Story telling is one of the oldest known methods of communication between humans. Legends, lessons and just talking with each other is filled with stories that help us to understand our world. Whether the story is oral, written, drawn in 2D, viewed as a series of moving images, or shown as a 3D model  – we all enjoy and learn from each method.

Abdullah Shaikh (Abu to his friends) has a naturally amazing ability to tell stories that cross all cultures and distances with his 3D models. As humans we understand and respond to his stories. That is why he is our Featured Artist!

As user name abu_roadking, Abu has been in the Top 10 thirteen times; – 027, – 028, – 029, – 030, – 032, – 033, – 034, – 037, – 038, – 039, – 040, – 041 and – 043. He also has nine Honorable Mention models to his credit;  – 027, – 029, 2 in – 031, – 032, 2 in – 036, – 038 and – 042.

Before changing his user name, Abu went by trigram_QWQ and was also in Top 10 with five models;  – 018, – 019, and 2 in – 021 and  – 024, has another two Honorable Mentions to his credit; – 020 and – 023.

A good story takes time to tell, so settle back and enjoy the many thoughts that Abu has shared with us.

Introduction:

Hmmm… where do I start??? I’m a Mechanical Engineer by education/qualification, but professionally, have been involved with Software Industry for long time now, more specifically CAD. I’m presently working as a QA engineer on CATIA.

I was born and brought up in a small town Solapur. After passing out from graduation school, I worked in a government-run workshop maintaining the State transport buses. Then, I moved to ‘urban’ places hunting for better opportunities.

Got into a software giant, started working on mainframes, but it didn’t take long time for me to realize that I wanted to make a career in CAD. I requested for an assignment change and luckily got into Engineering Services of the same company. We basically made production/piping drawings of marine engines (the really big ones with 960mm bore x 2500mm stroke). It was a mix of 2D and 3D, majorly 2D though. After about 3-4 years moved into Testing/QA domain, my present job.

On personal front, I’m happily married since last 3 years and have been blessed with daughter last year, Saarah. Marriage and kids change your life completely (I’m sure you’d understand this). Helping my better half with daily chores, feeding baby occasionally, changing diapers/nappies (rarely) and that’s life these days. Weekends are rest and visiting family at home-town every now and then (4 hours journey by train). I can’t say I’m enjoying life but I’m not complaining either. All different phases of life, you have to go thru each one of them.

Before becoming a ‘family’ man??? Well… bikes, long distance rides, trekking, volley-ball apart from voracious reading, movies, plays… the list is almost endless… I’m very much into autos… cars, bikes, trucks, planes, ships… anything that’s mechanical and is mobile… not just riding my bike but tinkering with it when I have time and enough resources (read money). [Yeah… like the author of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.]

When I was kid used to collect postal stamps, coins and currency bills. Took up reading in graduation school. Ayn Rand and Mario Puzo are my all time favourites. I read (or should it be used to read?) almost anything and everything. Fiction, non-fiction, science & technology, inspirational stuff (Paulo-Coelho-types NOT Dale-Carnegie-types), short stories, philosophy, religion, culture, biographies. I don’t claim I’ve read all these genres extensively but yes a few titles from all of them. Then of course you have Sidney Sheldon and Dan Brown :).

I also am very much into writing. I write short essays on variety of topics, editorials mainly for internal newsletters (both at my present employer and previous). Have been on editorial teams since graduation days. I was awarded 1st prize at University for an article written in “Literary Criticism” category on Mario Puzo’s “The Godfather”.

It was during working on the layouts of the newsletter issues that I got exposed to photography and photo-editing thru a good friend and deviantART.com. We used to work together on the layouts for each issue. I used to select the subject and content while he used to add effects in Photoshop. That got me interested in PS, but before I could start learning it I switched job. Let’s see if I get a chance to learn it in future.

I guess this is good enough for a ‘short’ introduction…

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?
It was AutoCAD 2000! My first interaction with the world of CAD! Although it was just a part of our curriculum, a 40-50 marks internal exam.

But I took extra efforts of learning it by joining a private training institute. Gradually moving to learning CATIA by the time I started working. Then I was exposed to I-DEAS and the world of Marine Engines. The sheer size and level of complexity hits you so hard, that it’s difficult to explain.

I was always interested in geometry throughout my schooling. This liking grew with subjects engineering drawing and machine drawing at graduation. So, lines and curves always interested me. With the addition of 3rd dimension the world became more interesting :).

Q2: Does 3D modeling play a role in the work you do?

I do 3D modeling of mostly engineering products. It may sound pretty ‘techy’ but rest assured they are simple assemblies like valves most of the times.

And these models are generally used to make drawings. In the process, we test the software. The main purpose of modeling would be to simulate industrial usage. How would it happen in actual production environment? For this we use variety of data, constructed from scratch, created by other teams, or which is actually provided by customers themselves.

That’s the 3D modeling that I do for my ‘bread and butter’. Sometime back a contest was organized in our company. We had to create models using 3DVIA Shape. That’s how work and interests got intermingled.

Q3: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?

Coming from a background where I’ve worked mostly on engineering and production drawings, 3D is an answer to the 2D riddle when you are modeling from a reference drawing. The minute model is completed, it feels like you’ve cracked a million dollar question. And of course in context of 3DVIA, the comments and appreciations from the community are the most rewarding aspect of 3D modeling here.

When I read an interesting article or passage, I almost immediately want to give it a form in 3D. This is only possible with 3DVIA where I have access to n-number of models created and shared. So it starts building up into a 3D story…

Q4: How does story telling play a role in your 3D modeling?

Like I just said, whenever someone sends me a forward or I come across a short story I start giving shape to it (story) in 3D form using the models for 3DVIA. Many times if someone shares a model (usable in Shape), that itself triggers the idea of making a scene using the shared model. For example: the Harry Potter scene that I made using actraiser’s Araneus Angulatus or prolithic’s Drunkenclam and Evreyday Inn triggered an idea for On the way to Monument Valley.

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your 3D models/images?

At this point in time it’s just CATIA and 3DVIA Shape. Tried my hand at SketchUp, but didn’t quite like it :). For the images I use MS Paint and Office Picture Manager.

Q6: How much 3D modeling time do you have in a week?

That usually varies with the kind of work that’s on hand and at what stage the testing is being done. At any given point in time there would be a CATIA session running, but “is 3D modeling going on?” is a subjective matter.
To take a break from regular work and CATIA window, a 3DVIA window opens :).

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?

Deadlines are important and equally important is the aim with which a task is taken up. So, the vision towards the end result helps you traverse the path. If you’re working in the dark without knowing the goal, you tend to lose direction. This is applicable to all tasks, large or small.

If you want me to comment on specifically a large CAD or 3D project, well, I’m not the person to make a qualified remark regarding such an endeavor. I don’t have that kind of exposure of handling a large project. I’m just a small brick in the bigger wall and I ensure it is at the place where it’s supposed to be, at the expected minute :).

Q8: Do you do 3D modeling at home on personal projects?

Nope, unfortunately I don’t have a PC at home. So whatever modeling I do is from office and is work-related. As I mentioned before, to take a break from regular work, I do modeling in 3DVIA. Or when some parallel activity is going on (like some batch processing where I can’t work on CATIA). Or at times I come to office early to play around with newer models in 3DVIA.

Q9: Do you have any thoughts on how 3D modeling can help young people as they learn about the world?

Children learning about world!!! And using 3D modeling!!! That’s a difficult one… but, yes I can certainly say that a few of the lessons of geometry can be very well demonstrated using simple 3D techniques. Ellipses and other curves can be better explained using 3D than leaving it for students’ imaginations.

Q10: Do you have any thoughts on the value of 3D modeling to help us all learn about the world?

I’ll restrict my opinions on this question to my experiences on 3DVIA. The reason for this being, unless and until you share your models with others, you cannot learn more (than what you already know). It is only when people see your creations and respond; you come to know the kind of emotions they generated with the viewers. The other side of story, if I may put it that way…

You also learn a lot by observing other people’s works. I can quote many instances. I remember learning more about Dracula thru one of sady’s comments. Many of smike’s models contain technical as well as historical information. There’s so much more to it than just the 3D models… in these cases 3D models trigger a ‘need to know more’ than what meets the eyes… you Google on the subject and read more…

The reverse way is also pretty interesting… when you start working on a model and drill down to extract more levels of detailing, you realize what seems simple at first look is in fact complex enough to make you think more. So starting from a 3D model you can explore the world outside as well as drill down deeper… a great learning experience…

Q11: Do you think 3D modeling is different in different parts of the world? How?

No. 3D modeling is the same everywhere. It’s a neutral language. I would like to quote Shakespeare on this one, “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet;” just as thoughts, ideas and emotions aren’t dependent on language or culture, so is 3D modeling.

Q12: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? movie? comic book?

Favorite game would have to be NFS Porsche Unleashed. Basically I like racing games. Haven’t laid my hands on latest NFS releases (again since I don’t have a PC at home or a gaming console and playing games at workplace is simply out of question). Last one I played was NFS-HP2 the one which came after Porsche.

