visual development skills.
• Expertise in 2D and 3D art principles, including composition, color theory, character design, and environmental design.
• Proficiency with industry-standard art software such as Adobe Photoshop, Maya, or equivalent.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and guide artistic teams effectively.
• A keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling through visual art.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and access to training.
• A creative and collaborative work environment in our Milton Keynes studio.