Carpe Diem

I created this short demo from scratch, using the software I generally use for video games and real-time rendering. I set up a composition with lighting and cameras, and then used the sequencer in Unreal Engine 5 to create a cinematic rendering with path tracing.

As shown below, for the mug creation process, I made a model sheet based on reference photos provided. I began by using Blender to create the basic 3D geometry of the prop, and then used ZBrush to add fine details and ornaments, ensuring accuracy and fidelity to the original model.

In the video below, you can see that after working on the mesh's clean retopology and UV layout using both Blender and ZBrush, I moved on to Substance 3D for the baking and texturing process.

For the creation of the old book, I also used Blender for polymodeling. To find inspiration for the dust jacket design, I browsed the internet, where the title 'Carpe Diem' came to mind. I then used ZBrush to sculpt the engraving and embossing, applying efficient techniques.

As shown in the sped-up video below, I completed the retopology and UV layout of the mesh using both Blender and ZBrush, followed by baking and texturing in Substance 3D.

For the wooden planks where the props are placed, I sculpted them in ZBrush and Adobe, then retopologized and unwrapped the UVs using Blender and ZBrush, and completed the baking and texturing in Substance 3D.

To finalize the project, I exported all the props and textures into Unreal Engine, along with scanned assets like the apple and basil. I set up a layout with cameras and lights, created UE materials, and made final adjustments in Unreal to achieve the visual results displayed at the top of this webpage.

Additionally, I added the beautiful soundtrack from the Harry Potter film to the clip and completed the cinematic editing in Unreal Engine using Adobe Premiere Pro. Below is the model sheet of the Harry Potter mug that I used as a reference to create it as a 3D real-time asset.

This is the model sheet of the Harry Potter mug, which I used as the foundation to create it as a 3D real-time asset.

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Sonic Super Team

I created all the miniatures for this Sonic tabletop game, released in Europe, using 3D sculpting and printing technologies, combined with my traditional art and molding skills. I also completed the retopology of the meshes for these 8 characters and handled the texturing to support the teaser.

I have a strong affinity for buggy cars, so I created this buggy from scratch using various reference pictures of this type of vehicle. I used Blender for all the polygon modeling and UV mapping processes, and I utilized Substance 3D for baking the input maps and texturing. Additionally, I used ZBrush to sculpt parts with higher levels of detail to incorporate into the normal map. I created the number plate graphics in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. I also experimented with some HDR environment maps and performed 3D rendering using Iray. My goal was to replicate the sparkling blue paint of the reference cars I used.

Here is another collectible I created from scratch in ZBrush. I used Unreal Engine 5 and its sequencer to produce the 3D turntable presented here.

I sculpted this version of Link from Link's Awakening in ZBrush, using a collectible as my reference. As an art and 3D teacher, I create numerous tutorials and courses, and this is one example. I always choose subjects or characters that I think will engage my students, as I believe it's important for them to enjoy the learning process in my classes. I chose Link because he has a simple overall shape while also allowing for a mix of organic sculpting and hard surface modeling, making it an excellent way to introduce ZModeler techniques. During classes, I clearly explain and demonstrate the following key steps in the 3D character creation process using a video projector: model sheet creation, sculpting, retopology, UV unwrapping, texturing, setup, and animation (for simplicity, I used Mixamo) as well as 3D rendering.

Here is the Lapin Crétin I created based on the famous Ubisoft game character, which I like very much! I wanted to reproduce Ubisoft's techniques and art style to create another course for the Art and 3D class I teach. This presentation showcases the full process: I used ZBrush for sculpting, retopology, and UV mapping; texturing in Substance 3D; rigging and skinning in Blender; and finally, I created a short animated sequence in Unreal Engine 5, incorporating some post-processing effects to enhance the clip's appeal. I also handled the video editing in Adobe Premiere Pro, adding the original soundtrack from the Raving Rabbids that I downloaded

Here is a low-poly car I sculpted based on my own concept art, which you can see at the bottom of this page. I created a model sheet inspired by my concept art directly in Adobe Photoshop, and then I used it as a base for sculpting in ZBrush. After that, I checked the retopology and UV mapping, and I prepared all the materials in Autodesk Maya before exporting the mesh to Substance 3D. I then baked the input maps and textured it. The goal of the tutorial I created for my school was to teach the Bitmap mask techniques and demonstrate how to work with Adobe Photoshop in combination with Substance 3D, along with effective ZBrush techniques and workflow organization.

Mitch Pigs Demo

Here is a short demo I created from scratch to explore the new update of Unreal Engine 5. My goal was to push the boundaries of my technical knowledge by utilizing Lumen for lighting, along with many other software tools I generally use for video games and real-time rendering. I sculpted the pigs based on a concept art piece I discovered while watching the Instagram artist Mitch Leeuwe. I really enjoy his overall cartoon style, which reminds me of the Preston Blair animation books that I’m particularly fond of. This inspiration led me to create a 3D version of this cute little pig.

Here is a collectible I created from scratch based on my own concept art and love for this character, using ZBrush. Dragon Ball Z is one of my favorite childhood anime series, and I had a great time sculpting this piece in 2014; it’s one of my older works. I remember struggling at that time to create the cloud in 3D because there were only 2D references available, and there weren't many merchandise items or collectibles of Son Goku molded back then.

Here are some miniatures I created based on my concept art for the board game Battle Zone. I sculpted them in ZBrush, using the same techniques employed by Avalanche Software for the creation of the Disney Infinity figures, which have always been a great inspiration for me in terms of design and game concepts. I also used KeyShot for the 3D rendering. Additionally, I designed some trading cards for the game, as shown.

I designed the central piece of the game, the metal-cast medallion, based on the specifications I received and my own concept art. I utilized 3D sculpting and printing technologies, along with my traditional art and molding skills. Additionally, I designed the back of the cards and the token illustrations to match the medallion.

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