Movies… I enjoy watching good movies… picking a favorite one would be difficult… Sci-fi, action thrillers, comedy, romantic stuff, drama… haven’t been able to watch movies lately though…

When I was kid used to read Chacha Chowdhary and Champak. Comics appearing in newspapers are the staple diet now… Garfield is all-time favorite apart from Dilbert, Hagar and others.

-

With respect for the 3DVIA community, Abu has included some of the possible story-telling themes that he draws on for inspiration and that can be a guide for us as well:

- Exploring 3D…
- Shapes and Forms
- Stories, Fantasies and Dreams
- Complexities – Simplicities
- Love – War
- Elements, Monuments, History, Science and Technology
- Humor, Tears, Joy, Happiness, Sadness
- Games People Play, Games Playing People, People Playing Games
- Creators, Creations
- Immortals, Mortals
- All in all, “A Journey of A Lifetime”

Abu originally shared these themes as part of a comment on smike’s 3DVIA World Tour Bus – Halls of Fame on Wheels.

Thank you Abu for your thoughtful answers to our questions and for taking so much time to bring such excellent 3D stories to 3DVIA!

Quick links to previous Featured Artists:

14 Sizzling Snacks – Tommy Smith (tomy) – Michael White (toymaker) – Shannon Sands (sandman14) – Alfred Schallert (alfredix) – Corey Papadopoli – Mark Biasotti (mbiasotti) – Michael Petersen (smike) – Matthew Negrier (Balgin) – Benoit Caselli (Benoit-Caselli) – Matthiew Viets – Rob Rodriguez – Blake Metzler – Peter Anderson – Bryan Silva

3DVIA.com welcomes 3D modelers of all levels of experience. Some users are an inspiration to us because of their long experience and incredible models.

Others are an inspiration because they are continually working on improving their skills and welcome comments and help from other modelers while sharing their own tips and tricks.

We are also inspired by users who are just geting started. They help us to remember what it was like when each new discovery was exciting and each new technology opened whole new worlds of possibilities to us. 

Newer modelers also help bring out the best in the rest of us by asking questions that we can answer based on our own experience – questions that we wish we could have asked other 3D modelers when we needed help.

Most importantly, newer users remind us of the joy of 3D and bring a perspective to modeling that is both fresh and often amazingly different!

Tommy Smith (not his real name, by the way); or tomy as we know him here at 3DVIA, has brought those qualities to 3DVIA from the first time he joined our community. He always asks good questions, provides answers to some tough questions and makes comments that help us and remind us to enjoy ourselves! His models have been chosen for the 3DVIA Top 10 models  - 003 and – 010 and received an Honorable Mention in – 027.

If you really want to be reminded of the joy and possibilites of technology in the hands of younger users, go spend some time at tomy’s web site. Open your mind and imagine yourself having so much fun trying so many different things!

It’s all yours tomy – take it away -

Hello! I am Tommy Smith and live in Alberta in Canada. I became interested in 3DVIA because of the 3D Life Player. I’ll explain that now.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?

Well, I have a little sister who likes this little kids flash website called “Nick Jr.”. One day they posted a game called Diego Mudboarding that Hannah didn’t know how to play because I needed to install 3DVIA Player (at that time, named Virtools Player). Then they changed it to 3D Life and eventually 3DVIA Player. The ad said to go to 3DVIA.com so I did. That was I while ago. 3DVIA Shape 1.0 was still out. mvcomputers’ “Red Lobster” was the most popular model and phong was also a very popular artist. I signed up because I thought I could make a videogame with 3DVIA Shape. But, oh well, maybe someday. It’s a good program, and you are not going to get a better deal!

Q2: What types of 3D modeling do you do? 

Just like toymaker, I don’t start with a plan on paper because sometimes something happens that I didn’t expect and I have to change plans.

Q3: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?

Oh, well usually, not long. Usually a few minutes to an hour. The longest time I took was about a month to make my ferris wheel model.

Q4: What additional software do you use to create your models and images?

Usually, I either search the internet or use 3DVIA Shape’s provided textures. Or, if I really have to, I will use MS Paint to make my pictures. But those are always opaque and I can’t make it transparent. I’m hoping GIF images will be supported for 3DVIA Shape soon!

Q5: What is your work/modeling day like?

I go to school, but as soon as I get a chance, I’m on 3DVIA.com. That’s usually at about 4:00 pm.

Q6: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?

Remember that if you have to, you can save privately and continue later. I would suggest you don’t add models that are a big file size to your model. Don’t use too many models other users have made and don’t give up because there is always a smart way to do it.

Q7: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?

I use my imagination and come up with an idea. Sometimes other models on the site can give you an idea.

Q8: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?

Getting good comments on your model, replying and starting a conversation (and of course, if you do get in the Top 10, that is rewarding as well!).

Q9: Do you do 3D modeling at home on personal projects?

No, and I don’t have any private models except my tutorial model.

Q10: Do you have any thoughts on how 3D modeling can help younger people as they learn about the world?

I never thought about that. I do 3D modeling because it’s fun to do, not because you can learn facts from it.

Q11: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? Movie? Comic Book?

My favorite game? The games on my website! My favorite movie is definitely Wall•E and I was never interested in Comic Books.

Q12: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?

I like seeing new places and doing science experiments.

Thanks a lot to dswavely as he helped me a lot with setting up this Featured Artist page. This was a huge surprise that I could be in the Featured Artist blog and I am proud.

And thank you too tomy, for taking the time to answer my questions and for always being a bright and inquiring presence on 3DVIA.com. We’re all looking forward to seeing what you come up with next!

Michael White is better known to 3DVIA visitors as toymaker! Michael seems limitless in his choice of model subjects. We just never know what he’ll do next. His models have been featured in twelve 3DVIA Top 10 posts from the very beginning, including – 001, – 004, – 016, – 017, – 018, – 019, – 020, – 022, – 023, – 025, – 026 and – 027. He also added an Honorable Mention in Top 10 – 027.

Along with all of that, toymaker has been a finalist in six 3DVIA Challenges 7 - Jack-o-Lanterns, 9 – Snowman, 10 – String Instruments, 11 – Entertainment Center, 12 – Eco Crate and 13 – Helmets! Wow! 

Now, it’s time to let his models and his own words tell the rest of the story:

My name is Michael White, I am 46 years old and I come from Clemmons, North Carolina, USA, a little village just to the southwest of Winston-Salem. 

I never had a job, or any training on a computer, never touched one until 2000. So I was very surprised by this invitation to be a featured Artist. I Have always thought of myself as a tinkerer “jack of all trades, master of none” more than an artist. “But if you never try, you will never know.” So have smelling salts handy, this could get boring !  :)

Dragons and broken whiskey bottles? Doesn’t seem boring to me!

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?
In January of 2000 the first computer I ever touched arrived at my house.(Windows Me 600 MHz, 64mb ram, 28gb hard drive) About two weeks later; I went to Staples for some very important software, OK, I was looking for games! In the discount bin I found Expert Software CAD 3D for $5.00 and that is how I became interested in 3D modeling.

Q2: What types of 3D modeling do you do?
Most of the time I don’t start with a plan, just with random shapes & doodles, then think to myself that looks like “something”, delete that and really draw it. Since this is a hobby for me and not a job, I draw just whatever strikes my mind.

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?
I work at a family-owned letterpress print shop in central North Carolina, so not much. I do use it for my other hobby woodworking / toy making.

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?
I don’t know how to answer this one, Since I don’t think a model is ever finished, I have just stopped working on it. I am always thinking I should have … I can add … or that could have been done in a different way.

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your models and images?
For my hobby I go cheap. free Google SketchUp, mgi  PhotoSuite 95 (came with my first pc) paint.net (free download), Photo Impression 4 (came with a camera) and Inkscape (free download). I also search for images online for parts to clip or modify.

Q6: What is your work/modeling day like?
Very random, whenever I have a free moment  I’m working on a model.

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?
Sometimes the best way to stay focused is to do something else, for me at least, if  I try to force myself through something it just gets worse and worse! Take a break and in the back of your mind you’re still working on it and the solution will come to you when you least expect it.

Q8: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?
I often just ask people who know me and my addiction to 3D what should I draw next.

Q9: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?
Doing the drawing. When one is “finished” I lose all interest in it.

Q10: Do you do 3D modeling at home on personal projects?
Yes!

Q11: Do you have any thoughts on how 3D modeling can help children as they learn about the world?
I think it would help some children, but not all, The problem with schools is no two children are alike, but schools try to hammer them all through the same slot. In my case it would have been a bad thing, pencil & paper was bad enough. All my teachers complained that all I did was draw. If I had this, then school would work would have been a lost cause!

Q12: Just for fun, what is your favorite game?  Movie?  Comic Book?
Monopoly, 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Incredible HULK

Q13: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?
Carving  figures & bowls – woodworking

From fantasy to reality and from ghoulish to foolish, toymaker does it all! Thank you Michael for answering our questions and for all the great models that you’ve added to 3DVIA. You have a great sense of humor and we always look forward to your comments on other folks models.

