Denis Lakhanov
About Denis Lakhanov
Denis Lakhanov is a Senior Concept Artist at Riot Games, specializing in previs VFX concepts for VALORANT. He has an extensive background in concept art and design, having worked for various companies including Wargaming, Crytek, and Blackwood Games.
Work at Riot Games
Denis Lakhanov has been employed at Riot Games as a Senior Concept Artist since 2019. In this role, he specializes in creating previs VFX concepts aimed at enhancing player experiences in the game VALORANT. His responsibilities include developing 2D and 3D weapon concept art, which encompasses both animated and still explanations of how various mechanisms operate. He also contributes to the VALORANT Premium Content team by creating unique logos and icons, and he has developed templates to optimize and expedite workflow processes within the team.
Previous Experience in the Gaming Industry
Prior to his current position, Denis Lakhanov held several roles in the gaming industry. He worked at Wargaming as a Principal Promo Artist from 2015 to 2017 and as a Promo Artist from 2014 to 2015, both in Minsk, Belarus. He also served as a Senior Concept Artist at Crytek in Kiev, Ukraine, from 2017 to 2018. His experience includes working as a Principal Concept Artist at Blackwood Games for 11 months in 2018 and as an Illustrator at XIM, Inc. for 7 months in 2017. Additionally, he has freelanced as an Illustrator and Concept Artist for various companies.
Education and Expertise
Denis Lakhanov studied Graphic Design at Orel State University, where he earned a Master's degree from 2008 to 2011. He also attended Orel Art School, achieving a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design from 2004 to 2008. His educational background has equipped him with the skills necessary for his roles in concept art and design within the gaming industry.
Background in Design and Illustration
Denis Lakhanov began his career in design and illustration, working as a Designer at cosmigo GmbH in the Orel Region of the Russian Federation from 2013 to 2014. He also worked as a Designer at Tenderowls for 5 months in 2014. His freelance work includes roles as an Illustrator for Nuare Studio and as a Freelance Concept Artist at axis VFX in 2019. This diverse background has contributed to his proficiency in various design disciplines.