Tim Going Independent

I am writing this article to announce my departure from working full time at CG Cookie. It seems right to keep you guys in the loop as we always try to be transparent with the inner workings here! 

As a small studio of like minded artists working towards teaching other artists how to become successful in our field, my departure from working full time at CG Cookie stands more of a testament to that mission. I want this to serve as an example for others to hopefully see not only can it happen, but it's proven. 

A quick look back:

I was hired at Cookie at the ripe age of 21, coming right out of college with an overambitious work mentality but with no real direction, biting on any concept leads offered my way. I first met Wes and Jonathan (the owners of CG Cookie) at my portfolio show and that next week was brought in for an interview with a tutorial test. Then 7 years later, I have grown so much and in large part because of this crew and their passion towards looking ahead and working hard to achieve those goals. 

My inclusion with the company started as a freelance artist creating works for Jonathan to use on the Blender side then being given a standalone Concept site to run and manage on my own. This journey along the way has been incredibly eventful and inspiring. Small companies like these are able to take risks and try different avenues and as Cookie was growing as their own brand and company, I was growing as an artist and as a person. 

Through education and teaching other artists, I was teaching myself (as cliche as it sounds). A lot of the concepts I would be required to teach, it was necessary to do research on my own so that I felt more comfortable talking about a topic. So when I needed to do an anatomy course, I was deep into looking at references, talks, and art books, learning what I could to the relative topic and coming to my own conclusion on what way to best teach these subject matters to others. It was such an analytical process that I should have done more in school and I believe is a key component to learning. And this is something I hope to leave you guys with that are still growing and learning as an artist. 

Where am I going?

I am now freshly turned 28 and the timing has never felt more right to continue forward in life as an independent artist creating works that I've long wanted to create. Cookie gave me the platform, exposure, and growing opportunity that I will always be grateful and aware of. So I thank Cookie from the bottom of my heart for taking a chance on a nobody optimistic kid who wanted to prove himself in the art world. I have a deep respect for the crew and especially to Wes for becoming like a business father figure that i was always watching his moves and determination to push through the hard times and how he handled success with grace. There are too many life lessons and business understandings I will take with me throughout my remaining days and especially with interjecting that knowledge into my independent artist lifestyle. 

So while this may seem like a sad departure or there may be skepticism on if there was something that happened on the back end that caused a rift, I can safely say and guarantee there is nothing of the sort. Time is just limited for everyone, and that clarity has forced me to question when I am finally going to work towards my own personal artistic endevors and goals. And I no longer can wait for something to spark that change, I need to make the effort to take the first step. And you may just see me pop in and out for guest streams or concept pieces in the future. 

For one last time, I just want to say thank you to CG Cookie and the small crew working here for what you not only have taught me but continue teaching others on their own path to success. I will work hard to stand as just that another testament to that mission!