Shannon Sands (sandman14) has been rocking 3DVIA’s world with his multitude of incredible guitar models. His models have been featured in Top 10 – 014, – 015 (two models), – 017, – 018, – 020, – 023, – 026, and – 028, and as Honorable Mentions in Top 10 – 022, – 023, and – 024.

It’s about time that we got the inside scoop on what drives Shannon’s guitar obsession and provide a showcase for his fantastic models! Each of Shannon’s guitars bring some history and memories with them. I’ve learned more about guitars by reading his descriptions and comments (and the responses from 3DVIA users) than I could from a book.

Shannon’s first response was short and to the point: “My name is Shannon Sands. I am 37. I do construction (roofing & siding) for a living. I live in Hatboro, Pennsylvania.”

Then, just like at a good concert, he realized his audience was with him and he opened up to tell us a lot more about himself:

I was born in Atlantic City, NJ on January 3, 1972. I lived there for ten years until I moved to Hatboro, PA in 1982. My Mother was from Atlantic City and my Father was from Hatboro. I’m the youngest of six children and though my name is Shannon I am a male (it’s just a lot of people think Shannon is a girl’s name).

I picked up the guitar at the age of nine, and I never put it back down (haha). As long as I could remember I’ve been into art. When I was younger I would draw non-stop. I loved drawing cars, plans, motorcycles etc. (didn’t really draw guitars when I was younger). I graduated from Hatboro Horsham high school in 1990.

I didn’t go to college :(. I went to work with my Father (Howard Sands) doing roofing & siding after I graduated from high school, and I worked for him until his death in 1999. Now me and my two bothers (Brian & Dwayne) run the family business.

Also, the reason why I called myself sandman14 is because I was nicknamed sandman in school (my brother Brian as well) and the 14 was Brian’s hockey jersey number when he played in an amateur hockey league on a team called the Ice Dragons. 

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?
I was an artist all my life, and I liked the idea of turning my 2D drawings into 3D models.

Q2: What types of 3D modeling do you do?
I just mainly make what I’m most interested in at the time. Most people who know who I am know what that is…Guitars!

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?

Well, I do construction for a living, so my 3D modeling doesn’t play too much of a part in my work other than kicking back and relaxing after a hard day. Making 3D models is one of my most relaxing things to do.

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?
I try not to spend too much time on any one model, but on the average I spend about 2 to 4 hours on my models. Sometimes it could be longer though.

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your models and images?
I basically just use Google SketchUp. Nothing else at this point in time.

Q6: What is your work/modeling day like?
My modeling day is my time to be creative and unwind. As I said before, it’s my time to just relax and do what I feel like doing.

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?
On a smaller project it’s kind of easy to wing it, but on a larger project I think you should have a good idea of what you’re doing before you start. Not having a good plan before you start can make you lose focus quickly.

Q8: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?
Most of the time I just think up something, picture it in my head and just go for it.

Q8: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?
I think the most rewarding part of modeling is seeing your idea take shape. It’s definitely a feeling of accomplishment.

Q9: Do you do 3D modeling at home on personal projects?
Basically all my 3D models are personal projects, and they are all done at home.

Q10: Do you have any thoughts on how 3D modeling can help children as they learn about the world?
I think the most important thing to have is a good imagination, and I think 3D modeling can really help a child out in that area.

Q11: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? Movie? Comic Book?
My favorite game is Civilization II, my favorite movie is Jekyll & Hyde…Together Again, and I don’t read comic books, but if I did it would probably be something like Spawn or Hellboy.

Q12: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?
Music and Art.

Oh, did I mention that Shannon also has a thing about skateboards?

But that’s story for another day. Make sure you click on and visit the guitar models that scream out to you. And check out Shannon’s comments and follow his links.

In particular, check out the video link for the Michael Angelo Batio 29 fret guitar. If you have any unscrambled brains in your head after that – you’re way younger than I am.

Thank you Shannon for your incredible models, great comments and helping us all rock on, roll on or whatever your particular favorite music moves you to do!

With 218 models (at last count) here on 3DVIA.com, alfredix has become a valued part of our modeling community! His models are always impeccably detailed and usually just the right size to use in 3DVIA Shape, so we can all make our own scenes too. He is always ready with a compliment or a good question about other people’s models and is fantastic about sharing his creative process – as you shall see.

Alfred has been featured in 3DVIA Top 10 posts – 014, – 015, – 017, – 019,  – 020, – 023 and – 026 and as an Honorable Mention in posts – 018 and – 021.

PLEASE NOTE: All model images are linked to Alfred’s models and the web album images are also linked to the appropriate url, so click and enjoy!

Now it’s his turn to tell us about himself:

My name is Alfred Schallert, I am 40 years old and I come from Amberg, a little city in Germany, about 200km north of Munich (which is most probably much better known).

I first came in contact with computers in 1988 with a Commodore C64. Despite the wide range of games for that machine, I did not have one single game for it. I started programming in BASIC and made a bearing calculation software, which was useful for my engineering schooling.

After finishing college for Mechanical Engineering I started to work for SIEMENS and bought my first PC (286 processor, 1MB RAM and 40MB hard disk). Quite funny, my mobile phone today has better performance specifications. Since then I worked for several companies, mainly in the CAD environment.

Since 2005 I have worked for TraceParts GmbH, which is the German subsidiary of TraceParts S.A. in France. We have one of the biggest CAD libraries on the Internet, with more than 750.000 registered users and over 150 international companies publishing their products as CAD data on our website. If you would like to learn more about TraceParts see us on www.traceparts.com or www.tracepartsonline.net.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?
My first contact with 3D modeling was during my time at SIEMENS, where I was responsible for the selection and setup of a new CAD system. In 1996 I bought a 1:35 scale model of a US Army HMMWV and started to remodel this plastic kit in AutoCAD 13, using the basic 3D commands at that time.

This is a more recent Hummer modeled using Pro/E. Check out the incredible drive line detail!

This was when the whole modeling hobby hit me. I bought more and more plastic kits and remodeled them in AutoCAD. In 1999 I switched to Inventor. Inventor was brand new at that time and it was fun to model now in completely shaded environment. (In AutoCAD, I was able to do shading, but it took a lot of resources, so the pure modeling was done in wire frame mode.)

A few years later I started with SolidWorks, which, at that time, was a lot more advanced than Inventor. Since 2006 my main CAD system is Pro/ENGINEER.

Q2: What types of 3D modeling do you do?
I do mainly 1:35 military models, which I buy as plastic kits. Up to now I have done tanks, helicopters, airplanes and most of all trucks and jeeps. At the moment I am adding a lot of accessories to my models, to build scenes that can tell a little story.

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?
Even though there is no relationship to my work, my private modeling helps me a lot in my profession, because I learn a lot about the use and the functions of many different CAD systems.

TraceParts is a CAD library that provides the users (designers) with ready to use CAD models of supplier parts from many different companies. As part of my work I have a lot to do with CAD data coming from our customers. Those data are published on our web site so that a wide range of users can benefit from.

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?
The time needed for one model, heavily depends on model itself. In general it goes from 1 week (like for the A-10 ) to several months.

The B-1 Bomber, for example, kept me busy for 2 months. I must admit that I started to learn surface modeling on that one :).

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your models and images?
The main software I use is Pro/E. In general, I use all CAD systems that are available. Inventor and Solidworks play a big role, of course, since there is a lot of legacy data available from my earlier years.

Recently I bought PaintShop Pro from Corel to start working on textures and decals. For publishing my pictures I use Picasa, which is a free tool from Google. There you can also upload your albums to make pictures available to everybody. You can see all of my albums here: http://picasaweb.google.com/alfredeix.

Q6: What is your work/modeling day like?
My usual day starts with going to the office (well who doesn’t…). Because I am traveling a lot; mostly by car inside Germany, it is quite often the case that modeling has to be postponed to the weekends. But at least I check everyday on the web to see what is new on 3DVIA. When I do not travel, I try to work a bit every day on my current project.

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?
I think the first thing you need is a good plan for what to do. Earlier, I just started with something and then I got lost in details and finally was overwhelmed by the whole thing. I try to work on my current project every day a little bit.

Usually I do only one big project at the time. Smaller things will be squeezed in at any time, like accessories etc., but there is only one main project (like a plane or helicopter) at the same time. Those big projects are split into smaller groups (like the main body, the landing gear etc).

Q8: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?
My main source for modeling is the plastic kit. In 1:35 scale there is enough accuracy to recognize not only visual details, but also to figure out how a specific mechanism works in reality (like for the landing gears of an airplane). My first models were “only” a copy of the plastic parts. The parts were measured with calipers and then modeled.

After gaining more experience, I started to “modify” the model parts, so that mechanical functions could be included. If there is information missing in the plastic kit, I search the web or I buy books that describe this particular mode in real.

Q9: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?
There are several rewards for me. The first is for myself, when I can say “I did this”. For me it is a great satisfaction to see my model and it really looks like the real one. Especially my first helicopters and airplanes were a great reward for myself, because I learned to do surface modeling by myself.

Since I started to publish my models on 3DVIA, an even bigger reward is positive feedback on a model from anybody on 3DVIA. Of course, when people like Smike, who is in my eyes, one of the greatest artists on 3DVIA, makes a positive comment or gives me 5 star rating, this is just great!

