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What is game art?

Game art focuses on the visual and aesthetic elements of game design and development. It plays a crucial role in the game development pipeline by creating cohesive and engaging visual elements such as objects, environments, and characters.

You’ll acquire a range of skills in game art by combining creative, practical and technical skills in this area. This includes visual storytelling and understanding how to develop engaging visual experiences that drive exciting narratives and gameplay to immerse players into 3D worlds. You’ll explore the process from sketches and ideation to game-ready assets that can be integrated into real-time and interactive workflows to engage and captivate players.

The gaming industry is huge, globally and in Australia. In game art, you’ll learn how to create your own unique style in this rapidly expanding industry, combining visual aesthetics with gameplay and game logic.

As a game artist, you can transfer your skillset across different areas. You might produce concept art for AAA games, create your own projects as an indie game artist, make 3D models for architectural or infrastructure projects, or design environments for film production. Throughout your studies, you’ll develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills while gaining hands-on experience.

Why study game art at UNSW?

You’ll join our supportive, interdisciplinary and peer-oriented community of art and design practitioners in the School of Art and Design to develop as an artist and expand your professional portfolio.

Connect with the latest industry trends, technologies and professional workflows

Enhance your skills in art and design, stay informed about new software tools and adopt innovative techniques. You’ll get to create real-time experiences that can immerse players into innovative and exciting game worlds. By connecting with these advancements, you empower yourself to excel in your creative career.

Learn practical in-demand skills 

With a focus on visual elements and asset creation, you'll learn how to master highly sought-after techniques, stay ahead of industry trends, and position yourself for success. By acquiring these skills, you open doors to exciting opportunities and ensure your work stands out in the competitive landscape of game art and 3D asset creation. 

Experiment creatively in a supportive studio environment

Unleash your creativity in a supportive studio environment where experimentation is encouraged and collaboration thrives. Surrounded by a community of like-minded artists, it’s the perfect setting to grow, learn and create as you develop as an artist and expand your professional portfolio. Embrace the freedom to experiment and watch your ideas come to life in a space designed to nurture your creative potential. 

Understand the history and context of games

Discover the rich history and context of games and gaming technologies. Explore how they have evolved into one of the most immersive mediums of our time. Delve into game classics, learn how technological advancements has shaped the industry and the cultural nuances that have driven innovation.

Master the ability to analyse and understand the theory and practice behind contemporary games

Gain valuable insights into the interplay of game mechanics, narratives and player dynamics, which are essential for creating captivating gaming experiences. Understand how to balance these key elements to maintain player interest and satisfaction to design engaging games that resonate with players.

Careers in game art

Our game art courses are designed to meet growing industry demand for artists and creative professionals. You’ll graduate with practical experience and extensive training in the latest game engine technologies, like Unreal Engine, to accelerate your game production skills and create interactive, real-time games and experiences. From 3D modelling to worldbuilding, game art will provide you with the tools to develop and experiment with game technologies of the future.

Game art careers:

  • 3D artist
  • 3D environment artist
  • 3D generalist
  • Concept artist
  • Contemporary game artist
  • Game artist
  • Game designer
  • Game developer
  • Level designer
  • Pre-visualisation artist
  • Technical artist
  • Texture artist
  • Virtual production artist
  • Virtual reality artist

Our facilities

Our School of Art and Design located at our Paddington campus is home to a dynamic community of artists and designers. As a game art student, you’ll engage with a range of high-end creative technologies, advanced computer labs and specialised digital production facilities. This experience will accelerate your technical skills and give you a competitive edge when you enter the workforce. You’ll also gain access to our advanced computer labs and use our latest game engine software to gain practical experience and create innovative projects.

The Black Box

The Black Box is a multi-use production and presentation studio space used for teaching across video, motion capture, animation and performance. 

Hackspace

Hackspace is a flexible, technology-focused space where students can experiment, prototype and access support in the areas of creative coding, physical computing and electronics.

Green Screen Studio

The Green Screen Studio provides access to Motion Capture and Real-Time VFX workflows.

Our programs

  • Immerse yourself in digital art and design, 3D modelling and game art. Throughout your studies, you’ll create a diverse portfolio of game art, establishing practical skills and exploring the historical and cultural impacts of digital media.

    Refine your artistic abilities through hands-on projects and collaborative workshops. You’ll gain a deep understanding of your role within the game development industry and appreciate the technical, creative, and ethical considerations involved in your work as a game artist.

    We offer the following undergraduate courses with a minor in game art: