Class Catalog

Class Details

Summer 2026:

TERM DATES: Jul 5, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
LEVEL: Advanced
COURSE PREREQUISITES:Introduction to 3D Modeling, Intermediate ZBrush Modeling, Advanced Production Modeling

LookDev and Grooming

$1620

Learn to apply practical Look Development techniques used in the industry, such as procedural shading, painting textures & hair grooming tools.
Gain a deeper understanding of the principles of Physically Based Rendering and the science of light and materials.
Become proficient in analyzing and evaluating reference to integrate it into their work.
Develop skills in visual storytelling, workflow strategy, and technical literacy.

Cultivate an artistic eye for appeal to present final renders ready for a professional reel

Tools include:
Autodesk Maya (required)
Pixar's RenderMan (required)
Adobe Substance 3D Painter (required)
Adobe Photoshop (recommended)
Critique Time * Class Time Instructor Notes
Sunday 9:00 PM - 10:30 PM Tuesday 9:00 PM - 10:30 PM
Jackson Spencer

ABOUT INSTRUCTORS

Jackson Spencer

United States Flag United States

Jackson is a Look Development artist based in San Francisco with years of experience in the animation, VFX, and games industries. Primarily focused on shading and grooming for feature film, he most recently worked as a Technical Director at Pixar Animation Studios contributing to the character work for Elio (2024) and Hoppers (2025), and previously held roles including Lead Pipeline & Rendering Technician, freelance VFX artist, digital concept artist, and technical advisor/mentor to students. His journey began in traditional art, but over time his skills and interests have evolved into a blend of technical and artistic expertise. With a background spanning various aspects of the 3D pipeline, including lighting, rendering, compositing, and pipeline technical direction, he brings a broad perspective to his work, using these disciplines to inform and enhance his workflow strategies and artistic contributions. Whether drawing, painting, developing technical shading workflows, or scripting artist-friendly tools, above all his passion for creativity, problem-solving, and sharing knowledge with others is what drives both his professional and personal pursuits.
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