Section:

Julian Calle: concept artist interview 2018

Julian Calle

Concept Artist

Learn more about Julian Calles passion for art and the work he has done as a concept artist for Image Engine, Vancouver...

Learn more about Julian Calles passion for art and the work he has done as a concept artist for Image Engine, Vancouver...

3dtotal: Tell us a little bit about yourself: Who are you, what do you do, and where are you located?
Julian Calle: I am a graphic designer, passionate about art, cinema, and digital composition. I am a concept artist for Image Engine, Vancouver, BC, and I have worked on Logan, Detroit, Thor Ragnarok, Lost in Space, X-Files and other projects!

As freelance, I have worked as a concept artist for Smoke and Mirrors and Seven Lions. I studied for a VFX scholarship at Facet School VFX. I also participated as a mentor of concept art online for Facet School VFX when I finished my studies there. I was a university professor for more than 5 years before joining the film industry. I enjoy sharing my experience. I have lectured by invitation at universities in Colombia and Mexico.

I have always liked this landscape because of the simplicity and light handling, the triangles in the composition generate strength

I have always liked this landscape because of the simplicity and light handling, the triangles in the composition generate strength

3dt: Tell us about your art: Your style, themes, genre, and some of the favorite projects you have worked on.
JC: My style is very realistic and maybe for this reason I work very well in the VFX industry. I have a great preference for credible and functional environments and sci-fi. For this I focus on the light and the camera, and Im currently working on Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Logan and Lost in Space were two projects that I really enjoyed.

The clear silhouettes of this composition separate the planes of depth, which is very important

The clear silhouettes of this composition separate the planes of depth, which is very important

3dt: Can you describe your typical workflow, and the software/hardware you normally use when creating your artwork?
JC: The tools that I usually use are Photoshop, Nuke, Modo and ZBrush. I try to start with simple sketches concentrating more on the silhouette and the composition, and go from there to create three-dimensional bases that will help to make the perspective and illumination clearer. I use this same process when I have to paint over a shot to create a concept for VFX.

I have always loved this concept; the light that filters between the forms generates the magic in the composition

I have always loved this concept; the light that filters between the forms generates the magic in the composition

3dt: What inspires you?
JC: I am inspired by everything that surrounds me. I try to find interest in any place or object. I look at the work of many great artists and try different things that energize my portfolio, and help me solve the design problems that are assigned to me.

One of my skills is to be able to paint on a shot or frame in a realistic way to recreate a new environment

One of my skills is to be able to paint on a shot or frame in a realistic way to recreate a new environment

3dt: How do you keep your portfolio up-to-date? Any tips?
JC: I think the secret is to work, study and never stop doing, this is a highly competitive sport that needs all our energy and commitment. The important thing is to set high goals and strive for them; you must overcome and fight against the frustration but never be afraid because you learn more from the failures than from the successes.

Only some details are necessary on the face for the concept to come to life

Only some details are necessary on the face for the concept to come to life

3dt: Who are your favorite artists, traditional or digital, and can you explain why?
JC: Traditional artists Diego Velazquez, Caravaggio, for their great technical quality and expression. On the other hand, I admire digital artists such as Dylan Cole, Jaime Jasso, and Eduardo Pena for their versatility and accurate design response. Andree Wallin is another artist that I deeply admire for his narrative and virtuosity with light.

Using 3D to generate simple bases to paint will help you generate complex and interesting cameras

Using 3D to generate simple bases to paint will help you generate complex and interesting cameras

3dt: What can we expect to see from you next?
JC: I think what you will always see will be a person trying to become a great artist one day. I will continue working hard for Image Engine where I always have the possibility to work in incredible productions with very talented people, from which I learn every day.

The silhouettes will allow you to read the forms in a simpler way

The silhouettes will allow you to read the forms in a simpler way

Creating an interesting mood allows for stories in a single frame

Creating an interesting mood allows for stories in a single frame

Related links

Julian Calles website
Julian on ArtStation
Julian on LinkedIn

Fetching comments...

Post a comment