Motion Graphic Design, Visual Design, Animation, Art Director

Palo Alto, CA ***** 650-***-**** ******@*****.***

online portfolio: www.michaelmaoart.com

More than 15 years of experience in making computer animated feature films in DreamWorks Animation and star-up

animation studio. Known for ability to create and develop visual standards and style guides with creative, artistic vision

and super productivity. Managed crew members and provided artistic direction and feedback. Repeated success in

managing multiple tasks, setting priorities, meeting deadlines and above expectations. Solid understanding of art and

visual design principles and techniques regarding 3D forms, layout, color theory, graphic design, animation, lighting, and

composition. Ability to handle an extremely wide range of assignments, from photo realism to very stylized. Exceptional

technique in both traditional and digital painting. High attention to detail with a clear understanding of the big picture.

Team player who understands the value of regular and effective communication and team-based problem solving. Ability

to mentor other artists; improve their skills and build their knowledge.

Areas of expertise include:

EXPERIENCE

ANTS ANIMATION STUDIO October

2014 – Present

Art Director

• Provide art direction for the pre-production of an animated feature film.

• Research and identify visual styles and techniques for the film

• Participate in the story development sessions with screen writer, story board artists, visual develop artists, partner with the

Production Designer to ensure product vision and quality benchmark are being met.

• Manage multiple tasks, make schedule and set priorities, and meet deadlines and expectations.

• Regularly review, provide feedback, and approve art being developed.

• Create paint-overs, mockups, to illustrate changes and improvements to the film visuals.

• Collaborate with internal and external multi-disciplinary team of artists.

DREAMWORKS ANIMATION November 2006 –

October 2014

Sr. Concept Artist / Digital Environment Artist

• Designed and created concept art during the early stage of the film development.

• Designed and Created 3D digital environment for the films during production.

• Providing technical direction during the matte painting installation process.

• Provided artistic direction for the team members.

IBM SILICON VALLEY LAB (User Centered Design) August 2000 –

October 2006

Leading Visual Media Designer

• Lead group of visual designers to create look and feel for enterprise database software.

• Delivered world class presentation for both internal and external customers.

• Conducted user tests to improve process of software installation and software usability.

PACIFIC DATA IMAGES May 1999 –

August 2000

Matte Painting Technical Director

• Designed and created 3D digital environment for Oscar winning animated film “Shrek”.

• Provided technical direction for matte painters during production.

• Coordinated with lighting department to ensure the correct installation of the matte paintings.

RTKL ASSOCIATES, INC. May 1993 –

August 1997

Architect

• Designed Created 3D architectural visualization for clients.

• Provided architectural schematic design.

• Involved design development.

• Built digital construction document library.

MURPHYMORRIS.COM September 1996 –

June 1997

Motion Graphic Artist (Freelance)

• Create motion graphics for financial education CD products.

EDUCATION

Master of Science in Visualization Science, Texas A&M University

Master of Architecture, University of Texas at Arlington

Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering, Tongji University

FILMOGRAPHY

• 2014, Penguins of Madagascar

• 2014, Mr. Peabody & Sherman

• 2012, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted

• 2010, MegaMind

• 2008, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa

• 2001, Shrek

AWARDS

• 2014, “Gold Medal Awards”, Oil Painters of America western regional exhibition.

• 2009, “Second Place”, Salon International, International Museum of Contemporary Masters.

• 2007, “Award of Excellence”, Oil Painters of America, Western Regional Juried Exhibition.

• 2007, “Grand Prize”, Winner for Artist’s Magazine Online Competition.

• 2006, “Award of Excellence”, Oil Painters of America National Juried Exhibition.

ONLINE PORTFOLIO

http://www.michaelmaoart.com

Linkedin:

www.linkedin.com/in/waymao

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