"On every phase of the creative process, from early brainstorming to content creation, Johnnie constanly shows a level of creativity and skill that impresses even a 10 year veteran like me. Johnnie openly pulls from his deep reservoir of artistic knowledge, games, books, movies, and personal experiences to create compelling environments and awesome creatures. His passion, technical know-how, and deep understanding of the latest tools are completely evident in the speed by which he achieves his visual creations. I can honestly say that Johnnie is one of the most well rounded, technically-solid digital artists that I know. His creativity and professionalism is overshadowed only by his genuine and likeable character. time after time our Blizzard art and design team come to count him for answers to technical and artistic questions. He exemplifies the consummate artist who honestly expresses himself through his creative work."
-Gary Carbonell, Senior Environment artist, BLizzard Entertainment
"During the time at Blizzard Entertainment, Johnnie proved to be a greatest asset to our development team. Without Johnnie's artistic skill, creative vision and enthusiasm I feel the team would not have reached its full potential. He is very knowledgeable of old, current and new technologies and he has a vivid and contagious passion for vidoe games and in keeping up to date with digital art content creation techniques from film and video games. he can communicate ideas extremely well both verbally and artistically. He is a pioneer in all aspects of digital artwork creation so I absolutly recommend Johnnie Estill with no reservations."
“Johnnie is an eager passionate artist who takes his position and creativity very seriously. He has a natural talent for color theory that makes him a natural lighting artist. I really enjoyed working with Johnnie.”
-Matthew Bell, Art Director at The Amazing Society, Lead Artist, Blizzard Entertainment
“When comes to lighting, I personally love his work. He once gave me 20 minutes of understanding the lighting; I learned more than I ever learn from him than anyone! His artwork is just amazing!”
-Tau Peng Lim, Creative Director at Neverdie Studios
“As a friend, colleague and alumnus of The Art Institute of California – Orange County, Over the Past nine years, I have worked closely with Johnnie Estill on many occasions. Johnnie is a dedicated teacher and professional that always gives of himself to whoever needs his knowledge and support.”
-Jim Rivers, Hiring Manager at Obsidian Entertainment
“Johnnie is a great teacher. I learned lot from him! not only texturing techniques but also the importance of being artist. He has over 300 students but he takes good care of us all. I would highly recommend anyone who is looking for a job in CG industry seek out Johnnie as a teacher. You should take his class!”
-Masa Narita,Student and freelance artist, Gnomon School of Visual Effects
"Johnnie is the person you want to have not only as a great friend, but as an instructor. He is dedicated to teaching and creating art. He works hard and makes sure that what he is trying to teach gets across to his students. I have known Johnnie going on seven years now, not only as a fellow student but as a friend. Not once have I heard him complain about his work, he truly loves what he does. He will help anyone that asks for it and even contribute ideas about the subject at hand. He is a free thinker and an idea generator. He draws off of life experiences and brings it to his profession. When in an artist position I have heard people say that his color theory, and lighting are his strong suits, I’d agree however, he is a master at modeling as well. His speed is mind boggling to most people who witness him at work. He would be a most valuable asset to any company."
-Colin Koestler, Environment Artist at Double Helix Studios
“Johnnie is a person that changes your life. As a teacher, he talks to you as an equal, and a friend. Johnnie's knowledge of 3D and traditional art, make him a key player on any team. He wants his students to be the best that they can be. If a studio was to make a clone army, he would be the first model.”
