Think Tank Spotlights:...Since graduating from Think Tank in 2015, Ray Le has gone on to become an internationally recognized AAA Games Character Artist and Art Director at NCSoft Vietnam Visual Studio. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Ray is part of Vietnam’s growing CG industry–having worked on titles such as Blade and Soul, Lineage, Guild Wars and Throne and Liberty.
I caught up with Ray ahead of the Mozaik XPO Vietnam taking place July, 2023. We discussed what he’s been up to since graduating from Think Tank, why specializing was important for him to launch his career, and where he sees the Games industry going in his home country of Vietnam.
Think Tank: Can you tell us a bit about your current role...where are you working and what are you creating these days?
Ray Le: In my current role as Art Director at NCSoft Vietnam Visual Studio, I have the privilege of collaborating with a team of talented 3D Artists in the development of various games for NCSoft. Our projects include renowned titles such as Blade and Soul, Lineage, Guild Wars, Throne and Liberty, as well as upcoming unannounced projects. It is an exciting and fulfilling experience to contribute to the creation of these immersive gaming experiences alongside a team of passionate individuals.
TT: You spent a year learning at Think Tank. What was your program like and what were some of the big takeaways?
RL: During my one year at Think Tank, I immersed myself in a comprehensive program that covered various aspects of 3D art, from modeling and animation to VFX. The program allowed me to explore different disciplines within the field, but ultimately, I chose to specialize in 3D Character Art.
The culture at Think Tank was incredibly supportive and collaborative. Alumni were encouraged to stay connected and continue learning even after completing the program. This sense of community fostered an environment where individuals could learn from and assist one another, creating a strong network of like-minded people who shared a common passion.
TT: How important is a specialized education for those looking to start a career?
RL: A specialized education, such as the one I received at Think Tank, is incredibly important for those looking to start a career in the creative industry, particularly in the field of 3D art. The program at Think Tank provided me with focused training and a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of 3D art, from modeling and animation to VFX.
Through specialized education, I gained expertise and practical skills specific to 3D Character Art, which has been invaluable in launching my career. It allowed me to develop a deep understanding of character design, sculpting, texturing, rigging, and animation techniques.
Furthermore, one of the standout features of the program was the opportunity to work closely with a mentor during my final term. Having a dedicated mentor helped me refine my skills and create a compelling demo reel, which is crucial for showcasing my abilities to potential employers.
TT: There seems to be a touch of fantasy in many of your characters in your portfolio. What draws you to this more fantastical and surrealist style?
RL: As an artist, I am drawn to the fantastical and surrealist style in my character creations. This inclination can be attributed to my childhood experiences with fantasy-themed games and movies, such as Warcraft and Lord of the Rings. These immersive worlds sparked my imagination and left a lasting impression on me.
I am fascinated by the challenge of replicating real-life materials in a game engine. It allows me to create immersive and visually authentic experiences for viewers. By carefully studying the characteristics and textures of various materials, I strive to recreate them with accuracy in the digital realm. This process involves advanced techniques such as shader development and texture mapping. Replicating real-life materials enhances the player's sense of immersion and bridges the gap between the virtual and physical worlds. It adds depth and believability to the game, elevating the overall gaming experience.
TT: Have you always wanted to be a 3D Character Artist? Describe your personal journey.
RL: Becoming a 3D Character Artist wasn't always my initial aspiration. I have always had a passion for creativity and a deep connection with video games since I grew up alongside them.
As I began my journey in the field and gained experience creating characters, I discovered my affinity and enjoyment for bringing these virtual beings to life. Working as a 3D Character Artist allowed me to combine my love for art, storytelling, and the gaming medium. However, as time went on and my skills grew, I found myself increasingly drawn to other aspects of the creative process. I developed an interest in environments, special effects, animation, and other elements that contribute to the immersive experience. This curiosity led me to explore and expand my skills beyond character creation.
