2D Layout Artist - Experienced

About The Role

We are looking for a talented and creative 2D Layout Artist to join the studio for an exciting upcoming 2D project!

As part of the Layout team, artists will provide linework background art and any additional assets needed for an episode. They will require in-depth knowledge of Photoshop, have strong organisational skills and be able to work to tight deadlines.

Working closely with the Lead, the layout artists will be required to work in the style of the show, following the environment art pack provided for them. They will be working directly from a storyboard and will be responsible for preparing and completing the required shots while considering camera placement, mood, and perspective, ready for the Background Paint team.

This opportunity is due to start mid October 2024.

We are very happy to discuss flexible, hybrid and remote working options for all our vacancies.

Day To Day

• Set up Photoshop files and create skillful animation layout drawings based on storyboard panels whilst maintaining the show style
• Accurately interpret the perspective and composition laid out in a storyboard
• Use your knowledge and skill to strengthen the shows visual language
• Support the team with fixes when necessary
• Work to tight deadlines
• All team members will be required to organise their work flow using the work trackers provided and keeping the tracker updated on the progress of each background will be essential for working together smoothly
  
  

About You

Must Have:

• Excellent perspective skills
• A great sense of composition and staging
• Ability to adapt to the required design style
• Ability to interpret concept designs into the desired layout
• Proficient experience with photoshop software
• Great sense of character posing and action staging
• Generous with your knowledge and skill
• Able to take direction and willing to take on board constructive feedback
• Strong communication skills and the desire to work closely with team members
• Work fast and efficiently to meet deadlines
• Excellent organisation skills to maintain clean, manageable photoshop files and work tightly with the production tracker
  
  

Bonus Points

• Previous experience working on a 2D animated show
• Experience using Shotgrid
  
  

About Us

Blue Zoo is a leading animation studio in the UK, with a world-class reputation as the go-to place for creating bold, fun and characterful animation. Established in London in 2000, the studio has grown to become the largest dedicated CG animation studio in the UK, picking up a shelf full of BAFTAs, an Annie and an Emmy along the way!

We couldn’t be prouder that Blue Zoo is the first major animation studio in the world to receive B Corp certification. We’ve been independently certified by B Lab, a non-profit organisation who award the B Corp certification. The certification verifies companies who are working to improve the lives of employees as well as industries as a whole. The certification process involves over 170 rigorous metrics to improve the lives of our staff, customers, suppliers, and the local community, ensuring we are not just saying we are ethical with empty gestures, but independently evidencing it.

We are going through an exciting period of growth and are building a studio that is full of amazingly talented, happy artists, making work they are proud of, which in turn makes a small contribution to a happier world. Blue Zoo believes that a healthy balance in our lives - whatever our situation - is key to supporting the wellbeing of our staff. We offer flexible working to support this.

We look for people who have expertise, enthusiasm and are motivated to make things better. You’ll work alongside a talented and diverse group of people who respect each other's differences and seek to understand and embrace fresh perspectives.

What We’ve Got For You

• Winner of Best Places to Work in TV 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2024.
• Inclusive self-funded shorts programme.
• Many fun in person and remote social events throughout the year.
• Bi-monthly employee feedback and engagement programme.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including loads of discounts and offers.
• Online wellbeing programme.
• Profit share (for employees who have been with us for 2 years).
  
  

Blue Zoo is committed to creating and nurturing an inclusive studio that promotes and values diversity and invites everyone to ‘bring their whole selves’ to work. We believe that companies that truly embrace and value diversity, and create an environment where everyone from any background can do their best work, are better companies.

To be engaged our people have to feel included and valued. We work hard to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is embedded in the way we work, not just an initiative. We strive to engender a studio community that feels a deep sense of pride and commitment that transcends any role, department or level and works together to produce excellent and engaging work.