Creating a portfolio piece in an existing universe like Harry Potter

Livvy

Hello everyone,
I am a student and currently planning a new portfolio piece. A game environment in UE4. I am currently researching the setting and landscape I want to create. I was wondering if I could create an environment that would enhance / take place in an existing universe like Harry Potter and put it in a professional portfolio. For me it would be interesting and fun to create a new setting that follows the rules and style of an existing universe. How is your perspective on that? Would it be perceived as fanart and less worthy or is it just about the quality and the setting itself doesn't matter that much?
I know that many artists create artwork in existing universes, but I don't know if they put these pieces in a portfolio when they apply for jobs in the industry.

Thanks for your help.

Cay

I think if you take an existing universe.. and the person looking at it likes that IP and your work is recognizable as part of that universe.. well then you just won. Things we already are emotionally attached to just have much more impact than a generic scifi corridor or a prop. There's a study on how it releases more dopamin.. anyways.. derailing. I don't see any reason why you shouldn't do it if you want to.

Joebewon

I think when it comes to fan-art/re-creating an existing IP it really comes down to making it better than the original and putting your own spin on it.  It would be considered as fan art, but if the whole environment looks amazing I don't think anyone is going to knock you for that.  

At the end of the day I don't think I don't think a whole portfolio should be built on fan-art.  But, if you're really passionate about wanting to create an environment off someone else's concept do it and obviously give credit where it's due. 

Hope this helps and good luck!