Multimedia Artist/Animator
The artists behind the images and visual effects, from anime characters in video games to computer graphic imagery (CGI) in movies and commercials.
If you’re interested in being a multimedia or special effects artist or animator, expect a lot of variety and the ability to hone your gift. There’s a wide array of career specialties and skills when it comes to multimedia art and animation. Some artists and animators may focus on animated movies, video games or visual effects for movies and television shows. Others specialize in CGI like the three-dimensional images in Avatar, Lord of the Rings and in video games like Assassin’s Creed and Halo 2. And there are some animators whose sole job is to design specific characters, scenery or backgrounds. Although they often work independently, multimedia artists and animators are usually part of a larger team. Their individual design work is part of a larger project that when put together creates a cohesive animation.
Most multimedia artists and animators have a bachelor’s degree in animation, art, computer graphics, fine arts or a related field. It’s also important to build your virtual portfolio highlighting your best designs.
$37,149
entry level salary estimate
$73,161
experienced level salary estimate
337
projected annual job openings
Programs for Multimedia Artists/Animators
Dallas College (AAS degree, certificates)
Midwestern State University (BA, BFA degrees)
North Central Texas College (AA degree)
Southeastern Oklahoma State University (BA degree)
Texas A&M University - Commerce (BFA degree)
Texas Woman’s University (BFA degrees)
Tyler Junior College (AAS degree, certificate)
University of North Texas at Dallas (BA degree)
The arts are thriving in Texas – and you can too!
Feeling creative? You’ll be in good company in the arts and culture industry. If you’re technically inclined, you’ll find lots of opportunities to work behind the scenes – designing, directing, producing, writing and publishing multimedia and other creative content. Short-term training (usually from a few months to about two years) can get you started in some of these positions, while you’ll need more advanced training or a bachelor’s degree for others.
Additional In Demand Careers In Arts and Communications
Sources:
Texas Labor Market Information, Texas Workforce Commission. Statewide wages by occupation, 2021. Statewide projections by occupation, 2020-2030.
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