Q10: Do you have any thoughts on how 3D modeling can help children as they learn about the world?
Actually I did not think about that a lot up to now. But I think the kids of today grow up with 3D animations like you can see in movies, on TV, in advertising etc. What makes my jaw simply drop to the floor, is normal for them. From that point of view, 3D modeling is THE way of the 21st century to support any learning process, especially for kids, because they have the best feeling for that.

Q11: Just for fun, what is your favorite game?  Movie?  Comic Book?
My favorite game(s) are the LEGO games that you can buy for some consoles like X-Box etc. I have an X-Box360 and I enjoy LEGO StarWars and LEGO Indiana Jones a lot. Most of all,  I enjoy those games because you need to play with a partner, which makes a nice “Game evening” with friends (even at my age [:)]).

I must say I am a huge movie fan. And if I could tell which one is my favorite, there is a long list crossing lots of genres. But there is one that really hit me: The Lord of the Rings (all 3 parts). There are many reasons for that. One is definitely the computer animations in the movie. I think I saw the “making of” on the DVDs as often as the movie itself.

In terms of comics, I was a big fan of Asterix, when I was a child. At least the Europeans among you should know him and his friend Obelix very well. For all the rest, check here: http://www.asterix.com/.

BTW: Asterix was the inspiration for my username (alfredix). I was sick of being Alfred0815 or something like that. Then I tried to add the Asterix specific “ix” and became Alfredix. I was surprised that not a lot of alfreds in this world had the same idea. Since then alfredix is used for any private login, and it works fine!

Q12: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?
When there is time after work and modeling (I must admit, those two occupations really dominate my life) I like to ride my motorcycle and enjoy Formula 1 racing. Both start in Spring and end in Fall. So the whole winter is “free” for modeling, well and a bit of work :).

Thank you Alfred for your thoughts, methods and for being an inspiration for the rest of us!

Alfred also has a good sense of humor, as the model called “Wild Horses” below illustrates.

Corey Papadopoli provides us with some great images, project descriptions and comments that all add up to a clear window into how 3D computer modeling is now an integral part of architecture. 

Corey has worked in Boston, New York City, Puerto Rico, Seal Harbor, Maine, and Florence, Italy prior to joining Elliott Elliott Norelius in Blue Hill, ME.  His design experience ranges from single-family residential to office buildings and religious structures.

Corey received his Bachelor of Architecture degree magna cum laude from Wentworth Institute of Technologyand holds an Associates Degree in Architectural Engineering Technology summa cum laude from the same institution.  While at Wentworth he received the Henry Adams Medal and the President’s Award for Academic Excellence and Co-Curricular Involvement. 

He has entered several competitions, winning the ASHRAE Architectural Systems Design Competition in 1998.  He is currently licensed in Maine and Massachusetts and is NCARB certified. 

When not drawing or modeling he can usually be found atop a mountain or hitting a volleyball.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?
When I was in architecture school I actually stayed away from 3D modeling as long as possible, choosing to work by hand.  Most 3D programs available to me at the time felt clumsy and were not good design tools.  Handwork was quicker, more expressive, and easily manipulated to achieve the effect I was after.  I still work in large part by hand.  My 5th year of school I was working for a firm in Boston.  The project I was working on was a residence in Maine and the clients were having a difficult time comprehending the design.

I was simultaneously taking a class using 3D Studio Viz and began creating a model of the house.  From this model I was able to generate rendered perspectives and animations but also cut-aways and exploded views that the clients could understand better than the 2D drawings and sketches we had been showing them to date.  It was then that I began to realize the potential the computer model had as a design and presentation tool.

Port Clyde Residence
Peter Forbes, FAIA, Architects
This was the first project I modeled.  It was for the firm I was working for, Peter Forbes & Associates in Boston.  Its initial purpose was as a design tool and learning model.  It became useful when we were able to show the client the 3D cutaways of the interior.  These initial models were just hidden line renderings but the model became more refined as time went on.

Q2: What type of 3D models do you do?
I essentially model buildings and furniture.  Models are used early in the process to help establish spatial relationships and site connections.  They allow us to look at, through, around, and under the building in a way that can quickly shape design decisions.  Light is the lens through which architecture is seen.  Modeling the play of light and shadow on a model is extremely informative in the design process.

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?
Models are essential to the design process, not only as a visualization tool but also as a design tool.  Models allow us to present ideas to clients from a number of viewpoints.  As design tools they provide a way to check the vision in our minds against the “reality” of three dimensional space.  Is what we conceived plausible?  How do structure and systems integrate into the architectural concept?  How does light affect the space at different times of the day and year?  What is the site relationship?

97 Sylvan Way
ARCHITECTURE RobertCollins
This was a house that I helped design with Robert Collins.  The model initially served as a design tool for us to study the exterior envelope, interior spaces, and structural components.  It became very involved.  We later refined it with the help of Paul Kempton for lighting studies and marketing purposes.

Lights off

Lights on

Outside stairs and the studio

Different plan views cut through the building at different levels.

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?
It varies depending on the use of the model.  Some models are done quickly to look at a design decision three-dimensionally.  These might take minutes and are mostly about space and light.  Clients generally never see these.  Presentation models are at the opposite end of the spectrum and can take days or longer depending on the level of detail required or if animation is necessary.  Usually what we do falls somewhere in between: not quite presentation quality but more than schematic.

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your images?
Photoshop is used to touch up almost any image.

Studio

ARCHITECTURE RobertCollins

This was a separate structure for the clients to utilize as both a studio and an observatory.  They had a great interest in the stars and the model was used to demonstrate the structure’s relationship to the sky.

Q6: What is your work day like?
It can be all over the place.  Some days I may be out at a site observing the state of a project under construction.  Others I am behind the computer working back and forth between drawings and models.  Sometimes specifications and schedules can absorb an entire day of my life which I will never, ever get back.

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a big project?
For me a large project translates into a complex building (typically).  I find it is good to move back and forth between a small detail and the entire exterior of the building.  Work inductively.  Move from the bottom up.  There should be a concept that drives every project.  This concept should not only describe (in my case) the way the exterior is designed but also what derives the smallest detail.  Knowing that concept is there to help resolve any issue that comes up is the biggest key for me.  In a successful and solid project that concept is traceable down to every decision made. 

Freeport Residence
Elliott Elliott Norelius Architecture
This project was fairly complex and one of the first I worked on for my current firm.  We had a compressed period of time to work on this: design began in July with construction starting in November.  We were still working on construction drawings while they were pouring concrete.  We needed to convey to the clients the relationship of the modern glass elements to the traditional wood boxes, the underlying concept of the project.  This model was fairly schematic and served its function well. 

As modeled

As built

Q8: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?
Museums are great places to go but I am unfortunately no longer surrounded by many of them.  I do try and go when I can.  I find a lot of inspiration in books.  The connection between literature and architecture is more relevant than it seems.  As architects we are generally trying to tell a story; how well the story is told is a direct relationship to the success of the project.

Q9: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?
When a 3D model can be used to inform a design decision or help me see something I had not previously thought of or considered, it definitely becomes worth it. 

Q10: Do you do 3D modeling at home on personal projects?
I created a model of our house which I used as a design tool.  It is now under construction.

Sylvan Way
This is a model of my house, currently under construction which can be seen here: http://sylvanway.blogspot.com .   The model was used as a design tool quite heavily as I would constantly make changes in it while evaluating it from different angles.

As modeled

During construction

Q11: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? movie? comic book?
I am definitely a Trivial Pursuit kind-of-person.  Movie is a lot tougher.  I guess I would have to say The Godfather.  Never got into comic books; prefer to read literature or poetry. 

Q12: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?
Architecture, of course.

Thank you Corey for your great project descriptions, process insights and comments about the value that you find using 3D modeling in your chosen profession.  And good luck and good weather as you finish the house!

Mark Biasotti is quite well known within the SolidWorks community for his mastery of the complex surfaces often needed to design and manufacture many consumer items. As an Industrial Designer, he was always working to make the products fit our needs and our physical capabilities. When we pick up a product and it just feels right when we use it, we can thank folks like Mark. Now he works directly at SolidWorks to help make their products even better at helping designers help us.

Mark’s wide background and long experience add valuable perspective to his comments. We appreciate that he was able to make the time to share his images, videos and thoughts with us.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?

This is going to date me, but it was back in 1985 when I was an Industrial Designer for Hewlett Packard. I got involved with, HP’s product , ME30 and then later Solid Designer (code named Quintus) and today known as PTC’s One Space Designer. 

This is a mock movie poster for an incredible video that Mark created using SolidWorks and additional production tools. Go here to watch it – it is definitely worth it. Then go here to read a complete explanation from Mark about how it came to be.

Q2: What type of 3D models do you do?

All types, but the most enjoyable types of modeling for me are ones that are geometrically challenging – they involve an intense amount of problem solving and design.  Often times, they fall into the category of Consumer Product Design type shapes.

Blender model courtesy of Mike Garman – rendered by Mark Biasotti

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?

