2D Concept Artists (Characters & Environments)

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Rustling Leaves Games is an indie studio focused on creating emotional, narrative-driven interactive experiences. We’re a small, collaborative team building thoughtful and atmospheric games, and we’re looking for 2D Concept Artists (Characters & Environments) to help define the mood, tone, and visuals of our environments and characters.

Role Overview

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As a 2D Concept Artist, you will be responsible for creating visually compelling character and/or environment designs that define the look and feel of our world. Your work will serve as the foundation for 3D production, ensuring assets are both artistically strong and technically translatable, while supporting the project’s overall narrative and emotional tone.

This is a volunteer role, but we strive to create a professional, supportive, and growth-focused environment.

What You’ll Do

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• Create high-quality concept art for both characters and environments
• Design realistic characters across diverse ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities
• Develop immersive environments, including interiors, exteriors, and natural landscapes
• Produce clean, consistent turnarounds and reference sheets for 3D artists
• Collaborate closely with art and 3D teams to ensure visual cohesion
• Use lighting, composition, and color to enhance mood and narrative
• Contribute to promotional or key art when needed

What We’re Looking For

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• Strong understanding of realistic human anatomy and proportions
• Solid grasp of perspective, composition, and lighting
• Ability to work in a semi-realistic/painterly style
• Experience creating production-ready concept sheets and references
• A portfolio demonstrating both character and/or environment design skills
• Strong communication and openness to feedback and iteration

Bonus Points

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• Experience with creature or non-human design
• Familiarity with 3D pipelines and working alongside 3D artists
• Background in game development or environmental storytelling
• Experience creating promotional or key art

Our Commitment

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At Rustling Leaves Games, we are a volunteer-based, non-commission studio, but that doesn’t limit our ambition or our dedication to the people who join us. Our mission is to help every team member grow professionally in the video game industry while contributing to meaningful, story-driven experiences.

We aim to cultivate a studio built on passion, drive, communication, and mutual respect. Diverse perspectives lead to richer worlds and better stories, and we are fully committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for everyone who becomes part of our team.

Together, we strive to create a place where creatives, developers, and storytellers can learn, collaborate, and build something truly special.