Dynamic Shapes for VisDev by Lea Pinto

This 8-week class is all about getting control over your shapes and references. You’ll learn how to stop copying and start interpreting, using value and design to make your paintings hit harder. Whether you’re aiming for film, games, or TV, the focus is on building a solid, repeatable process that works for any stylized project.

🎯 What you’ll learn

• Deconstruct references and art directions to find what makes them work
• Use value effectively to create impactful shape decisions
• Build a personal artistic path through testing and curiosity
• Create moodboards and B/W photobashes to prep your paintings
• Transition from black-and-white layouts to full color renders
• Apply post-production effects and get tips on freelancing and social media

✅ Requirements

• Skills: All skill levels welcome; no prior experience needed
• Tools: Any digital or traditional mediums; paintovers will be done digitally
• Hardware: A computer capable of running your chosen digital art software

📝 Description

This isn’t a “paint what you see” class. Léa Pinto pushes you to think about shape design as a tool for storytelling. The core idea is that every mark you make should be intentional, and that starts with how you handle your references.

You’ll spend the first few weeks learning to deconstruct images—not just copying them, but understanding why a certain composition works or how a specific value structure creates mood. Then you’ll test different processes to find your own voice, rather than following a rigid formula. The second half of the course is about building a painting from scratch: starting with a moodboard and B/W photobash, then layering in color and finishing with post-production effects.

Léa also shares practical advice on freelancing and social media, so you leave with not just a portfolio piece, but a clearer idea of how to navigate the industry. The live format includes demos, lectures, and direct feedback, so you’re not just watching—you’re actively iterating.

🧑‍🎓 Who this course is for

• Artists who want to move from copying references to interpreting them
• Beginners looking for a structured, foundational approach to visual development
• Experienced painters who feel stuck and want to break out of their comfort zone
• Anyone aiming for a career in film, games, or TV concept art

🧑‍🏫 About the Author

Léa Pinto is a concept artist and background painter with a client list that includes Sony Pictures Animation, Pinkman.TV, Netflix, and HBO MAX. Her work focuses on stylized environments and strong shape language, and she brings that real-world experience into the classroom. She knows what studios look for and how to build a portfolio that gets noticed.

🏁 Final Result

• A finished, stylized painting built from your own moodboard and reference deconstruction
• A clear, repeatable process for tackling any VisDev brief
• Practical knowledge of freelancing and social media to help you land work

📢 Guys, this is a Group Buy campaign, check the GBC forum thread to get access

You can find the course preview in the download section below.