[kjax89]

I recently got an associates in graphic design because I didn't exactly know what path to take to become a concept artist and didn't really know what graphic design was either. I graduated and practiced drawing and painting on my own. I didn't get my bachelors because the school was not teaching fundamentals of drawing such as perspective, composition, not even anatomy. Instead they had a painting class for beginners and the rest of the corriculum consisted of how to use adobe software. I need more training.

now career services is trying to help me get a job and though I would love to leave my current job I fear the type of job I get will hinder the training I need to become a concept artist. From what I've learned graphic design has nothing to do with designing people, places, or things. Am I wrong to feel this way? they keep saying that i need to take steps to get to my dream job but I don't think graphic design is stepping in the right direction. Any suggestions on what I should do?

[Davver]

Hey man,

I can totally understand how you feel. I was born and raised in Germany and recently moved to the US to study Concept art.
And it was really hard to find information regarding this topic and took a lot of research.
You're right, graphic design is not what you want to study. Although some aspects of design are universal, Concept art is a lot more about the design of characters, vehicles, props and environments than about company images, logos and websites.
I had a look at your gallery and you are good (the important part is that you have the creativity, you can always learn the skill), you just need some more mileage and fundamental training.
Studying concept art realated majors is expensive, but look into schools like Art Center College of Design, Gnomon School of Visual Effects, Laguna College of Art & Design (I go there) or Art institute.
There are cheaper courses at schools like Red Engine etc. that are Concept Art related, however most of them cover more advanced topics. Same thing with Gnomon, although they're videos are one of the best resources to learn. I think you need at least a semester of traditional training in figure drawing, anatomy, composition, color and design principles. You could probably take these at a community college though.
A great website that i found really helpful and I still learn from a lot, but that focuses more on the fundamentals and techniqe of digital painting is Ctrl+Paint.
In the end what matters is your portfolio and your connections to people in the industry.

Hope I got your question right and this helps somehow.

Good Luck,
David

[Amaakir]

I agree with Davver.
I studied Graphic Design in an effort to someday become a full time illustrator / concept artist. It didn't help at all and I do regret wasting my time studying graphic design.
Davver also has a great point tho, you can have all the degrees in the world and still not be a successful artist, it takes a good portfolio, which can only be achieved by true effort and dedication (Practice makes master!).
Being active on the internet with other artists helps a lot also, we are in a very social business, and being nice and helping others reach their ultimate goals goes a long way!
Anyways, those are my 2 cents

[kjax89]

thank you david and Amaakir,

also, I currently work in retail.

would you suggest i stay with that job or take a graphic design job until I can do better.