Emily Shilling at Electric Theatre Collective

Emily Shilling

At the recent University of Hertfordshire annual Expo, UH graduate Emily Shilling gave a talk about her work as a concept artist at the Electric Theatre Collective (ETC), with some helpful advice for students on how to break into the industry - at a time of rapid technological change.

Emily Shilling studied 3D animation at UH but focused on concept art.  Emily managed to find work at ETC when she heard that ETC were looking for a technical artist, doing fur and muscle systems. "I love doing that kind of work", said Emily - even though "this was a total lie".  Once in the door at ETC, Emily was able to transition to doing concept art - her real passion. 

AI

Concept Art by Emily Shilling

Asked about the growing use of AI for concept art, Emily Shilling explained that artists at ETC do use AI in their daily work - but it needs to be done with care. 

AI needs to be used carefully and ethically (it is especially useful for pitching to clients) but it has its limitations. "In a world where everyone is using AI – not using it can make you stand out."

Networking
Asked about breaking into the industry, Emily Shilling emphasised the importance of attending industry events. She explained that students should "attend events, and learn how to talk to people in the office.  Learn to face rejection, and also learn how to deal with it".

Passion Projects

Electric Theatre Collective (ETC)

Emily Shilling advised to students and graduates to keep working on their own projects.  Students should "make your own work, do some painting on weekends. Keep and develop your own artistic vision".  

Emily added that ETC support the ideal of artists doing their own work. ETC "allows artists to take a couple of months off after three years – and still keep their job".

Be Bold - and Take Risks
Emily Shilling closed out her talk by inviting students to take risks, to advance their own personal development.  She finished with the observation that "Every good opportunity that has ever been presented to me has been a direct result of me trying something new”.

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