Drake Nelson is a CG Generalist specializing in 3D modeling, texturing, and animation. With a background in fine arts and a passion for creative problem-solving, he approaches each project with a balance of artistic vision and technical versatility.

His work focuses on crafting immersive visual experiences through a multidisciplinary workflow that spans sculpture, environment creation, product rendering, and motion graphics. Drawing inspiration from both traditional art foundations and contemporary CG techniques, he enjoys exploring new ideas, refining visual storytelling, and adapting across multiple areas of production.

As a recent graduate, Drake is passionate about collaboration and continuing to grow as an artist while contributing to meaningful creative projects in digital media.

B.F.A. Animation and Sculpture

Awards & Accolades

  • 2024-2026, President’s List, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX.

  • 2026, Second Place, SIGGRAPH Spacetime Gallery 2026. Los Angeles, CA. (https://education.siggraph.org/wp/spacetime/)

  • 2025, Micky Elliott College of Fine Arts Scholarship, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX.

  • 2025, Brian Phillip Joseph LeBarbera Scholarship, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX.

  • 2025, Lumberjack Transfer Renewal Scholarship, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX.

  • 2025, Honorable Mention, SIGGRAPH Spacetime Gallery 2025. Vancouver, Canada. (https://education.siggraph.org/wp/spacetime/winners-2025/)

  • 2022-2024, President’s List, LSC-Montgomery, TX.

Degrees & Certifications

  • 2026, B.F.A. Animation & Sculpture, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, TX. (Summa Cum Laude)

  • 2025, Programming in Python, Meta.

  • 2024, A.A. Associate of Arts, LSC-Montgomery, TX. (Summa Cum Laude)

Jobs & Experience

  • Incoming July 2026, SIGGRAPH Student Volunteer, Los Angeles, CA.

  • 2024-Present, Remote Office Admin, R&R Machine Works, Dalhart, TX. (Data entry, File Management, Procedure Writer, Excel Proficiency)

  • 2025, Student Assistant (Installation, Art Handling). FVA 12x12 Art Scholarship Fundraiser and Auction, The Cole Art Center, Ledbetter Gallery. Oct. 14-Nov. 8, 2026. (Assisted with installation and safe handling of artworks for a professional exhibition)

  • 2025, Student Assistant (Lighting). REFINED: The Foreseeable Future, The Cole Art Center, Reavley Gallery. Oct. 14-Jan. 4, 2026. (Assisted with staging lighting for a professional exhibition)

  • 2021-2024, Assistant Department Manager, Floor & Decor, Conroe, TX. (Sales, Efficiency, Training Others, Leadership, Department Planning & Upkeep)