The learning goal will be learn fundamental drawing techniques and use them to create their own background. The student will be able to look at multiple reference photo, and draw their own unique interpretation.

Chris Chien is a professional theme park designer who has spent the last 10 years contributing to projects such as Universal Studios, Sesame Street Land, SeaWorld, Kennedy Space Center, Ferrari World and many more. As a professional concept designer and illustrator, he has created designs for many theme parks all around the world!

Chris primarily works in Photoshop, but his background in traditional mediums such as charcoal, watercolor and oil painting help gives his digital art an authentically “hand-painted” look. In addition, Chris often uses 3D software such as SketchUp, Unreal Engine and Planet Coaster to create immersive worlds.

In 2010, Chris graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a Bachelors in Industrial Design and a minor in Theater. During his time in college, Chris designed and built many award-winning Carnival Booths, which sparked his interest in themed entertainment. Afterward graduating from Carnegie Mellon, he moved to Los Angeles to study at the prestigious Concept Design Academy, studying under Hollywood’s finest professionals from Disney, Pixar, Dreamworks, Lucasfilms, Marvel, and Blizzard.
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Chris’ passion for themed entertainment and storytelling comes from exploring different countries. With his desire to learn and explore, he backpacked around the world, visiting the continents of Europe, Asia and South America - seeing castles, jungles, and temples in their natural context.  Chris’ mission in themed entertainment not just to entertain, but to also provide education and inspiration to people around the globe.
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Skills:
​• 10 years of concept art and design experience
​• 8 years of professional teaching experience (art classes for children, teens and adults)
• Experienced in theme park design, concept art for games and movies, showset design, fabrication, and scenic painting