Internship at Fortiche Production: Julie's Experience

INTERVIEW

At MoPA, students follow both theoretical and practical courses. In the 3D Animation Cinema program, classes span five years after a preparatory year.

The first cycle, from the 1st to the 3rd year, focuses on acquiring artistic fundamentals and the animation film production process. The second cycle, however, is aimed at refinement and professionalization.

In this context, MoPA students undertake internships in various types of organizations. Julie shares her experience working in a production studio.

 

• Can you briefly introduce yourself?

My name is Julie (Mitsu) Guillerm, and I just completed my Master's degree in 3D Animation Design and Direction at MoPA.

 

• Can you introduce the company where you interned?​

I was fortunate to be selected for an internship at Fortiche Production. The studio, located in Paris, is well-known for the series Arcane, based on the League of Legends universe.

• Why did you choose this company for your internship?​

I was looking for an internship to validate my degree and applied to several studios without success... When I saw Fortiche Production was opening internships, I immediately applied for positions in groom and CFX. My choice was based on the fact that I had just specialized in these areas during our graduation film Au Gré Du Vent; this internship was the perfect opportunity to continue in this artistic direction.

Photo from the movie "Au Gré Du Vent", graduation film made by Julie and her teammates during their last year at MoPA. 

 

• What was your position and your main tasks?

I worked in the groom department, which involves creating hair, fur, and feathers for characters. My tasks were in the form of exercises aimed at training us both in Fortiche's artistic direction and using their tools. I worked on recreating character hairstyles from the Arcane series, including creating the groom, textures, and renders.

 

• What impressed you the most about this field and this profession?

The attention to detail: I really felt the artistic side, even though the groom also requires technical skills. A groom artist juggles between various software programs and must master them.

 

• What are, in your opinion, the essential qualities to succeed in this role?

Grooming is primarily about observation, precision, and passion. It is important to have an artistic eye and a good sense of detail. Of course, practice and referencing are key to improving in this field.

 

• What types of projects did you have the opportunity to work on?​

Apart from the exercises mentioned earlier, I cannot say much more due to confidentiality reasons. All I can say is that it will be an exciting project! I worked on the hairstyles of two secondary characters and the eyebrows of another, but every beginning has its steps.

 

• What tools or software did you learn to use during your internship?​

Houdini was my faithful companion throughout the internship, but I also learned to use two other software programs: Mari and Guerilla.

 

• Did the internship help you acquire new skills?​

Beyond the technical skills, the internship taught me how to adapt to an animation studio's pipeline and pushed me to think deeper in my work.

 

• Did this internship confirm your career choice or inspire you to explore other fields?

The internship confirmed my desire to continue in this field. It motivated me to pursue more studio opportunities to gain new experiences.

 

• What advice would you give to future MoPA students seeking an internship?

First and foremost: don't get discouraged! It's essential to keep your demo reel filled with varied and personal projects. And most importantly: be yourself!

 

• Finally, what are your plans or aspirations after MoPA?

I will continue to practice what I've learned during my internship to improve my work. For now, my priority is to apply for junior groom positions. I'd also love the opportunity to work abroad. Once I'm more experienced, I hope to return to Fortiche!

 

We thank Julie for sharing her experience at a prestigious studio like Fortiche Production. We wish her all the best in the next steps of her journey!