Summary of Position
A Character Modeler/Articulator is responsible for working with Art Designers and Animators to realize
a character in digital form. This includes both shaping the the character’s 3D geometry and the delivery
of a well-designed set of animation controls for manipulating that geometry. The three main disciplines
are modeling, rigging and rig building.
An applicant for a rig position is expected to be very strong in at least 2 of these areas.
If you have strong artistic skills your two areas of focus might be modeling and rigging. If you are a CG grad
you might be strong in rig construction as you can program and have math skills and you might have a good eye for modeling and motion..
Responsibilities
Modeling covers the spectrum of being able to build humans, robots, cars or toys.
– Using modeling software to sculpt and refine a neutral 3D model to fit the aesthetic needs of Character Designers.
– Designing and maintaining a modeling topology conducive to the storyboarded range of deformations.
Rigging is the process of giving a character controls for movement, therein “articulating” its ranges of motion. We like to think of it as bringing the character to life.
– Working closely with Animators to provide and refine an articulation of the full range of expressions and
body movement needed to support a character’s acting range in the film. A truth to materials/anatomy and animation principles is emphasized, as is patience and a willingness to experiment!
– Creative use of deformers to achieve a specific deformation called for by Animation with a concise set of animation controls.
Rig building is the process of building and supporting rigs that a group of riggers can apply to a set of characters.
– Designing and maintaining Master Rigs that can be re-used as a basis for articulating similar characters, or applying existing Rigs to newly created character sculpts.
– Writing scripts to facilitate workflow improvements in Python or MEL, or working with a programmer to enable them to make such improvements effectively.
– Brainstorming new techniques and ideas for user interfaces, deformation tools, and character specific rigging solutions.
– Troubleshooting technical issues inherent in maintaining a clean file structure and pipelines for both in-house and 3rd party software.
– Having proficiency in a programming language and math is important.
Submission Process
Modeling Reel Guidelines:
On a reel we look for examples of digital sculpting of organic forms such as faces or bodies as well as a variety of works and styles. The best presentations include a turntable showing the final result and a turntable with the mesh so we can evaluate topology. Modeling is an artistic endeavor so showing examples of drawings or clay sculpts will help. Showing cloth modeling and/or hair modeling will also strengthen a reel.
Rigging Reel Guidelines:
What we look for in a reel is examples of rigging that support the type of character that is being attempted.
A realistic character will have be true to the materials it is made out of. A cartoony character might have Tex Avery touches. Since rigging serves animation showing examples of animation will strengthen the reel.
Rig Building Reel Guidelines:
What we look for in reels are systems that can be used to make faces or bodies. Showing how the controls work and the interface for the animators is important. Descriptive text for the technical designs/tools shown on the reel should be provided on a separate breakdown sheet included with your reel/resume.
