Freelance concept artist Justin Fields was kind enough to share some of his artwork and answer a few questions for Concept Art World. For more artwork and updates be sure to like his Facebook Page and follow him on Twitter.
Link: www.justinfields.com
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Where did you study and what guided your path to become an artist?
Well I always wanted to be a comic book artist, drawing super heroes all day. But where I lived, the arts were quietly frowned upon so I gave up that dream. About 7 years later a friend bought me Scott Robertson’s “The Skillful Huntsman” featuring Khang Le, Mike Yamada, and Felix Yoon. For some reason I fell in love with art all over again. About 2 years later I applied to the Gnomon School of Visual Effects and attended the Entertainment Design program. After that, I was brought on board by Jerad Marantz at the Aaron Sims Company to intern. After that, I was hired on as a full time concept artist. Since then, I have become a freelance concept artist and visual development designer in film and games. I have worked for companies including Imaginary Forces, Sony Imageworks, Studio ADI, Riot Games, Kung Fu Factory, and Digital Tutors to name a few.
What is your current job title or position?
Freelance concept artist and visual development designer.
What or who inspired you to become an artist?
Oh man that’s always a hard one to answer. With all the artwork we get to see every day on the internet, it’s hard to nail down just one inspiration. I would have to start with Jerad Marantz, Neville Page, Dan Luvisi, Josh Nizzi, Ian McCaig, Ryan Meinerding, and Andree Wallin. [These] are the ones that constantly inspire me. They are a constant source of inspiration and a drive to push myself further.
What is a typical day like for you as an artist?
Typical day starts out answering emails, walking the dogs and jumping right in to whatever project I am working on at the moment. A few breaks, but mostly I work pretty late into the evening. It’s hard to call it work when you are doing what you love.
What are some of the projects that you have worked on?
Black Sails, Iron Man 3, Goosebumps, Direct TV, Jupiter Ascending, Maleficent, Noah, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, Firelight, Blink, Falling Skies, The Wolverine, Scrapyard, Eternals, Ragnarock, Tethered Islands, Digital Tutors, ImagineFX, 3DArtist, Last Man Standing: LMS 2nd print., League of Legends, Ultraman
Is there a certain project or piece of artwork that you have done that you are most proud of? Why?
None in particular, however I am currently putting together a sci-fi collection of some of my art into a book. Hopefully I can have it out by sometime in 2014.
What kind of projects are you currently working on?
Currently working on Goosebumps, and some art for League of Legends. Also doing some work for Imaginary Forces.
Could you tell us about the kind of process, techniques or software that you use to create your art?
I use Zbrush, and Photoshop to create most of my images. I have used Sketchup, and Keyshot to further my designs. I really enjoy using Alchemy as inspiration in designing.
What kind of the things do you do to keep your creativity flowing or to get inspired?
Things like Alchemy and Pinterest are an amazing source of inspiration. I like to do traditional sketching and sculpture when I get a chance.
What kind of advice can you give to someone that would like to become an artist in the film and game industry?
Work hard, and it will pay off. In this industry you have to want it bad enough to succeed. If you don’t, some who wants it more than you will get the job.
All images used with permission by the artist. © Justin Fields or their respective copyright holder.