Member Profile: Antonio Bonet
1. What do you do, and how long have you been doing it?
I became a designer by accident, initially aspiring to be a pilot. My curiosity led me to computer graphics, starting with flight simulation software. I began learning various tools, programming, and designing mods. While I’ve always been interested in this field, I formally started my journey in 2018 when I began my higher education studies. Today, I focus on 3D Environment Art, Tech Art, and Product Design (UI/UX).
2. What was your first job?
My first job in high school was as a business representative for a digital trading exchange firm. In the industry, my first role was an internship at Dekogon Studios during my studies at Think Tank Training Centre.
3. Where did you complete your formal education?
I began my 3D studies at Think Tank Training Centre. Currently, I am pursuing a bachelor’s in Interaction Design from Harbour.Space University, expecting to graduate in fall 2024.
4. How did you first get involved with ACM SIGGRAPH?
During my internship at Think Tank, I discovered talks and papers about Unreal Engine, shaders, and lighting, leading me to SIGGRAPH. Intrigued, I joined the Student Volunteer program at the LA conference that year. As a computer nerd, it was a great chance to get closer to the industry.
5. What is your favorite memory of a SIGGRAPH conference?
I’ve had many unforgettable moments, from technical talks to after-hours meet-ups. However, experiencing my first Real-Time Live! and Animation Festival in 2019 was truly memorable.
6. Describe a project that you would like to share with the ACM SIGGRAPH community.
I’ve started writing design-related essays and plan to share them with the community.
Additionally, I’d like to showcase one of my 3D reel environments, a lived-in hangar
interior scene rendered in Unreal Engine. This project served as my technical demo,
allowing me to explore workflows in other software such as Houdini and delve into tech
art. I created complex shaders, generated procedural content, and passionately crafted
each asset. My work can be found here: behance.net/abonetp
7. If you could have dinner with one living or non-living person, who would it be and why?
Ash Thorp! I met him briefly once, but we didn’t have a moment to share. I look up to how he portrays himself and unleashes his creativity. His mindset as an artist is incredibly inspiring. His continuous reinvention and passion for his work have significantly influenced how I see myself as a creative person.
8. What is something most people don’t know about you?
Despite my outgoing attitude, I am quite introverted. Additionally, I am fluent in Spanish and English but used to study French, Mandarin, Catalan, and German. Unfortunately, just keeping a Duolingo streak didn’t do it without someone to speak with face to face, and I’ve lost most of my knowledge in those languages.
9. From which single individual have you learned the most in your life? What did they teach you?
My father. His resilience, positive outlook, and empathy have taught me to care for others and stay optimistic. He encouraged me to be ambitious and unafraid of failure, shaping my attitude and values.
10. Is there someone in particular who has influenced your decision to work with ACM SIGGRAPH?
While there wasn’t a single individual, Shuyi Yang, an alumna from Think Tank, was the first person to introduce me to others in SIGGRAPH. Over the years, witnessing each member’s dedication and effort into the community has inspired me to stay involved and continue my contributions.
11. What can you point to in your career as your proudest moment?
Although my career is just beginning, I’m proud of working with agencies like YummyColours on their annual collaborative project, which was recently featured at the Brooklyn Museum. Leading a team on a Sky brief for the D&AD New Blood Awards, where we envisioned the experience of inclusive smart homes and won a pencil award, which is one of the most prestigious in the creative industry, was quite a surprise.
My teammates and I decided to join last minute and put every effort into it without expecting anything, just to see what we could achieve in such a tight timeline. This experience, along with others, has made this year an enriching chapter in my young career.
Much of my success is owed to those around me, from whom I continue to learn. Meeting like-minded people at SIGGRAPH has been invaluable, and I hope to remain involved post-graduation, whether by presenting a project or helping shape the future of SIGGRAPH.