Exam Information: Computer Artist
Local USA 829 Computer Artists work within the Art Departments of television shows, feature films and commercials. They produce graphics that will be seen on-camera – typically set decoration and props – as well as occasional off-camera graphics to support the production. Computer Artists most often work directly for the Production Designer and Art Director, and must also coordinate with the Set Decoration, Props and Playback departments, among others.
Computer Artists are responsible for breaking down (listing and detailing) scripted graphics, as well as reading “between the lines” of a script for additional graphics needed. The position is primarily self-directed, meaning it is often the Computer Artist’s responsibility to determine what projects need to be done, to ask for information from the various departments, to time-manage the workday, and to coordinate with vendors, attend meetings, and handle other administrative tasks in addition to completing design and production graphic work under tight deadlines.
The job of Computer Artist is the equivalent of a Senior Graphic Designer position. Applicants should have at least 2 of these 3 requirements: (1) graphic design training - college level or equivalent; comprehensive (including design concepts, design history, typography, Adobe graphic design applications, etc), (2) full-time professional graphic design experience (minimum three years in any field, may be freelance), (3) work experience in a Film/TV/Commercials Art Department (minimum 1 year as a PA, non-union Graphic Artist, etc.)
The field of computer art is constantly evolving, and Computer Artists continually grow their skills accordingly. Currently, it is expected that a Computer Artist work at an expert level in
Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop at a minimum. Knowledge of InDesign, Word or Pages, Excel or Numbers, and other software is useful. Skills in motion and prototyping applications such as After
Effects, Keynote, XD and ProtoPie are becoming more common and necessary.
If you have questions about the examination process, please contact the Exam Coordinator. For questions specifically about the Computer Artist examination, please contact the Computer Artist Exam Committee.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps of the examination process?
Step One: All applicants going through the exam process begin with a standardized application facilitated through the SurveyMonkey Apply platform. Applicants begin the process by submitting the union application form and an application fee ($75). Upon submission of these materials, the candidate’s eligibility for membership is verified by the USA 829 Business Office.
Step Two: The applicant then submits a comprehensive resume detailing work experience, education, and relevant skills and three letters of recommendation from industry professionals (one of which must be from a USA 829 member in good standing). There are also supplemental materials that an applicant must provide depending on the craft.
Applicants to the Computer Artist category must submit a portfolio containing 10 – 15 pages of original graphic design work, including these required examples:
- 1 or more pieces with emphasis on typography
- 2 or more pieces created for different historical eras (i.e. 1920s, etc.)
- 5 or more pieces exemplifying the typical projects that a Computer Artist would take on: logos, signage, packaging, newspapers and books, photo editing, patch design, etc. for the Costume Dept, graphics for screens such as smart phones, tablets, and computers, as well as certain architectural details such as artwork for CNC pieces, patterns for wallpaper or printed tiling
- Additional work that best showcases your design and production skills that best pertain to Film/TV/Commercials graphic design
The portfolio must also contain Two (2) assigned Photoshop Composites (in addition to requirements above) utilizing the CA Exam Photo Composite Assets document and submission of the Production Questionnaire. Further instructions on these tasks will be provided by the Exam Committee.
Step Three: Upon receiving a notification that they have passed forward to the next step, Computer Artist applicants sit for a Remote Practical Exam (RPE). This exam is held on a specific date, remotely, in real time. Projects are assigned on that day, and are designed to test the Applicant’s technical abilities, aesthetic design skills, ability to follow instructions, and time management skills.
Step Four: The final Step of the application process for the Computer Artist category consists of a Complete Project which will be assigned after Step 2, and is to be completed before your Step 3 Interview date, in addition to any modifications requested to your submitted Step 1 portfolio. All Applicants in an Exam cycle will be assigned the same Complete Project. On your Interview date and time, you will present your Complete Project to a panel of Judges. In addition, the Interview is an opportunity for the panel Judges to meet you, and ask you questions about your previously submitted work, as well as your experience and qualifications. Your presentation/interview time will be approximately 20-30 minutes.
How long can I expect the examination process to take?
The examination process will take place over the course of three months from initial application to completion of the Complete Project & Interview.
What materials should I prepare for the exam?
A member of the Computer Artist Exam Committee will provide you with more detailed information about the required materials. Broadly speaking, you must be prepared to provide a comprehensive resume detailing work experience, education, and relevant skills, three letters of recommendation from industry professionals (one of which must be from a USA 829 member in good standing), and a 10 - 15 page portfolio. In addition to these materials, you will sit for a Remote Practical Exam, produce a Complete Project, and attend an Interview.
What key dates and deadlines should I know about?
Friday, March 6th - Portfolio and Full Application. Deadline to submit completed application forms and $75 application fee. See full list of required documents and details in the CA Exam Booklet download.
Friday, April 3rd - Deadline to submit $75 Practical Exam Fee and Application Form
Saturday, April 11th - Remote Practical Exam (RPE) held from 9 AM to 3 PM
Friday, May 1st - Deadline to submit $50 Interview Fee and Application Form
What resources should I review for the exam?
You can review the: CA Exam Booklet, CA Exam Dates, Production Questionnaire, and Photo Comp Assets.