Currently I’m a Product Manager for the advanced concepts group at SolidWorks. I’m involved with direction and strategy for future SolidWorks products which involves a great deal of customer observation, storyboarding and working with the development team.

The next “production” that Mark did was for SolidWorks World 2007 in New Orleans called “Better Products for the Future”in which, again, he used the combination of SolidWorks, NewTek’s Lightwave3D and Adobe’s After Effects to create. You can download it here

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?
Hum… that really depends on the complexity of course. I would say on an average two to five days from initial shape creation to parting it out and rendering.

Camera courtesy of WaterShot Inc. – rendered by Mark Biasotti

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your images?
If I’m creating still images from SolidWorks, I use PhotoWorks and PhotoView 360 and ALWAYS post-process it in Adobe Photoshop. If I’m creating animations, I love to use Lightwave3D and Adobe After Effects for the post-processing, additional effects and final composite.

Guitar model courtesy of Paul Reed Smith Guitars – rendered by Mark Biasotti

Q6: What is your work day like?
What I get involved with in a typical day and week varies greatly and that is, perhaps, what makes this job interesting. Stepping away from a formal Industrial Design role four years ago and into a product management role has not stopped me for being able to contribute creatively.  As you can imagine, The Product Management role does not afford me to be an isolationist (although there are days…) and I’m constantly in meetings and brainstorming sessions with developers and Product Marketing. One thing that is constant in my day is monitoring and contributing to the SolidWorks Forums and blogs. I  love to stay in touch with our customer. I also try to visit user groups around the country as well as many customer visits and customer observations.

racecar model courtesy of the University of British Columbia – rendered by Mark Biasotti

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a big project?
Start with the difficult tasks up-front instead of putting them off to the end. Don’t be afraid to solicit feedback early and be aware that human nature leans toward avoiding conflicts so be proactive.

Q8: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?
I’m a big fan of science museums – we have a particularly good one here in Boston, but I’m also a big fan of science fiction. I subscribe to some ID and 3D CGI magazines and hanging out at forums like Product Design Forums which are good for staying current and observing current trends.

Q9: Do you do 3D modeling at home on personal projects?
Yes, but for things that are not so challenging geometrically. Years ago, when I was in California and my children were young, I built a Hexagonal 2 story tree house for them – entirely built in SW and design so it could be disassembled.

Q10: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? movie? comic book?
I love team games like Scattergories and Balderdash. Favorite movie: Gladiator. I never really got into comics.

Q11: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?
My faith in Jesus Christ and my pursuit of knowing Him better.

Thank you again, Mark, for adding your perspective about 3D modeling and for sharing your images, videos and comments.

Michael Petersen is better known to 3DVIA visitors as smike. He is a regular in the weekly 3DVIA Top 10 list and tops the list of users with 234 models in his 3DVIA collection. Smike started both the 3D People Character Figures and Ships – Boats – Vessels groups and, just recently, also started the Squirrels group to add another gathering spot for 3DVIA humor. He is always quick to compliment and make helpful comments on other users’ models.

When the “Squirrel Wars” became a bit fierce (as in his own model of “Squirrels Attack Squadron 21″), smike reminded us not to take the whole thing too seriously with “Squirrels Enjoying Watersports”.

Smike’s fertile imagination keeps him busy and his model subjects range widely; from Babylon 5 spaceships to aircraft carriers, bicycles and Batman! His attention to detail is amazing.

Here’s what Michael/smike has to say about himself and his development into an accomplished 3D artist:

I live in Copenhagen, Denmark, in a troubled neighborhood called Nørrebro. Right now we have a gang war going on with the Hells Angels against gangs of kids formed by immigrants to Denmark. I live alone with my dog and my son when he visits for a weekend every two weeks. I grew up as the black sheep of the family, but in 1979 I bought a Commodore 64 computer and got interested in programming.

OK, in the beginning I was hooked on cracking games, since it was fun. Then I started making my own games, databases and small utilities and became totally interested in the world of computers.

In 1980 I got a job at a computer firm building computers out of imported parts from Taiwan. This changed my life totally and I loved working with computers. I was self-taught and the only one in the workshop without a computer technology education. I was surprised to learn that I knew more about computers than the others. A year and a half later I was the leader of the workshop with 10 technicians under me.

My main task became computer repairs and setting up computer networks at schools, universities and private companies. I worked there for 10 years until the firm broke up and I changed to a new company that specialized in computer repairs and error finding.

Three years ago I became sick with blood flow problems in my legs and have been on sick leave since then. I am still called out on jobs to solve problems in network systems and install new ones. I also do a lot of computer repairs from my home for people I have worked with in the past.

Because of the problems with my legs, I suddenly had a lot of spare time at home and started learning to program in html, Java and JavaScript to make my own web site. Now I also make web sites for small firms and private individuals.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?

I first learned about 3D models while making the home page for my web site B5-Complitia – Babylon 5 Universe Guide and working on the spaceship/vehicle section. I searched the internet for info and pictures about Babylon 5 and found a web site called Celestia, a great site with free 3D models. There I found a lot of 3D models of Babylon 5 items/vehicles and that made me interested in learning more about 3D models.

My first 3D models were used to make pictures and gif animations for my site, which helped me learn about converting files into formats that I could use. (I also made sure to contact the 3D artist who made the models to get permission to use them.) Only 25 out of about 140 spaceships seen in Babylon 5 were available as 3D models, so I began thinking of making them myself.

I tried several 3D programs like Lightwave 3D and Blender; but must admit that they were confusing, difficult to use and it took forever to make a model. In June of 2008, I downloaded the free version of Google’s SketchUp and tried some of the available tutorials. I was hooked – mostly because it was so easy to learn and has a lot of great help/information materials. I later bought the SketchUp Pro version and use it to make all of my 3D models.

Q2: What type of 3D models do you do?

I am interested in all types of 3D modeling, which can be seen in my models. I started out making models of Babylon 5 spaceships for my site and have made around 60-65 vehicles.

I then got interested in making character/people models and other things like my bicycle, cranes, aircraft carriers and other vessels.

I want to note that even though other 3D artists say it is important to have 2D  drawing skills to make good 3D models; I believe this is not true, since I have to admit that I have no 2D drawing skills at all. Somehow, it is different drawing in 3D where the objects have a natural depth, unlike 2D drawings where you have to create the illusion of depth. For me, it is like working with blocks of clay that I shape into the object I want. Many times I have to delete it all and make a new one until I am satisfied.

I also want to mention a few valuable things about SketchUp. It has a great option called Components. Once you define an object/item as a Component you can save in a Component Library. So every time I make an item like a wheel; I can reuse it easily in a new model and, if needed, change it to fit the new model, which saves a lot of time.

Components have two other great features. First is that when you make a copy of a Component then make changes to that Component, all the copies are changed too. The second feature is unique to SketchUp and only works with the skp format. Copies of the first Component don’t add to the file size, since SketchUp only saves the data for the first Component, which is then used for all the copies.

This can make a SketchUp model file size incredibly small, which can be seen in my model of the U.S.S. Langley CV-1 aircraft carrier [shown below]. The entire model is only 2MB as a skp file. When I convert the same file into the 3ds format, all of the Components must be converted and the model size goes up to 9MB.

Q3: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?

That is hard to say, since I usually work on 3-5 different models at a time and change between them depending on what I feel like doing at the time. It also depends on the complexity of the model and the amount of detail I want to add – plus how interesting the model is to me.

Q4: What additional software do you use to create your images?

I use PaintShop Pro in all my work with 2D images. I use 3D Photo Browser to view and organize all my images and 3D models, except for skp files, which it cannot show.

My main and most important tool is the file manager program Total Commander, which I use for everything having to do with my computer files and disk drives.

Q5: What are your tips for staying focused on a big project?

I love making large complex models and have no trouble staying focused while working on them, but I must admit that I have many models that which have been started, but not yet finished.

Q6: What is your work day like?

It depends on my legs; but one thing that is the same every day, no matter what, is to go out with my dog. Mostly I work on making web pages for other people.

Q7: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?

This is my biggest problem with making 3D models…what to make a model of. Since Denmark is a small country we don’t have so many interesting subjects to see. I use the internet as my main source of material.

I prefer making models of subjects that have not been made before and avoid items like furniture, since they are made in the thousands by other artists. I love great new designs and concepts plus strange machines or vessels not familiar to or seen by most people. Even more exciting is when I get an idea of my own and can design something using my imagination.

Future Ocean House Concept is a good example of smike putting his imagination to work!

Q8: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?

That is difficult to say, since many times I feel sad when I have finished a model and realize that there is nothing more to add. But there is a feeling of satisfaction from looking at the model and knowing that I made it. And it does feel great when a model gets a variety of responses and becomes the subject for discussion.

Q9: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? movie? comic book?

I am not a big gamer, but for me, good old DOOM was a great game. My favorite movie is hard, I am totally a Sci-Fi and Fantasy fan and devoted to series like Star Trek and Babylon 5, which can be seen on my site where I have made the biggest and most detailed guide/dictionary on the internet about Babylon 5.

I also love to read books like Rendezvous with Rama written by Arthur C. Clarke. The Dune trilogy written by Frank Herbert has meant a lot to me.

