Personal Statement

AG1064A: Professional Practice – Personal Statement

Proposer: Shanti Easton

Student Number: 0701816

Programme: Computer Arts

Specialism(s): 3D Environment Art, Games

Personal Statement

Inspiration and Interests

I am inspired by really interesting and exciting worlds in novels, films, paintings, TV and games. I always want to explore the best environments further and in more detail, and this is only really possible in computer games.

Characters are often well defined and represented in linear narrative, but I am never as satisfied with the environments as I always want to see what is around the next corner or through the trees. For example one of my favourite games series is The Elder Scrolls by Bethesda, as the player can explore anything they can see when looking out over the landscape.

I love beautiful, functional and well thought out art. But also appreciate when an artist includes the kind of aesthetic detail that is completely unnecessary in the context of completing the game; by not having to justify itself, I find that the environment can be promoted to the status of art. I consider myself an artist and respect the work of other artists more than content that is just there for a character to run through.

Another huge inspiration for me is the consummate work of Hideo Kojima, creator of the Metal Gear series. I admire his uncompromising approach to realising every part of his vision in his games and hope to one day have the same level of influence on any project.

Career and Creative Aims

During my career I plan to work, at one time or another, in Environment design and 3D Environment Modelling and Texturing for games; Art Direction; Game Design and Creative Direction. I wish to create engaging, convincing and exciting environments in which to enjoy great games.

Current Skills and Abilities

Environment and character design; traditional art skills; game design; Maya 3D modelling; Photoshop and texturing skills; Flash 2D art and animation; critical discussion of games.

Skill Gaps

By the end of this year, I plan to become highly skilled at 3DS Max modelling; advanced environmental design and construction.