3D Art
Director/Produce/Project Manager/3D Artist
Led an IP collaboration project at Tencent Timi Studio, where I redesigned the Clear Sky Hammer from a popular Chinese anime into a premium in-game prop. The asset generated over one million yuan in sales and became a key monetization success. As director, producer, and 3D artist, I oversaw concept development, art direction, and real-time production using Unreal Engine. I collaborated with VFX, audio, and 3D teams to produce a cinematic commercial and the in-game Hammer assets within three months.
3D Modeling
Thought
Creating realistic or stylized details in 3D modeling is a complex process that combines technical expertise with artistic creativity. As a 3D modeling artist, I approach this task through a series of distinct yet interconnected steps.
The process begins with conceptualization. For realistic projects, this involves thorough research into real-world references, analyzing textures, lighting, and the physical characteristics of objects and environments. In contrast, stylized work draws inspiration from diverse art styles, cartoons, and media, aiming to create unique and imaginative designs.
During the modeling phase, I use software such as Substance Painter, Maya, or ZBrush to establish the model's basic shape or "skeleton." This foundational step is critical for further detailing. Realistic modeling requires precision in proportions and structure, while stylized modeling often embraces exaggerated or simplified forms.
Detailing and texturing play a pivotal role in defining a model's realism or stylization. Realistic models are crafted with meticulous attention to textures, replicating real-world surfaces through high-resolution images and advanced shading techniques to achieve lifelike appearances. Stylized models, on the other hand, often feature bold colors, simplified textures, or non-realistic shading, reflecting a specific artistic style or mood.
Lighting is another crucial factor. Realistic models require simulations of natural light, while stylized models often incorporate exaggerated or unconventional lighting setups. Finally, the rendering stage brings the project to completion, emphasizing how light interacts with materials and textures to create the final image or animation.
Throughout the process, I iterate multiple times, incorporating feedback from peers or mentors to refine the work. This iterative approach is essential for achieving the intended result, whether it’s a true-to-life representation or a fantastical artistic creation.
In every project, the artist's unique style and creativity are key to bringing 3D models to life, whether they mirror reality or explore the boundaries of imagination.