Ross McIntosh
Contract Environment Artist
Bio
SAE Glasgow Game Art & Animation alumnus Ross McIntosh has built a thriving career as a contract environment artist, contributing to major game franchises while also sharing his expertise as a former lecturer at SAE.
Graduating in 2020 during the height of the Covid-19 lockdown, Ross faced a challenging start to his career when several planned internships were cancelled. However, his background as a freelance graphic artist gave him the flexibility and adaptability to pivot quickly. Drawing on his creative foundation, he began building a career in game art through contract work, steadily establishing himself within the industry.
Soon after graduating, Ross returned to SAE Glasgow as a lecturer, teaching the Environment Art elective and Advanced Specialised Project modules. Having been a student himself not long before, he brought a relatable perspective to the classroom and took pride in mentoring aspiring artists preparing for careers in games. His time as a lecturer not only deepened his understanding of the craft but also strengthened his passion for nurturing creative talent.
After his teaching tenure, Ross transitioned fully into the games industry as a contract environment artist, working with studios across the UK and internationally. Many of his roles have come through large co-development organisations such as Electric Square (Brighton), known for collaborating on AAA titles like Diablo IV, Assassin’s Creed, Need for Speed, and Battlefield.
Ross thrives in this dynamic environment, where each new project offers exposure to diverse production pipelines, artistic styles, and team cultures. The variety has accelerated his professional growth, allowing him to continuously refine his technical skills and creative approach.
While much of his recent work is under non-disclosure agreements, Ross has contributed to several major franchises – including titles he grew up playing – which he describes as both surreal and deeply fulfilling.
One particular highlight was his work on Silent Hill: Townfall, developed by Screen Burn Interactive (formerly No Code Studio). As a lifelong fan of the series, contributing to the Silent Hill universe was a full-circle achievement and a personal milestone.
Earlier in his journey, one of Ross’s student projects was featured in EPIC’s Unreal Student Showreel, only his second project using Unreal Engine. The recognition provided a huge confidence boost and later earned him the SAE Award for Best Game Art Project, an early indicator of his potential as a professional artist.
Some of Ross’s career highlights include:
- Contributing as an Environment Artist on major game franchises (including Silent Hill: Townfall)
- Teaching as a Lecturer at SAE Glasgow, mentoring aspiring game artists
- Working with Electric Square and other studios on AAA titles such as Diablo IV, Assassin’s Creed, and Battlefield
- Having student work featured in EPIC’s Unreal Student Showreel
- Winning the SAE Award for Best Game Art Project
Ross credits SAE Glasgow with giving him the structure and focus needed to transition into the games industry. As a mature student, he found the accelerated degree format ideal for maintaining momentum and quickly developing industry-ready skills.
“SAE gave me the structure and environment I needed to transition into game art. The lecturers were passionate, approachable, and dedicated to helping us succeed,” Ross reflects. “That sense of community and collaboration pushed me to keep improving every semester.”
His advice for future SAE students is:
“Every professional started in the same place. Stay patient, keep practising, and enjoy the process of learning. With dedication and curiosity, you can progress from beginner to professional.”
Study GAME ART & ANIMATION at SAE
SAE offers two and three year degree courses in growth creative media industries including Game Design, Game Art and Animation and Games Programming – all aimed at helping the next generation of creative professionals get ahead.
From our expert tutors to our cutting-edge computer labs, SAE’s degree will enable you to master a range of both technical and practical industry-relevant skills.
