Ariel LaCroix

Versatile Creative Professional for Freelance Projects

Ariel LaCroix is an exceptional candidate for a wide range of freelance projects, bringing a decade of experience in 2D and 3D workflows and a proven track record of leadership and technical artistry. With an extensive skill set, Ariel is well-positioned to excel in roles spanning from Creative Director to Generalist Artist, Project Manager, and specialized positions like 3D Modeler or VFX Supervisor.

Ariel’s experience demonstrates the blend of creative vision, technical depth, and managerial expertise essential for freelance success:

As a former Creative Director at Rooster Teeth, Ariel managed up to 11 artists, led over 40 unique pitch projects, and took creative responsibility for all art, ensuring high-quality standards. This experience, combined with freelance Creative Director and Consultant roles, shows an ability to establish a clear narrative and artistic blueprint.

Ariel is proficient in industry-standard software like Maya, Blender, Unreal Engine, and Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator). Experience as a Lead Lighting Artist and Look Development Supervisor demonstrates expertise in enhancing mood and atmosphere, establishing lighting pipelines, and working with Physically Based Rendering (PBR) techniques. Work as a 3D Artist includes crafting captivating 3D scenes for hologram printing and modeling assets to specific parameters for 3D printing. Skills include Motion Graphics, VFX, and compositing, with work on global web series like “RWBY”.

Recognized as “Animation Employee of the Year” for leadership as CG Supervisor on the HBO Original series “gen:LOCK”. Ariel has managed project-based teams, compiled milestones, created realistic requirements for staff and budget, and delivered multiple projects early and under budget. This includes streamlining the transition of a Max Original series to an outsourced studio.

Ariel is a true generalist, with skills in animation, scripting (Python, MEL), color theory, UV mapping, and troubleshooting. The ability to debug technical issues between separate studio workflows (Maya Redshift to Katana Arnold) and re-engineer tools to cut down employee time by up to 50% highlights strong technical problem-solving.

Ariel’s portfolio includes high-profile series for Amazon Prime (“Invincible”), Paramount+ (“Ark: The Animated Series”), and feature-length films from Warner Home Video, demonstrating the ability to manage complex projects for top-tier brands. With a willingness to work remotely and a passion for mentoring and creative brainstorming, Ariel LaCroix is an adaptable, technically acute, and results-driven professional ready to deliver excellence on your next freelance project.