Meet Niraj Sarvaiya | 3D Environment and Prop Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Niraj Sarvaiya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Niraj, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Technology never neglects to astound me. Consistently we see new advancements being made, making the impossible possible. One such piece of technology that is conspicuous to me is Computers. It was the start of another period, with a huge measure of conceivable outcomes and new areas to be explored. Video games are one such example of outcomes that stand out to me. Not only had it bought fun with it but also ample opportunities. One can play video games on almost any computer irrespective of their size, specifications, and price. Due to this, the number of people engrossed in gaming is increasing day by day thus generating a significant amount of money in the entertainment industry. This energizes me to need to be essential for the gaming industry and I believe that I have everything necessary to be one of the desirable video game makers.

My fascination for games goes long back to my childhood. I recall my first experience with video games on my seventh birthday when my parents gifted me a Nintendo console. Since then my passion for games has always peaked. Apart from this, I was always inquisitive about games and how they were created. It was only after my 10+2, that I stumbled upon the Game Design and Development course. And without any hesitation, I applied for it. My first year of undergrad at ADYPU introduced me to various fields in the industry like Programming, Art, Design, and etcetera. Given my penchant for Arts, I scored more in artistic ones than all other subjects. This motivated me to pursue Arts/Technical Arts with Design in my college. I focused more on 3D as I found it very relaxing and enjoyable. I started volunteering as a ‘3D Generalist’ in groups where we designed and made several games.

It was here when I discovered my passion for world-building and started digging deeper into the world of 3D Arts.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
During the final year of my undergrads, my friends and I embarked on a journey to create a realistic AAA-like first-person shooter. I started by building a modular asset pack for our ‘space-themed’ game. I worked on the levels and built the environment, right from the concept, and made it game-ready within a month. Later, I worked on Props and other small assets for the game. Through this project, I learned various aspects of 3D art and prototyping. It was this project that infused an idea in me of being a Prop / Environment artist.

I Model, Texture, Light, and Render using various industrial software such as Autodesk Maya, Zbrush, Substance Suite, and Adobe Creative Suite. One thing that I think sets me apart is my skill of world-building. I use Unreal Game Engine and Unity Engine to make environments with varied art styles and aesthetics.

One thing that I am most proud of is my academic achievements. I graduated top of the class from Ajeenkya DY Patil University and was conferred with a medal of excellence. I also faced a lot of hurdles but managed to overcome them with a little determination and passion for my work. The biggest challenge I am facing right now is the job market.

The video games industry is going through a rough patch where we hear about lay-offs or shutdowns almost every week. There are several things I learned during my hunt. One is to not take this personally and go into a cycle of self-doubt. Instead, use this time to build connections and improve your art constantly.

I believe that if you have a good personality and a brilliant portfolio, then no recession or other factors can stop you from getting hired,

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve been living in Savannah, GA for a couple of years now and am deeply in love with this place. The best way to explore Savannah is on foot. Walking the whole downtown underneath the lush Spanish mosh roads and seeing beautiful architecture.

Whenever my friends are in town, I take them to the best food spots in town such as Collin’s Quarter, Green Truck Pub, Common Thread, and Bella Napoli. You get one of the best Tiramisu at FraLi Gourmet.

I also recommend checking out spots such as Bonaventure Cemetry, Botanical Gardens, Skidaway Island State Park, and Isle of Hope.

For a day trip, I usually drive to Charleston, SC in the morning and end the day at Hilton Head Beach.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First of all, I want to thank my mentor Kalpesh Barot who guided me throughout my life. I am what I am today because of him. He not only helped me recognize the potential in me but made me a better person.

My professor and peers at SCAD have always inspired me to be a better artist. Seeing their work made me perform better. I have not only gathered a plethora of knowledge here but also developed as an overall person. It made me ready for the challenges that life might surprise me ahead.

Website: https://www.artstation.com/nirajsarvaiya

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niraj_sarvaiya/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nirajsarvaiya/