Today we’d like to introduce you to Shutong Liu.
Hi Shutong, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Like many creatives here, I grew up with a strong liking for drawing and crafting. However, I never had the courage to pursue the arts as a real career path as it was deemed unpractical by many people around me. For my bachelor’s degree, I listened to my parents and went with an engineering major. However, as I got to my Junior year, I was miserable and was sure it wasn’t for me. After graduating, I wanted to at least try my luck in the creative industry, so I made a leap and applied to study animation for graduate school. Thankfully, luck is on my side. I now work in the animation industry, something a 10-year-old me would never have thought would happen.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Most of the struggles were internal. Growing up, I was constantly thought about the future and trying to choose between passion or a stable career (and it turns out they can be both!). Once my mind was set, the road has been pretty smooth. I truly believe in the saying that if you really want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a look development artist (also referred to as a surfacing or texturing artist) working in the animation industry. When a 3d model is created, we are responsible for applying textures like skin, cloth, hair, grass, etc. to them so they feel more tangible. The first big character that I got to work on was Antonio from Encanto. I was responsible for his whole look (skin and clothing materials) and groom (hair styling). I took my time to make his curls feel as organic and un-CG as I can, and I’m really happy about how he turned out! I think something that sets me apart is that I also used to work as a concept artist as well as having engineering experience. That helps me out as a look development artist when art direction is vague and I need to keep a clear head while coming up with a few different looks.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
As boring as it might sound for an interview, I have an almost prudent attitude when it comes to taking risks. I don’t chase after risks, but I also don’t avoid risks if there is a meaningful reward for it. I like to set goals to chase after and mentally prepare a few backup plans in case the best scenario fails. Breaking down and planning out steps makes achieving seemingly unrealistic goals attainable, and this mindset has been working for me so far 🙂
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leojiaz/
