Industry Roles | Concept Artist
/As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes. Still, they need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various roles that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we look at what a concept artist does.
When we marvel at the visual splendor of a movie or TV show, it's natural to praise the director, actors, and cinematographers. However, long before the first frame is shot, a concept artist is already at work, shaping the world we will eventually see. They are the ones who design the futuristic cityscapes and terrifying monsters that populate our favorite stories. Without their unique vision, some of the most iconic visuals in entertainment would simply not exist.
What Does a Concept Artist Do?
Concept artists, the creative architects of the film and TV world, bridge the gap between imagination and production. They are the first to visually interpret a project, setting the tone for the entire film or show. Their work helps directors and designers turn ideas into reality. Using digital painting software like Photoshop, 3D modeling programs like Blender, and even traditional sketching, they craft everything from detailed landscapes to intricate costume designs, each stroke a testament to their boundless imagination.
Some of the most famous films and TV shows owe their striking aesthetics to concept artists. Ralph McQuarrie's early illustrations for "Star Wars" shaped the look of Darth Vader, stormtroopers, and TIE fighters. Ryan Meinerding, a Marvel Studios artist, helped design Iron Man's evolving suits throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe. On television, HBO's "Game of Thrones" relied on concept artists from Karakter Design Studio to bring Westeros to life, from towering castles to mythical dragons.
Key Responsibilities and Skills
Concept artists don't just sketch cool designs — they translate ideas into visuals that align with a director's vision. Some key responsibilities include:
● Character and Creature Design – Crafting the first versions of heroes, villains, and otherworldly beings. Concept artists sketch different iterations of characters, experimenting with shapes, silhouettes, and details to find the perfect look. Whether it's designing a menacing alien or a regal fantasy warrior, these initial drafts help guide costume designers and animators in the later stages of production.
● Environment and Set Design – Visualizing futuristic cities, alien landscapes, or haunted houses before they're built. These artists create atmospheric backdrops that immerse audiences in a story's world. They consider architectural styles, terrain, lighting, and weather conditions to ensure the environment matches the film's or series's tone.
● Prop and Vehicle Design – Creating blueprints for swords, spaceships, and gadgets used on-screen. Concept artists develop intricate technical drawings that define how props function and look, balancing aesthetics with practicality. These designs serve as guides for prop makers and digital modelers, ensuring consistency across the production.
● Mood and Color Studies – Experimenting with lighting, shadows, and colors to establish tone and atmosphere. By manipulating color palettes and contrast, concept artists evoke emotions and set the visual mood of a scene. Their studies influence cinematographers' and production designers' lighting and set decoration choices.
● Collaboration with Production Teams – Working closely with directors, production designers, and VFX teams to ensure consistency. Concept artists receive feedback and adjust designs to align with the creative vision. They help maintain visual continuity across sets, costumes, CGI elements, and practical effects, ensuring a seamless final product.
Concept artists need more than just a vivid imagination. They must also possess strong drawing skills, an understanding of perspective and composition, and the ability to adapt to different visual styles. Familiarity with software like Procreate, Maya, and ZBrush is a plus. However, perhaps the most crucial skill is the ability to accept and incorporate feedback. Concept artists often go through multiple iterations before arriving at a final design, and the ability to adapt and improve is essential in this field.
How to Become a Concept Artist
Breaking into the industry takes dedication, but it's possible to turn creativity into a career with the right steps. Here are some ways to begin your journey:
Build Strong Art Fundamentals – Focus on anatomy, lighting, and perspective through traditional or digital practice.
Learn Digital Tools – Master industry-standard software like Photoshop and Blender.
Create a Standout Portfolio – Showcase original work, including character designs, environments, and props.
Study Film and TV Design – Analyze how visual storytelling works in different genres.
Network and Gain Experience – Attend industry events, share work online, and collaborate on indie projects.
Apply for Jobs or Freelance – Look for opportunities at studios or work as a freelance artist on various productions.
Resources to Get Started
For those eager to dive deeper into concept art, here are some great online resources:
● ArtStation – A platform showcasing portfolios and job listings.
● The Gnomon Workshop – Industry-level tutorials from professional artists.
● FZD School of Design YouTube Channel – Free educational videos on design fundamentals.
● Concept Art World – A hub for Concept Art news and inspiration.
The Unsung Heroes of Film and TV
At Broadway Stages, we recognize the invaluable role of concept artists in bringing stories to life, ensuring that the magic of film and television starts long before the cameras roll. Concept artists are the invisible architects of film and television storytelling, changing soundstages into medieval castles, alien landscapes, or whatever a storyteller needs. They breathe life into ideas long before actors step onto a set, helping shape the visual identity of everything from epic fantasy sagas to gritty sci-fi blockbusters. Without them, movies and TV shows wouldn't have the immersive worlds that captivate audiences worldwide.
Looking to break into the film and television industry? Visit our website for the Broadway Stages film and TV Industry Resource Guide This comprehensive guide includes:
● Job postings and recruitment sites
● Education and training programs
● Industry networking opportunities
One of New York’s largest and most trusted full-service studio production companies, offering comprehensive services for film, television, live streaming, commercials, live performances, music videos, and more. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve become a cornerstone of New York’s thriving creative industry.
With more than 60 soundstages spanning across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, Broadway Stages offers over 4 million square feet of state-of-the-art production space, including soundstages, support space, distinctive filming locations, parking, and in-house services for lighting, power, and grip rentals. We provide tailored solutions for productions of all sizes, delivering the resources and expertise needed to meet your creative and technical needs.
Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information and links to put you in touch with industry-focused job posting sites; general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.
