Meet Huining Shi | Concept Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Huining Shi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Huining, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am a game concept designer originally from China, currently residing in Los Angeles and working at Treyarch.

My design journey was inspired by a lifelong passion for drawing, coupled with a deep interest in films, games, and animation. Following the completion of my education in Fine Art in China, I chose to further hone my skills in concept design at ArtCenter College of Design in Los Angeles.

In 2017, I enrolled in ACCD’s Entertainment Design – Concept track, seizing the opportunity to intern at Infinity Ward and Raven Software during the semester, and actively participating in game development as a concept intern.

Over four years, I forged meaningful connections with like-minded peers and encountered influential teachers who shaped my artistic perspective. After graduating in late 2021, I joined Treyarch, where I continue to thrive as a game concept artist.

These experiences and backgrounds profoundly influence me, providing significant and positive support. I believe that I will evolve into a more professional concept artist, advancing further on the path that I passionately love.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently a concept artist at Treyarch. My primary responsibility involves conceptualizing game scenes, encompassing atmospheric illustrations, scene props, set dressing, and graphic design. I specialize in creating atmospheric scenes, and carefully managing the tone and layout of the environments. Additionally, I possess the ability to rapidly sketch concepts, and beyond that, I excel in summarizing and controlling shapes, with experience in graphic design as well.

Certainly, my professional journey has not always been smooth. My path has been marked by challenges and exploration. In my first university experience, I explored various paths, such as digital media, stage design, and illustration. Despite facing numerous challenges and investing a significant amount of time, I solidified my determination to persist in painting. It was during a short-term internship at a visual effects company that I discovered the preliminary stages of production design (concept design), which involve both painting and design, and found it incredibly interesting and enjoyable. This experience further strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in concept design.

The invaluable lesson I’ve gleaned from these intricate experiences is this: embrace the courage to venture forth and persist in the face of challenges. Life is a journey of perpetual curiosity, a continuous exploration of uncharted territories.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I had friends coming to visit, I would choose to stay with them in Pasadena—the city that holds the deepest sentimental value for me during my time in the United States. I would guide my friends to explore the cultural and academic landmarks of this city—from Beaux-Arts and Spanish Revival architecture to craftsmanship and influences of northern Chinese imperialism.

I would introduce my friends to my favorite private art museum: the Norton Simon Museum, which houses an absolute must-see collection of artists such as Rembrandt, Fragonard, Goya, Degas, Vuillard, and Picasso. Each day, we could enjoy brunch at Copa Vida café and savor stunning dishes at Osawa Japanese restaurant. Pasadena, with its rich cultural tapestry and culinary delights, promises an unforgettable experience for my visiting friends.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I express profound gratitude to my alma mater, ArtCenter College of Design. Throughout these four years, I have not only gained extensive professional knowledge and honed my artistic skills but also cultivated a strong foundation in painting. Moreover, my time at ACCD has provided me with a profound understanding of my chosen career, enabling me to create comprehensive plans for my professional journey.

Beyond academic accomplishments, the deep and meaningful friendships I’ve formed have been invaluable, offering unwavering companionship, support, and encouragement. These connections have made my experience as a foreign student exceptionally warm and enriching.

Of utmost significance, I’ve had the privilege of being mentored by accomplished professors who have played a pivotal role in shaping my professional trajectory. Their guidance has not only expanded my horizons but has also fundamentally transformed the way I perceive the world around me. Consequently, I am sincerely grateful for the time I spent at ArtCenter College of Design. Whether during my student years or in the post-graduation phase, I have forged enduring connections, and I take immense pride in being an ACCD graduate.

Website: https://huiningshi.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/huining1010/?hl=en

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/huining-shi-418432150