faculty
Associate Faculty : Emmanual Valdez
evaldez@miracosta.edu
https://www.emmanuelvaldez.com/
Emmanuel Valdez is a visionary Art Director with over 30 years of experience shaping the look and feel of acclaimed video games across console, mobile, and PC. From co-creating the cult classic Darkwatch to leading the art direction of The Bourne Conspiracy, LEGO 2K Drive, and the iconic Ready 2 Rumble Boxing series, his creative leadership spans blockbuster AAA titles and innovative mobile hits.
A founding member of both High Moon Studios and Appy Entertainment, Emmanuel has built and led world-class art departments from the ground up—guiding teams in concept art, animation, technical art, cinematics, and more. His work has defined the visual identity of multiple studios and new IPs, while mentoring the next generation of game artists.
Currently Art Director at Autumn Games, Emmanuel has also held leadership roles at Visual Concepts (2K), Sony Computer Entertainment, Midway Home Entertainment, Daybreak Game Company, and Machine Zone.
Since 2015, he has shared his expertise as an adjunct professor in the MFA Game Design program at Laguna College of Art and Design. He also teaches 3D Modeling and Animation in the Media Arts and Technologies department at Mira Costa College.
His contributions have been featured in key industry publications, including The Art of 3D Computer Animation and Effects and Game Design: Secrets of the Sages.
Emmanuel recently joined the Board of Directors of the Art Education Connection of San Diego (AECSD). He has also served as an Industry Advisory Board member of the San Diego and Imperial County Community Colleges, as well as Mira Costa College.