As the creative industry undergoes one of its biggest transformations in recent years, Digital Blacksmith Workshop: Future of the Industry is bringing together internationally acclaimed concept artists, art directors, and creative leaders for a one-day event focused on helping artists navigate the future of their careers.
Taking place from 9AM to 6PM at Xsolla Curine Academy, KLEC, the event addresses the realities reshaping the creative landscape, from studio restructures and project cancellations, to shrinking production pipelines and the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence.
Rather than focusing on artistic techniques alone, DBS2026 is designed as a career-focused experience built around one essential question: “How do artists stay relevant, valuable, and in control of their careers in a rapidly changing industry?“
Industry Leaders Share First-Hand Experience
The workshop features an impressive lineup of internationally recognised speakers who continue to shape the global entertainment industry:
- Johnson Ting: Founder of Bear Down Studios and concept artist/art director, whose clients include Bungie, Blizzard Entertainment, Riot Games, Square Enix, and Bandai Namco.
- Jan Urschel: Art director and concept designer providing creative direction for films, games, television, and architecture, with clients including Disney, Marvel, Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros., and Lucasfilm.
- Zeen Chin: Freelance illustrator and concept artist known for his work on League of Legends, Kingdom Death, Chronos Gate, Legend of the Cryptids, and Galaxy Saga.
- Alitt Khaliq: CEO & Co-Founder of Albrite Studios and former Creative Director at Unity, with credits including Race Driver GRID, DiRT, Prince of Persia, Assassin’s Creed, and Need for Speed.
- Yintion J: Concept Artist and Illustrator whose experience includes the Call of Duty franchise, Weta Workshop, filmmaker Neill Blomkamp, and the Battlefield series.
What Participants Can Expect
Attendees will leave with practical knowledge and actionable insights, including:
- A clearer picture of where the industry is realistically heading
- Frameworks for developing your own IP and creative direction
- Practical understanding of how artists are using branding to create opportunities
- Honest discussions around AI and how it affects your role as a concept artist
- Portfolio and career feedback aligned with current industry expectations
- Connections with artists thinking seriously about long-term creative survival
Event Details
Digital Blacksmith Workshop 2026 | Future of the Industry
- Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Venue: Xsolla Curine Academy, KLEC
- Ticket Prices:
- Early Bird: RM156
- General Tickets: RM180
- Student Tickets: RM125 (Student ticket holders must present a valid student ID during registration.)
For more information and to purchase your tickets, visit https://www.digitalblacksmithschool.com/events3/p/dbw-2026
