At a Glance
- Tasks: Create stunning splash art for a narrative horror game, focusing on mood and storytelling.
- Company: Join Vertpaint, a creative studio dedicated to craftsmanship and artistry.
- Benefits: Opportunity for future collaborations and exposure in the gaming industry.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on artistic integrity and creativity.
- Why this job: Showcase your artistic skills and contribute to an exciting game project.
- Qualifications: Experience in creating key art with a strong portfolio showcasing character and environment.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 € per year.
NO AI-GENERATED ART: Ritual Tides is a project that celebrates craftsmanship/artistry. As such, we will not accept the use of generative AI at any stage of this commission.
We are looking for a skilled illustrator to create a bespoke key art piece for Ritual Tides, a narrative horror game set on a remote island off the English coast. This artwork will be used as our primary commercial “splash art” across marketing materials and as a long-format banner on storefronts and social media. While this is a one-time commission, Vertpaint has a strong habit of bringing back great collaborators. If this piece goes well, there is a strong possibility of future work together.
The Brief
- The island of Ritual Tides
- A jagged, ominous island set off the English coast
- Dark, bleak and dramatic weather
- Stormy sea and jagged rocks
- Waves crashing against sharp rocks emerging from the water
- The island in the background, looming and unsettling
- Central Character montage composition
- Key characters from the game “stacked” or clustered around one another
- Think of classic ensemble posters such as Lord of the Rings and Star Wars cover art
- Strong focus on mood, storytelling and clear silhouettes
- Lighting and atmosphere
- Realistic, painterly style
- Visible brushstrokes on closer inspection
- A sky filled with oppressive fog and an encroaching storm
- Title and focal point
- The Ritual Tides logo sits centrally in the composition
- The player character stands prominently, holding a bull lantern, its light flashing forward towards the viewer and acting as a key lighting element in the piece
More detailed information, including videos and visual references, will be sent to shortlisted candidates.
Style
- Realistic but clearly painted
- Strong use of light and shadow to sell mood and tension
- Cohesive colour palette that supports a bleak yet dramatic atmosphere
- Composition that reads clearly both as a full banner and at small thumbnail size
Mood / Style References:
- ArtStation - Ritual Tides - Pre-production - Rural Housing, Vertpaint Studios
Composition References:
Requirements
- Proven experience creating key art, cover art or splash art for games, films, or similar media
- Strong portfolio that shows:
- Character-focused compositions
- Environments and atmospheric lighting
- Painterly, realistic styles
- Ability to work from art direction provided
Illustrator in Derby employer: Vertpaint Studios
At Vertpaint, we pride ourselves on fostering a creative and collaborative work environment that values artistry and craftsmanship. As a freelance illustrator for our Ritual Tides project, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a unique narrative horror game while working alongside passionate professionals who appreciate your skills. With the potential for future collaborations, this role not only offers meaningful work but also a chance to grow within a supportive community dedicated to artistic excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Illustrator in Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in tip-top shape! Make sure it showcases your best work, especially pieces that highlight character-focused compositions and atmospheric lighting. We want to see your unique style shine through!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Join relevant Discord channels or online communities where you can connect with other artists and potential collaborators. Engaging with the community can lead to opportunities and valuable feedback.
✨Tip Number 3
When you apply, tailor your approach! Mention specific elements from the project brief that excite you and how your style aligns with their vision. This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! If you haven’t heard back after a week or two, drop them a friendly message to express your continued interest. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the project.
We think you need these skills to ace Illustrator in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Unique Style:When applying, make sure to highlight your personal artistic style in your portfolio. We want to see how you interpret the dark and dramatic themes of Ritual Tides, so include pieces that reflect your ability to create mood and atmosphere.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your cover letter and portfolio to the specific requirements of the Illustrator role. Mention how your experience aligns with creating key art and splash art, as this will show us you’re genuinely interested.
Follow the Brief Closely:Make sure to read the project brief thoroughly and address the key elements in your application. We’re looking for someone who can capture the essence of the island and its characters, so demonstrate your understanding of the themes and visual references provided.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your submission!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vertpaint Studios
✨Know Your Craft
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the artistic style and requirements outlined in the job description. Familiarise yourself with the mood and atmosphere they want to convey, and be ready to discuss how your previous work aligns with their vision.
✨Showcase Relevant Work
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best character-focused compositions and environments. Include pieces that demonstrate your ability to create realistic, painterly styles and atmospheric lighting, as these are key elements for the project.
✨Research the Project
Dive into the Ritual Tides project by exploring their website and Discord. Understanding the narrative and themes will help you tailor your responses and show genuine interest during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the team. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the collaboration would be a good fit for you. Think about asking how they envision the character interactions or the overall tone of the artwork.
