Concept art and concept artists are not a modern addition to the entertainment industry. Think Eyvind Earle (Sleeping Beauty, Lady and the Tramp, Peter Pan) and Mary Blair (Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella) or Ralph McQuarrie (original Star Wars trilogy) and H. R. Giger (Alien). However, in recent years with the introduction of large movie franchises, extensive video game technologies, the increased use of CGI in live action and animation and not forgetting the advancement in digital art, it has become a large and integral part of the creative process. The ability to create highly rendered finished pieces of art, at speed, make concept art and artists a very valuable asset. Yet this large group of unsung heroes are rarely recognized at large awards ceremonies, their names are regularly left out of print articles and interviews during press for big projects that they have been a huge part of it and we aim to change that. Concept Art Association is an organization committed to elevating and raising the profile of concept artists, their art and their involvement in the entertainment industries. We are creating a community and have events throughout the year with an annual Concept Art Awards Show where we showcase and recognize these behind-the-scenes individuals working in entertainment concept art. Artists and students can get involved and support the cause by joining Concept Art Association through our membership program. This will provide them access to networking events, job postings, an online directory of our members.