My personal journey as a 3D artist has been an evolving one. While I initially set out to become a 3D Character Artist, my passion for creativity has guided me to embrace new areas and techniques within the field. This continuous exploration has enriched my skills and allowed me to contribute to different aspects of the creative process. Ultimately, my journey has been one of growth, discovery, and adaptation. I remain open to new opportunities and challenges, always seeking to expand my horizons and push the boundaries of my creativity in the dynamic world of 3D art and design.
TT: You won 2016 Rookie of the Year in the Next-Gen Gaming Category. Can you describe your project for this award, and what it meant to receive it?
RL: Winning the 2016 Rookie of the Year in the Next-Gen Gaming Category was a momentous achievement in my career. The award recognized my project, which showcased my artistic and technical prowess in creating visually captivating game assets. The project involved meticulous attention to detail, extensive research, and an innovative approach to character design.
Receiving the award was a tremendous honor and validation of my hard work, dedication, and creative vision. It provided a sense of accomplishment and reinforced my confidence as a 3D Character Artist. The recognition from industry professionals and peers meant a great deal to me and served as a significant milestone in my artistic journey.
TT: Did winning the Rookies help your career at all?
RL: Winning the Rookies award had a notable impact on my career trajectory. It elevated my visibility within the industry, enabling me to connect with influential professionals and organizations. The recognition helped open doors to exciting opportunities, including collaborations with renowned studios and exposure to larger-scale projects. It also served as a testament to my skills and abilities, instilling confidence in potential clients and employers.
Beyond the immediate benefits, winning the Rookies award boosted my confidence as an artist. It provided validation for the path I had chosen and motivated me to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity. The award served as a springboard for further growth and solidified my position as a respected and accomplished 3D Character Artist in the industry.
TT: Can you talk a bit about what it's like to work in Vietnam? What are some of the opportunities available to CG artists right now?
RL: Working in Vietnam's CG industry offers diverse opportunities and challenges. The sector is growing, with demand for CG artists in film, advertising, gaming, and animation. Vietnam's creative community is expanding, with studios and production houses catering to both domestic and international AAA projects.
TT: You're now an Art Director...is there a next step that you want to take in your career?
RL: As an Art Director, my current aspiration is to take my career to the next level by realizing a long-standing dream: creating my own intellectual property (IP) and establishing a game development studio in Vietnam. This endeavor would allow me to combine my passion for creativity, storytelling, and immersive gameplay.
By crafting a unique and compelling IP, I aim to captivate players with captivating narratives, stunning visuals, and unforgettable experiences. I envision a world where players can immerse themselves in richly detailed environments and connect with engaging characters.
Furthermore, establishing a game development studio in Vietnam holds immense importance to me. I believe in the untapped potential of the local industry and the exceptional talent that resides within the country. Through my studio, I aspire to provide a platform for these talented individuals to showcase their skills and contribute to the global gaming landscape. Together, we would create high-quality AAA games that push the boundaries of artistic expression and captivate players worldwide.
TT: Any shout outs you'd like to give?
RL: I would like to give a shout out to all the individuals who are hesitant about pursuing a career in this field. My message to you is to follow your dreams and passions. I started from scratch with no artistic background, but through determination and continuous learning, I was able to succeed. I want to assure everyone that if you genuinely love this field, you can pursue it, regardless of your starting point. Believe in yourself, embrace the learning process, and never underestimate the power of passion.
For a closer look into Ray’s career and art, check out his website and Artstation.
Join Mozaik Play in Vietnam
Are you an aspiring 3D artist based in Vietnam? Mozaik Play is an international organization dedicated to connecting students to the best creative schools around the world. If you're in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City this July, be sure to attend one of Mozaik’s two Vietnam XPOs to take part in workshops, learn about scholarship opportunities, speak to professional artists and get a look at what options exist for you to take the next step in your creative education.
For more details and to register for this event, click here. We’ll see you there!