I love comics and have collected them since I was little and have a nice collection now. I am a devoted fan of Spiderman, the X-Men, Spawn and many more.

smike has compiled the most complete lineup of Batmobiles that I’ve ever seen!

Q10: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?

For me, computer programming has always been my favorite since I first learned the language BASIC in 1979. I mostly use BASIC for private projects, since it has turned out that I have a special talent for computer repairs and error finding, which has been my main work since 1980.

For 3-4 years I got interested in html, Java and JavaScript and used my Babylon 5 site as a work project to try it out. I then starting making home pages for other people which I still do with most of my time.

Thanks smike! Now we all know a little more about you, and how and why you make your great 3D models. I hope visitors to 3DVIA will take some time to explore more of your models on their own, because there is no way that I can do justice to the amazing wealth of subjects that you cover. I’m looking forward to your next 200 models!

Matthieu Negrier is quite a well-rounded 24 year old 2D/3D artist living near Paris in France. For work, he is part of the 3DVIA Web Application Team and in charge of developing Virtools applications. He also works on reconstructing 3D models from photography. For himself; he keeps busy doing 3D modeling, game creation, writing plays and novels, developing web sites, keeping up on most scientific subjects, playing video games, going out and even finding some time for sports like running and tennis.

We’re happy that Matthieu has been taken time to be our Featured Artist and to give his thoghts on a wide range of topics to help us all get to know him better and to put our own modeling experiences into a broader perspective. 

Matthieu (3DVIA username Balgin) is also our current 3DVIA Challenge Champion! His model of “Jack” made me glad that my kids are older and won’t be scared! He used 3ds Max to create his ghoulish goblin.

Now, on to Matthieu’s answers…

  Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?

I remember my first contact with 3D; like everybody, it was using the the first PC games and spending hundreds of hours alone (and with friends) to my parent’s despair. The current debate about children spending too much time in front of their computers is not new. Ten years ago I was impressed by the power of 3D as a medium. I have to admit that my fascination with the medium has only increased over time.

“Giving life to 3D” is fantastic stuff. Being able to visualize and share what you have inside your head brings a great sense of satisfaction, like a writer who can put his story on paper to bring it to life. Today we have very powerful tools which dramatically increase the possibilities. Yesterday, 3D was like a “virtual Lego game” with limited pieces to use. Today we can invent whatever pieces we need.

When I was only 15, I began creating images and 3D animations using PowerPoint (yes, it is possible). It was very hard, but it allowed me to create things in 3D and that made me very happy. Later I began use other tools like 3ds Max, which allows both simple and complex 3D modeling through a powerful range of parameters that I could learn to manage. I spent many hours reading the tutorials just to create a small animation, but even though it was a lot of work it was also very interesting and gave me great satisfaction when I watched the results. I think the most important thing is the pleasure you can get from your results, no matter what software you use.

Whether your model has four polygons or four million, the only really important thing is the creative passion you bring to your work. Sometimes you may hesitate to show your results, but usually the reactions and feelings of other people are very positive. In fact, you cannot always create Square Enix’s state-of-the-art animations, but even with today’s free modeling software you can easily create a lot of things. The challenge of creating something fabulous is even more exciting. With a triangle, everything is possible, isn’t it?

Q2: What types of 3D models do you do?

Until now, I have rarely made independent models; that is to say objects or characters without a precise goal. In general, I have the idea for a more global project like an animation or an illustration for a story or a game. My modeling really depends on the project. Because of this I use a little bit of many 3D tools with more or less success. Usually, my models are more oriented towards fantasy and entertainment and don’t tend to be photorealistic.

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?

I do not need to use or import 3D models in my day-to-day work, at least for the moment. I actually work on 3D object reconstruction from images.

This is one of Matthieu’s models created using 3DVIA Shape. It’s called Magic Castle and has amazing details when you zoom in, including a topiary animal!

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average on one particular model?

I prefer not to count the time spent on projects in order not to know all the things I could have done instead. Anyway, I need a lot of time to build a model, especially when I want a more precise result than usual. I often need to dig deep inside the documentation to understand how to create a particular effect or how to use a new tool. I think a lot of casual users are like me.

I would say that it also depends on the software and the complexity of the model. In general, I’m working in my free time and I would really like the days to be longer. I often work on a model in the evening, look out the window and am surprised – “Wow, is it that late already?”

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your images?

When I had to create animations or needed to add effects, I usually used Photoshop or After Effects. I speak of the past because as a student I had free access to the software and today I can’t afford to own them. Now I’m using free tools to save money and it is sufficient for what I want to do. I don’t need to use complex products.

Q6: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?

Talking about 3D modeling, my large projects are all personal projects. Therefore, I don’t have deadlines. What motivates me is the will and impatience to see my ideas turned into 3D. Sometimes I may be discouraged about the viability of my project, especially at the beginning, but usually the feeling doesn’t last for long. The hardest thing is to stay on course and focus on the long term; that is knowing my priorities and putting the whole thing together.

Q7: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks, anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?

It is great these days that 3D has been democratized and spread to so many users. Information and help is available from so many web sites with really useful tips, tutorials and very active communities. Being part of those communities opens many possibilities for sharing your projects with interesting people and discovering new ideas in return. Search engines make it easy to find what you’re looking for and the variety of 3D models available for downloading allow you to study and analyze many different ways of modeling.

I regularly visit these types of web sites to see and be “Wowed” by other people’s projects. I also like to go to Dailymotion or YouTube to watch short video clips from professionals and students. As far as inspiration, she usually arrives when you least expect her!

Matthieu also used 3DVIA Shape to create these two models: Airship and Zeppelin.

Q8: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?

What I find the most rewarding is the joy of seeing my idea in 3D after a lot of hard work. I like the excitement of making breakthroughs and realizing that I’m progressing through the steps of a project and nearing the end. It is a feeling that is quite euphoric and yet misleading too. I often look at my creations afterward and find the feeling is so different and strange.

I also love to show my work to different people to see their reactions. In fact, I don’t think 3D makes sense without the “sharing”.

Q9: Do you do 3D modeling on personal projects?

I only do 3D modeling for my personal projects and I have a lot of those, and not enough time to do everything. Currently I am creating games using Virtools and XNA. They provide me with well made engines and easy to use interfaces and features. I work on small games now and will move on to larger projects later. In small games there isn’t a lot of modeling, but I will do more on the larger ones.

Personal challenges like entering the Imagine Cup are important because they are interesting and motivating. When I was a student, some friends and I started creating a short movie clip for it, but we haven’t been able to finish it. There should be more challenges like the Imagine Cup.

Q10: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? Movie? Comic Book?

My taste in movies is wide-ranging, which makes it hard to pick just one. I like authors’ movies (they can sometimes be very strange) as well as classical Hollywood productions (even if I think that too much of the budget goes to special effects and not enough to the plot). I think that we are now so used to massive amounts of special effects that we are more demanding on the story and characters, hoping that they will move beyond “cliches”.

I don’t really like the mass-audience comedies except for chilling out with friends. On the other hand, I love old black & white movies from the 50’s and 60’s (especially American ones). I also like animated movies, especially the ones from Pixar and Tim Burton (I like his movies too).

In video games, my taste is more classical, like Final Fantasy and other games from Square Enix. I moved from the Nintendo NES to Sony PS2 playing Final Fantasy X and this game has definitely marked me! I love role playing games because of the long stories and immersive aspects of a complete universe. MMPORG [Massively-Multiplayer Online Roleplaying Game] doesn’t really attract me, maybe because I’m afraid of becoming addicted.

I like Tolkien books and Robert Jordan. I also enjoy books that fully present a historical period, like those by French author Emile Zola. 

Q11: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?

I’m very attracted to all aspects of science: physics, chemistry, biology, astonomy, mathematics and archeology. I follow scientific news and keep up with articles and files from a variety of scientific sites. Another scientific interest is the environment, which I’m a bit pessimistic about right now. I’m working on a web site project in this area. I miss science and experimentation in my daily job and balance that by following all of these subjects.

Wow, thank you Matthieu for providing so much background and insight into what helps make you an excellent artist! We do appreciate the time and thought that went into your answers and look forward to seeing your new models here on 3DVIA – when you have time.

Fasten your seat belts! Benoit Caselli is one incredible modeler!

I’ll let him introduce himself:   I live in Gentilly, in the southern Paris suburbs. I have been in an apprenticeship contract for 3 years at Dassault Systemes (DS), where I had the pleasure to work on the CATIA industrialization team and in pre-sales design. I am now working for Dassault Data Services (DDS) as a PLM Automotive Consultant. The major part of my work is therefore done for customers in the automotive market. What I like most in my job is the diversity of missions. I like challenge and to discover new things in my everyday life.

My other passion is music and sound. I am a big fan of electronic music and I have been mixing that kind of sound at student parties and Parisian night clubs for more than 5 years. I am also composing my own electronic music and will try to release my own titles.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling?

When I was at University, I attended special courses to work in the research and studies departments. I became really interested in 3D modeling during these courses.

Q2: What types of 3D modeling do you do?

