Art Direction
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Over time I have adapted several different practices of Art Directing. Some artists appreciate and work very well with verbal direction. However, most the time I find that written direction is best, as it can become a check off list with the artist. This is especially true if the art is technically complicated or it is the first rev.
For this set of image examples, I've posted art direction examples from multiple projects. For the older games, I am posting the results of the art direction, and not the written process.
The feedback I have had from my artists has always been positive with my hand written direction. Sure, it may take me a bit of time, but it also allows me to compare the art they have sent to approved elements already in the game. I can confirm whether the art direction has been followed, and if the art styles, and colors are consistent with the rest of the game. I can also make sure the design is cohesive with the design principles we have established.
P E O P L E M A N A G E M E N T
D e f i n i n g R o l e s
When I have worked as a Studio Manager, one aspect of my responsibilities required me to define roles for artists and Designers studio wide. Ultimately each Artist or Designer could review their career path and learn what they need to do to meet expectations for reviews. Artists and Designers would also be able to continually grow into the next level for their position as they advance to their career goals. Clear expectations are incredibly important to employees. Imagine if each employee could evolve with determination and ease because the expectations are clearly shared with them. As a result of my efforts result in higher morale and clarity in job focus! A win-win for the developer and company! With clearly stated expectations it makes reviews so much less time consuming when the employee already knows where they could have done better. Stress-free reviews for all parties. That is something any company can appreciate!
At the link below is a flow chart I created at Kongregate. This flow example is for the Illustrators only. Keep in mind there is a flow charted for each art and design specialty. For example, Technical Artists, User Interface Artists, and Animators would all have their own career paths defined that they can follow. Designers would have a set of expectations too, also with their specialties tied to the company's values and core expectations. An image flow chart to would be helpful here...
Below is a link to an example document of Illustrator role definitions.
