The VFX Digital Matte Paint Artist is responsible for creating photorealistic environments and visual effects that blend seamlessly with stylized, stage-driven stop motion photography and CG elements. This role will collaborate with the VFX Art Director, Lead Environment Artists, and Sr Compositors to craft environments that elevate the narrative and visual style of our film. The VFX Digital Matte Paint Artist demands both technical expertise and creative problem-solving, translating complex creative visions into production-ready assets under tight deadlines in a fast-paced creative environment. 

Job Functions

• Create highly detailed, photorealistic matte paintings that integrate seamlessly with practical set builds and CG environments, maintaining consistency with the established visual style. 
• Collaborate with the VFX Art Director and Lead Environments Artists to develop and refine visual beats that match the storytelling and themes throughout the film. 
• Render 3D images and elements that are both visually compelling and optimized for integration into the production pipeline, working closely with departments such as Environments, Lighting, FX, and Compositing. 
• Use studio-provided suite of digital tools (Photoshop, Nuke, Mari, Substance Painter, Houdini, Blender, Maya, etc.) to produce environments, landscapes, skies, and set extensions that match the photorealistic qualities of stylized practical elements. 
• Work efficiently within production timelines, delivering high-quality assets that are ready for final compositing. 
• Demonstrate versatility by selecting the most appropriate solution for the job, i.e., knowing when a 2D or 2.5D approach is more effective than a full 3D solution. 
• Ensure flawless integration of matte paintings into both set-based plates and CG shots, aligning with lighting, perspective, and texture to create a seamless look. 
• Provide guidance and feedback to artists, ensuring the team maintains high standards of quality and consistency when necessary. 

Qualifications 

• 5+ years of experience as a Digital Matte Paint Artist in VFX or film, with a portfolio that demonstrates expertise in 2D, 3D, and hybrid matte paintings. 
• Strong knowledge of 3D modeling, sculpting, and rendering techniques with proficiency in industry-standard software (e,g., Photoshop, Nuke, Mari, Houdini, Maya, Blender, Substance Painter, etc.). 
• Exceptional understanding of color theory, lighting, composition, and visual storytelling. 
• A keen eye for detail and realism, with the ability to recreate environments that feel authentic and integrated into both practical and digital worlds. 
• Experience working with shoot data including HDRIs, photographic reference, and photogrammetry. 
• Ability to collaborate in a high-pressure, creative environment with a focus on quality and efficient delivery. 
• Strong communication and time-management skills to navigate fast-paced production schedules. 
• A strong portfolio in photography or traditional art forms (e.g., drawing, painting, sculpting) preferred. 
• Familiarity with lighting and compositing techniques to ensure smooth integration of matte paintings into final shots, preferred.