I work exclusively on CATIA and I prefer surface modeling because in allows creating shapes that are much more beautiful and harmonious than classical volume design. I love 3D challenges and the more complex the shape is, the more it interests me. Another aspect that I really love in 3D is “knowledge-ware”, which deals with setups and templates for 3D models.

Q3: What role do your models play in the work you do?

The majority of my models have been created to help train users of different CATIA V5 modules. Those same models are used to test CATIA products for both 3D creation and rendering functions. Other models have also been used for customer presentations.

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?

That totally depends on my objectives and the complexity of the model. Actually, I am able to design and shape a complete car (interior and exterior) in 10 days. I do not, of course, design the motor parts.

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your images?

I am usually trying to show the capabilities of CATIA V5 compared to other 3D and 2D programs, so I try not to rework my images. All the images here I have created using CATIA V5 modules exclusively.

Q6: What is your work day like?

I do not have a typical work day.

Q7: What are your tips for staying focused on a large project?

During a large project, I am generally under pressure so I cannot really become unfocused.

Q8: Where do you go (web sites, museums, race tracks , anywhere) for help, tips and inspiration?

My favorite websites are www.clubic.com and www.emob.fr.

Q9: What part of 3D modeling do you find most rewarding?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of 3D modeling is the creation of really innovative designs. I know I have achieved this when somebody tells me “I would really like to have this in my kitchen” or “I would really like to drive this car”.

Q10: Do you do 3D modeling at home on personal projects?

I have needed to model several 3D objects and buildings for personal projects. For example, I have created furniture and then put them in my model of a friend’s apartment so he could optimize his design.

Q11: Just for fun, what is your favorite game? Movie? Comic Book?

My favorite movie is American History X and my favorite book is The Secret of Ji.

Q12: What is your favorite subject other than 3D modeling?

I am also passionate about electronic music and I have been mixing it for five years now and composing it for one year. I also really like to create 2D images with Photoshop for my CD packages. I often insert 3D models made with CATIA as part of my designs.

Thank you, Benoit, for helping us understand you and your 3D modeling world a little bit better. It is really a pleasure to have a modeler of your caliber uploading models and sharing your thoughts with 3DVIA’s visitors.

Rob Rodriguez has earned a place for himself as an expert in photo-realistic rendering in fields quite different from the gaming and entertainment worlds. Rob’s expertise is used to help people visualize and make decisions before they make real products. From the architecture we live with to the products that we hold in our hands, Rob’s skills make the things we use better from the beginning. Rob’s business, Axis CAD Solutions, delivers the value and power of rendered images primarily using PhotoWorks from SolidWorks. He also shares his knowledge with others through presentations at annual events like SolidWorks World and at numerous user group meetings throughout the US.

Q1: How did you first become interested in 3D modeling, animation and rendering?

Like everyone else I suppose I started designing in 2D with CAD tools like AutoCAD.  I can remember my professors from architectural school saying you have to learn how to visualize your design in 3D as you’re putting it on paper or the screen.  Sometimes this can be difficult when working on a complex design.  I can remember thinking if I can’t “see” the design in 3D then how is the customer going to see it?  2D CAD  was a step up from board drafting but it didn’t solve the problem of visualization for me.  I had worked in the architecture field for a while when I took a position designing decorative cast iron and sheet metal parts for a company that manufactures wood and gas heating appliances.  The decorative cast parts were very free form shapes with a more artistic feel and again I found it very difficult to communicate and visualize this type of design with 2D CAD.  This was the point I jumped into the 3D CAD world using SolidWorks.   I was amazed how much easier it was to “see” my design in 3D since I was working that way on screen.  There was no turning back at that point.  I was in the 3D CAD world to stay and 10 years later I’m still here.  Rendering and animation  just seemed to be a natural progression from modeling.  I used to see very life-like computer generated images while thumbing through trade magazines and they really caught my interest.  I wanted to learn how to create images like this and I’ve been learning ever since.

Q2: What types of 3D modeling, animation and rendering do you do?

Having been in a number of different industries, I’ve modeled a variety of things.  Residential homes, cabinetry, furniture, sheet metal parts, castings, monuments, mausoleums, etc, etc, etc.  It’s an odd combination really, especially when  people find out I use SolidWorks as my primary design, modeling, and rendering package.  SolidWorks is primarily an MCAD design tool and I’ll be the first to admit some of the things I use SolidWorks to design and render don’t fit with its normal usage.

Q3: What role do your models, animations and renderings play in the product development process?

That really depends on the context of the work.  If I’m working on consumer type products my renderings and animations typically come at the end of the design process and are used for more of a marketing or sales tool.  Most of my images and animations are used for print brochures, magazines and the web.  If I’m working on an architectural project renderings and animations are used to allow the clients to easily see the design and decide on revisions.

Q4: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular rendering?

Typically the modeling is already finished when I need to create a rendering.  I could have created the model at an earlier time myself or my client may have sent me their model to use for rendering purposes.  Since the work of modeling is already completed, the rendering process progresses rather quickly.  I’d say a typical consumer product rendering takes about a ½ day to a day depending on the complexity of the design and what exactly the client wants to show.  Architectural type renderings usually take longer just because the nature of them requires more work.

Q5: What additional software do you use to create your images?

I like to do as much work as possible in the modeling / rendering package but there is always a bit of post processing required.  For this I use a photo editing program, Corel Draw / PhotoPaint.

Q6: What is your day like?

I’ll let you know when this one is over J.  It varies greatly but there are some constants.  Having a full time job and operating my own business makes for some long hours.  During the day I would typically be working on design projects for a wide range of customers.  This could include creating models, fabrication drawings, renderings and animations.  I usually have multiple projects happening at once so things can become hectic.  Nights you can usually find me creating renderings for various clients through my own business Axis CAD Solutions LLC.  Again I’m usually working on multiple projects of varying degrees of difficulty  across a wide spectrum of products.  I’ve also branched out into the education side of the software, collaborating on a rendering book for SolidWorks and providing rendering training classes for clients.

Q7: What tips can you share for staying focused on a large project?

Organization is really the key, especially when you’re working on multiple projects.  Document every detail of each rendering set up, you never know when you’ll need to go back to a particular point in time.  Time management is also very important.  It’s easy to become overwhelmed by  a large project but if you manage your time wisely and work in an organized fashion you’ll be amazed at how quickly it can all come together.

Q8: What part of 3D modeling and rendering do you find most rewarding?

I really like it when I’m surfing the web or looking at a magazine and I see one of my images.  I can say, “I did that”.

Q9: Just for fun, what is you favorite game?  Movie?  Comic Book?

My all time favorite movie is Rocky I and II.  The whole “David vs. Goliath” theme appeals to me, probably because I’ve felt like the underdog most of my life.  Sci-fi action movies appeal to me the most, probably because of the special effects.  I’m always fascinated by how “real” it all looks in the movies. Star Wars, The Matrix, Alien, all great flicks.

Thanks, Rob, for taking time from your busy work and travel schedule to help 3DVIA visitors understand a little bit more about other areas of the world where 3D models are making a big difference.

Blake Metzler is the Associate Director of 3D Animation at the Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University(CDIABU). As a man of many talents, Blake has worked as a teacher (New York Film Academy), writer, director, musician, actor, editor, and master of ceremonies (among other roles). His 3D art has appeared in films, video games, architecture, websites, and print.   His work on Episode 604: The Final Project won him the prestigious EVVY Award for Best Animation in 2004. He has also done commercial work for the likes of Polaroid and The Thoreau Society.  He’s an accomplished guitarist and his band PBR has been featured in AMP and Loud Fast Rules Magazine.

Q1: How did you get your first break in the Gaming/Entertainment Industry?

Ha! That’s assuming that I got a “break” at some point. In all honesty, my first professional job was to create 5 different 30 second animations for an educational DVD. I got that gig through a fellow student and friend I made in grad school who didn’t think he could do it. To be honest, I didn’t think I could either, but that didn’t stop me from grabbing it! I really learned a lot on that project and am a firm believer in trial by fire. So the ‘how’ I got it was by being social, networking and above all having confidence in myself to take on something new. I think that these are all still the key today.

Q2: How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?

The answer to that question is not short and is going to depend on tons of variables that would change from project to project: Will the model deform and/or animate? How close to the model will the camera get? Is there a poly count? Etc….. Obviously, I spend much more time on character modeling because of the need for clean geometry and appropriate flow lines. But if it’s a mechanical model, I will care less about n-gons and get it done faster. Ultimately the budget and schedule determine how much time to spend. Artwork is never finished (only abandoned) and I only abandon it after putting in as much time as possible without missing a deadline. On average, I’d say one to two full days of modeling for one model.

Q3: What program do you use for modeling and what 3rd party software do you use to make your job easier?

I’m a 3D generalist through and through. Although I think XSI, 3DS, and even Lightwave have amazing attributes that are better than Maya individually, pound for pound, Maya gives the most ability in the 3D pipeline. Since I think that, I generally use Maya to model, with a heavy dose of Mudbox and/or Z-brush for detailing. Ultimately these are just tools and the tools are bound to change over time, so I don’t get too comfortable with any of them. Oh yeah and (of course) all of the Adobe stuff…

Q4: What is your day like?

