Who is EricClaeys? I am a student currently studying illustration and design at Colorado State University. I have always had an interest in illustrating fantasy and sci-fi, so it was just natural that it carrier over into modeling. I grew up mostly in a small town on a small 'ranch'. My first introduction to the 3D arts was in high school - to this day I think I am still the only person who has ever opened the Rhino 1.0 box; that for some odd reason my school bought and never even intended on using. How long have you have you been rendering/doing computer graphics? I have been modeling for about 4 years, off and on self-taught. I think my first computer related graphics were the Megaman Villains I drew in Paint in elementary school. Ever since I played my first video game, I've wanted to get involved in computer graphics. Do you have traditional art experience? I was originally a drawing major, and pretty good at it, but I switched simply because they wouldn't let me draw the things I truly enjoy. I'm also taking a few metalsmithing/jewelry classes. Perhaps I'll get a double major or minor in drawing or metals... What are you currently working on? At the moment I am designing a Playstation 2 dvd case, instruction guide, and cd cover (entirely fictional) for my graphic design class. In terms of modeling, I am always working on about 3-4 projects at my own pace. What software do you use and why? I mainly use Rhino, I believe it is one of the best modeling programs on the market (opinions vary ;P). I also use Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and whenever I get the chance I play around in 3D Studio Max. What do you think your best piece of work is and why? I think my best model so far is my hardsuit Sphyrina in the gallery. She isn't the most detailed (that would be my latest space ship), but I had the most fun with it and the final product turned out better than had I hoped. Why do you like to work with 3D software? I truly enjoy being able to create my own little worlds, objects or characters - having the ability to interact with them and look at them as if they might really exist. Being able to rotate and view it from any angle only adds to this feeling. Working in 3D is a lot like illustrating in that you are able to create an image that might have only existed in you mind. What inspires you? I tend to find most of my inspiration here at Renderosity with the models and images people create. My models are often inspired by games and movies. Just about anything can be inspiring; it's funny, but just today I found inspiration in a rock, heh, it had the shape and texture of a dragon's head. How has this online community (Renderosity) enhanced your work, relationships, and learning? I can never repay all people here who have helped me out so much. I have learned, and keep learning a lot in the forums and galleries. The vast amount of knowledge and inspiration is endless. Parting Comments / Advice to other Artists? Keep cranking out all those beautiful models and images. Go all the way with your creations! Never settle if you know you can do better, and try not the blame the machine ;) Thanks again!!!
Click here to visit EricClaeys' Gallery...

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