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/