I really wish I could answer that with consistency. Currently, I’m the Associate Director of 3D animation at the CDIA at Boston University. On any given day I will be teaching, freelancing, doing research, interviewing, answering e-mails, and working on curriculum from when I wake up until I hit the pillow. The day is impossible to predict and that’s why I like it.

Q5: What influenced you into becoming a 3D Artist?

I was a film major (minored in theater), so naturally after college I made films and got a real job to pay the bills (carpentry and renovation). I was in the emergency room getting stitched up from a table saw injury and thought it might be good to do something a little less hazardous to my health and a little more kind to my wallet. I went to graduate school (originally for web design) and when I took my first 3D elective, it was over.

Q6: Favorite game?  Movie?  Comic Book?

I don’t do favorites… but I’ll give you 3 good ones of each. Game wise, I think the Grand Theft Autos, the Guitar Heroes, and The Final Fantasy series are pivotal. Movie wise, I don’t get behind a flick just because it has good computer generated imagery. The Evil Dead movies, Fight Club and Star Wars (you know which ones) are the first that come to mind. I was a big comic fan when I was younger, so this one is pretty easy; X-men, Spiderman, Spawn.

Q7: What are your tips to staying focused on a large model/project?

Honestly, keep track of everything you do! Even if it means keeping a little journal documenting what you do each day. Also, make schedules, follow through on them and don’t put stuff off! I’ve gotten burnt (as all of you either have or will) by waiting until the last minute to tackle a big project. And leave nothing on the cutting room floor!!! Until super computers all render final gathering and ray-tracing in real-time, we don’t have time to do that!

I want to thank Blake for taking part of this interview.  Apart from being an excellent personage, he is a fantastic resource and a great educator. After a few minutes of working with him, you get the feeling that he puts a great positive energy into whatever he’s working on and brings you along for the ride.  You can view more of Blake Metzlers work from his website.

Peter is a Production Artist at Turbine Entertainment working on Lord of the Rings Online Massively Multi-player Online Game.  He’s also worked for Electronic Arts, Sony Interactive and Vivendi Universal on such titles as Bulletproof, Everquest II and James Bond: From Russia with Love.  Along with his professional duties, he also teaches at the Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University (CDIABU) in Massachusetts USA.  His 2D illustration work has been featured in The Boston Globe, The Miami Herald and the Chicago Tribune.

Q1:  How did you get your first break in the Gaming/Entertainment Industry?

My first few opportunities were as a subcontractor for some rather unsuccessful titles.  I had interviewed with Ballistic Pixel (BP) Lab back in 2003 to work their then Middle Earth Online contract with Turbine Games. I unfortunately had to turn the job down due to pay requirements, but I guess I left a good impression.  When I worked at CDIA BU, BP contacted me to do some subcontract work.  I mainly did some props, but I did get one character. The important thing for me was the end client names like  Sony Interactive, Vivendi Universal and Electronic Arts.  Doing less than glamorous work was okay.

Q2:  How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?

When you’re in production, you need to be aware of deadlines. You have to learn to not only produce high quality, but also in a timely matter.  I typically spend anywhere between 5-15 days on a character depending on its complexity and importance.

Q3:  What program do you use for modeling and what 3rd party software do you use to make your job easier?

I mainly model in Maya, but I use Zbrush for high resolution models.  It’s a Maya to Zbrush work-flow at the moment.  I imagine in the future I may cut out Maya altogether. UV layout by Headus is by far the best 3rd party software I have come across in a while. The hardest part used to be getting your UV’s just right, now UV layout takes all the guess work out.  It’s awesome. I also have to mention Crazybump and Xnormal, both incredible software to produce high quality Normal Maps with ease.

Q4:  What is your day like?

Work, work and more work, but that’s how I like it :)

I usually get in around 9:30 and get right to work. I take lunch at 11:30 for an hour or so. The afternoon is where I spend my time really getting into what I’m working on, surfing the web for textures, etc.  I make sure to keep EVERY image I find for reference or overlays. I typically listen to my favorite TV shows or movies while I work.

Sometimes I skip lunch and practice Zbrush, but I’ve always got a good cup of cereal to get me through.

Q5:  What influenced you into becoming a 3D Artist?

Well, I started off my career in traditional illustration. I was pretty successful, but was always concerned about full time employment.  I am not the sort of illustrator to get into concept; guess I’m not all that imaginative, but I love to create.  Being a Production Artist just seemed the perfect fit. Maybe someday I’ll paint again, who knows.

Q6:  Favorite game? Movie? Comic Book?

My favorite game… that’s tough.  I’m kind of old school, but you have to remember the roots.  Let me give you my top 5 in no particular order: Bionic Commando (NES), Metroid (NES, N64, GC,  Wii), Dragon’s Lair (Arcade), Zelda (NES, N64, GC,  Wii), Pac Man (arcade).

My favorite Movie? Here’s a few: The 40 Year Old Virgin, Van Wilder, Billy Madison, Clerks, Naked Gun, Airplane, The Natural, Unbreakable, Raiders of the Lost Ark, August Rush, Austin Powers, Major Payne, Office Space, Strange Brew, The Rundown, Better off Dead, and One Crazy Summer. I could go on and on but I’ll stop with just one more:  Spaceship… horribly awesome!

Q7:  What are your tips to staying focused on a large model/project?

That’s easy, I just think of all the crappy jobs I had before this and remember how much fun it is to do anything on LOTRO!

Peter was one of my teachers at CDIA, and I was always impressed by his energy and endless instant knowledge of Maya and how things work.  He’s tirelessly tinkering and improving on his work making all of his art look fantastic.  Peter’s website is currently going through renovations but as soon as it’s available I’ll edit the post and add a comment so you can all see his jaw dropping images.   And we may be adding some images soon of his work with Lord of The Rings Online.   Thank you Pete for doing the interview!

Welcome everyone to 3DVIA’s first Featured Artist interview!  In these posts we aim to ask industry veteran 3D Artists a few questions and showcase their work for our community members.  Today’s Featured Artist is Bryan Silva.  Bryan  worked for Rockstar New England (formerly MadDoc Software) creating a wide variety of game models and is currently working for Image Movers Digital, the company behind Polar Express and Beowulf.  The bad boy in the image above is none other than Danny Trejo, and is one of the models created by Bryan in 3D.

How did you get your first break in the Gaming/Entertainment Industry?

I spent a lot of time at online forums like Polycount and CGTalk posting my work and getting critiques. I sought out tutorials that would help me learn the software I was using. Then I started getting emails from people working at game companies that had seen my work on the forums. None of those materialized into a job offer for me, though. I had a few art tests sent to me that also never materialized.  I sent myself to GDC two times before ever landing a job in the game industry. The experience of attending was great. They have tutorials that you can attend where industry professionals share their knowledge with conference attendees. I learned a lot from those tutorials. Plus GDC is a great environment to network with industry professionals. I remember I had gone to Kinkos and printed business cards with my name, number, my online portfolio url  and what I was good at doing in 3d. I started to apply to game  studios and it took a little over a year to get an onsite interview. The developer that ended up hiring me had my resume on file from a year earlier when I had applied. It was so out of the blue I was very surprised and happy.

How much time do you spend, on average, on one particular model?

While in the game industry two weeks to a month to do a character. When it’s a personal project I tend to spend more time on it than I could on the job. Im now in the film industry working on blend shapes. I usually spend one to 3 days on a shape depending on its complexity.

What program do you use for modeling, and what 3rd party software do you use to make your job easier?

3dsmax with Polyboost, Polygon Cruncher, Crazybump, Maya with NEX, proprietary scripts at my job, Mudbox, Zbrush.

What is your day like?

I work on blendshapes for a film that is completely CG. There are actors that I create shapes for as well as shapes for the characters based on those actors. There are rounds daily where your work is reviewed by your superiors. Weekly meetings. Dailies, where artists submit their work to be reviewed by other departments and studio heads. It’s a really great environment. Its really exciting to see progress. In games, you get to do a whole character which is great, but you don’t have as much time or technology to devote to the character. In film you work on one part of the characters’ creation, and everyone who works on it, nails the part he or she is working on. Its really nice to see it come together.

What influenced you into becomming a 3D Artist?

My love of comic book art from McFarlane, Greg Capullo, Dale Keown, Steven Platt, led me indirectly to 3d. I remember recreating a panel for a comic book. Falling in love with all the details those artists put into their work. I wanted to be a part of animation and the lack of details in traditional animation led me to 3d animation.

Favorite game? Favorite Movie? Favorite Comic Book?

I think my favorite game was Resident Evil. I remember being so captivated and actually jumping from the suspence. Movie, man, I can’t call it. Too many favorites. Spawn was my favorite comic of all time.

What are your tips to staying focused on a large model/project?

I think 3d is a pleasure to do. I am so happy that I don’t wake up dreading going into work. I even work on personal projects outside of work. Staying focused shouldn’t be a problem in this line of work in my opinion.

We want to thank Bryan for taking part in this interview.  I personally learned a lot from his answers and by just looking at the work on his site.  Make sure you guys check out his website, and post all your comments here!