Gaining more opinions

**Shadow-Hoshi** · April 16th, 2007, 02:17 AM

First off I'd like to say: hello everyone, lovely website you have here.

I am planning on attending the Art Institute of Portland once I finish high school and have just recently figured that I specifically want to be a concept artist.

When I was first looking at the programs of study for AI the one that stuck out the most was the "Multi Media and Animation" degree. What I'm curious about is if that would be the right program to go into for concept art. I plan on asking my instructor but I'd also like to hear the opinions of others who know what they're talking about.

Please and Thank you.

~Megan

**nilaffle** · April 16th, 2007, 06:25 AM

Why the Art Institute of Portland?

Most likely, no. Media Arts and Animation puts an emphasis on animating and digital media, not illustrating (which is what you'll be doing as a concept artist). Take a look at the curriculum on their web site. Their drawing courses really don't go past the fifth quarter - that's only about one year of actual drawing. You'll want a little more than that for concept art.

**artmessiah** · April 16th, 2007, 06:43 AM

If I were you I'd stay away from the AI's. I almost went that route 2 years ago and I'm glad I didn't. For concept art I would look into more illustration type courses. Media arts and Animation is just that... filmed media and animation. I recommend Ringling, RISD, SCAD, or CalArts illustration program if you want to do concept art. Check them out for yourself and make a wise and informed decision. I'll put a few here for you to check out.

All are awesome schools and have a great reputations. I'm partial to Ringling, but that's just me.

www.rsad.edu
www.risd.edu
www.scad.edu (Savannah)
www.calarts.edu
www.artcenter.edu
www.mica.edu
www.ccad.edu
www.schoolofvisualarts.edu

**Shadow-Hoshi** · April 16th, 2007, 07:31 PM

Thank you all for the helpful insight and suggestions. I'll certainly put those things into account

~Megan

**Maxine Schacker** · April 16th, 2007, 09:41 PM

If you're looking around, check out Max the Mutt in Toronto (www.maxthemutt.com). Our animation program has such a strong drawing component that we've had graduates hired into illustration and concept art jobs. Now we also have a 3 year illustration diploma, and we're in the process of completing curriculum and applying for diploma status for a new 4 year concept art diploma. All students take the same first year curriculum, so changing diploma programs after year one is easy as long as we have room. We pride ourselves on being affordable ($9500 Canadian per academic year), and all faculty are working professionals.If you want more information you can contact me or Van Olson at [email protected], or phone us at 1-877-486-MUTT.