Rockstar Games Inspires Future Artists During Workshop with High School of Art & Design

On Thursday, May 16, the Society of Illustrators hosted a group of junior & senior High School of Art & Design students for a unique and inspiring workshop led by Greg Opalinski, Director of Illustration at Rockstar Games. This workshop offered students the opportunity to gain insights from a leading professional in the art and gaming industry.

Greg Opalinski began the program by sharing his educational background and early career experiences. He recounted his college days, filled with rigorous training and a passion for art, and how he transitioned into his professional career.

The rest of the workshop centered on a hands-on activity using photo reference. Each participant was given tracing paper, clipboards, markers, pencils, and the same reference photo to work with. Opalinski encouraged the students to see beyond the photo’s surface and infuse their unique perspectives into the drawings. This exercise was more than just tracing—it was about reinterpretation and transformation. Opalinski demonstrated techniques to alter compositions and personalize the images. The students’ drawings began to evolve from copies to original pieces of art, each expressing their own artistic style. Each piece was then put on display to view and discuss as a group.

Afterward, students had the opportunity to speak with Opalinski one-on-one to show their portfolio and ask any further questions. By the end of the workshop, the students had not only exercised their technical skills but also gained invaluable insights into the professional world of illustration and game art. Opalinski’s guidance and expertise offered a glimpse into what it takes to succeed in such a competitive field. His emphasis on creativity, adaptation, and continuous learning resonated with everyone who attended.

This program was offered with the support of Rockstar Games as part of the Fall 2023/Spring 2024 High School Career Exploration & Portfolio Building Workshops. Through this initiative students were given the unique opportunity to learn from industry professionals and gain practical experience to enhance their artistic skills and portfolios.