[FRAMED] Texture Artist, Tapas Das, Mumbai

If you could travel back in time, which film, TV series, advert, or immersive project would you love to have worked on?

That sounds incredible! Working as a Texture Artist on the 2020 film Dolittle must have been an exciting opportunity. As part of the Asset team, I would have played a vital role in bringing the film’s animals and fantastical world to life on the big screen. My responsibility would have been to add detailed textures and surface qualities to characters, creatures, and props — enhancing their realism and visual richness. Collaborating with such a talented team would have made the experience even more rewarding.

Similarly, being a Lookdev Artist on The Last of Us (2023) TV series must have been an extraordinary experience. Look development is crucial in shaping the visual style and atmosphere of a project, especially for a series renowned for its immersive and cinematic storytelling. Contributing to such a high-profile production would have been both challenging and immensely fulfilling.

Which Framestore character do you feel you’re most like?

Oh, that’s a fun question! Framestore has brought so many iconic characters to life, but if I had to compare myself to one, I’d say I’m most like ‘Groot’ from Guardians of the Galaxy. Groot may not say much, but he has depth, complexity, and a strong sense of loyalty. He’s dependable, adaptable, and always growing — just like me!

Of course, there are many incredible Framestore characters I could relate to in different ways, but Groot’s blend of simplicity, resilience, and evolution resonates with me the most.

What fictional world or place would you like to visit?

Oh, there are so many fascinating fictional worlds I’d love to visit! One of the first that comes to mind is the magical world of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Who wouldn’t want to explore the halls of Hogwarts, browse the shops in Diagon Alley, or experience the charm of Hogsmeade?

Your career highlight to date:

Seeing my name on the big screen after working on visually stunning films will always be one of my greatest professional highlights.

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in VFX?

Growing up, I loved watching cartoons, animated shows, and playing video games. I also enjoyed drawing, which sparked my interest in the creative arts. After finishing college, I began exploring career options and came across visual effects (VFX) and graphic design. Intrigued, I researched both fields further and ultimately decided that enrolling in a VFX college in my hometown was the best path for me.

The DREAM project would entail:

My dream project would involve creating something futuristic — whether it’s a creature, machine, or spacecraft — that we can bring to life on our workstations.

How do you explain what you do to someone who doesn’t work in VFX?

Alright, picture this: Do you know those scenes in movies where the character is riding a dragon or fighting off aliens? Well, I’m the one who makes it all look real, even though it’s just a green puppet. I use computer magic to make it seem like anything can happen on screen.

Describe your career journey into the exciting world of VFX.

After completing my graduate degree, I pursued professional courses in animation and VFX in my hometown. I started my career as a 3D Generalist before transitioning into character surfacing. Over time, I gained experience at various studios, refining my skills and taking on larger, more exciting projects as a Texture and Lookdev Artist. Today, I’m proud to be working as a Senior Texture Artist at Framestore.

What does a day in the life of a Texture Artist look like?

My day usually begins with a cup of tea and greeting my colleagues. Then, I spend some time researching textures. Most of my workday is spent painting textures, using software such as Substance Painter or Mari. Sometimes, I meet with other artists to discuss ideas. In the afternoon, I take a break from the screen, grab some food, and catch up with my colleagues. After that, I generally have daily calls. As the day comes to an end, I take a moment to review the progress I’ve made and make any final adjustments that need to be done before I log off.

Framestore is, to you, in three words:

Creativity, Opportunity and Work-Life Balance.

Best thing about your work environment?

I love working with talented and inspiring people every day. It’s amazing to be part of a team that’s not only skilled but also supportive and fun to work with. Having a relaxed, collaborative environment where coworkers feel like friends makes all the difference. I truly appreciate the value of teamwork and mutual respect in creating something great together.

Framestore is great at:

A pleasant work environment and a well-organised pipeline that allows artists to grow comfortably. We are grateful for the opportunity to work on amazing projects that connect people worldwide.

Favorite artform?

Photography captures a moment in time with just one click, conveying emotions, telling stories, and showcasing the world’s beauty.

Favorite image?

What’s your favourite movie/ series/ advert/ immersive experience and why?

I love watching all kinds of movies, but Black Panther is my absolute favorite. It’s a fantastic film that goes beyond thrilling superhero action, exploring deep themes of family, identity, and responsibility. The movie features a diverse and talented cast, each bringing unique personalities and motivations to the story. On top of that, the stunning visuals — from the vibrant landscapes of Wakanda to the cutting-edge technology and beautifully designed costumes — make it truly one of a kind.

What is the last piece of art that inspired you?

A photograph of a mountain range and a sunset over the ocean beautifully captured the serenity of nature. The vibrant colors and breathtaking scenery were truly inspiring for me.

How do you unlock your creativity?

I unlock my creativity by collaborating with my colleagues, sharing ideas, and learning from each other. I also keep exploring new techniques through personal projects and stay inspired by observing the world around me.

From where do you seek inspiration?

My inspiration comes from exploring new places, traveling, and just looking around. I also spend a lot of time browsing the Internet.

Who in the industry do you admire most and why?

All my supervisors and seniors have played a vital role in helping me achieve success and exceed my limitations.

Share the best piece of advice you’ve ever received:

“Believe in yourself, stay curious, keep trying, and never stop learning.”

What tech/innovation could you not live without?

The computer and the internet are two innovations that are essential for me!

What tech/innovation deserves the hype?

I believe that VR and AR technologies are fascinating because they can provide immersive experiences in gaming, education, and training. It is worth the hype!

What tech do you need that hasn’t been invented yet?

Quantum computers are like supercomputers — but way more powerful. They can tackle problems that traditional computers struggle with, opening up incredible possibilities for research and innovation. It would be amazing if quantum computing became widely accessible, allowing more people to explore advanced simulations, groundbreaking discoveries, and new technological frontiers.

Tapas Das, you’ve been [FRAMED].