Jonathan Bliss

With over 20 years of experience in the visual effects industry, Jonathan D. Bliss has established himself as a premier CG artist, supervisor, and leader. Renowned for his CG supervision, animation, lighting, and generalist work expertise, Jonathan has contributed to award-winning projects, including Gotham and Westworld, which have been recognized with Emmy accolades. His portfolio spans high-profile television series like The Orville and Picard, feature films, television commercials, and music videos.
Jonathan's leadership shines in his ability to manage complex, high-stakes projects, where his unwavering work ethic, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence inspire his teams to deliver extraordinary results. He is celebrated for fostering collaboration and nurturing talent, mentoring junior artists into indispensable contributors while ensuring seamless communication across departments.
A trailblazer in technical innovation, Jonathan played a key role in transitioning teams to GPU rendering systems in 2014, streamlining workflows and elevating production quality. In 2008, he spearheaded the development of the CG department at 23D Films, cementing his reputation as a forward-thinking leader who drives progress.
Jonathan's artistry is deeply rooted in his understanding of motion, storytelling, and the timeless principles of animation. His diverse background spans styles and mediums—from hand-drawn 2D and stop-motion animation to cartoony CG characters for Disney XD and photorealistic effects for sci-fi series like Picard. His academic foundation includes a degree in 2D animation from the University of the Arts and advanced CG Character Animation training from Animation Mentor, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to mastering his craft.
Equally adept at the technical and artistic aspects of visual effects, Jonathan's expertise in lighting is particularly notable. Drawing on his Fine Arts education at Keystone College, he applies classical chiaroscuro techniques to digital mediums, using his knowledge of light, shadow, and color to craft scenes that elevate storytelling. His technical mastery of cameras, render engines, and compositing techniques ensures his work consistently exceeds expectations.
Jonathan's versatility as a CG Generalist makes him an invaluable asset. Whether leading teams of 30+ artists, creating captivating animations, designing intricate environments, or providing hands-on support across departments, he is a go-to professional for solving creative and technical challenges. From concept design and hard-surface modeling to surfacing, rigging, and even brewing a perfectly timed cup of coffee, Jonathan approaches every task with a passion for innovation and problem-solving.
Above all, Jonathan is driven by a desire to imagine, create, and inspire. With his blend of artistic brilliance, technical expertise, and seasoned leadership, he remains a transformative force in visual effects and a vital addition to any creative team.