In a community-wide vote, Renderosity’s members have chosen Germany’s Blue_Steel, known to friends and family as Fred Schunke to be our Artist of the Month for April, 2025.

Schunke was born in 1962 in Bad Langensalza but spent most of his time growing up in Suhl in the green heart of Germany in the state of Thuringia.

 Due to an illness, Blue_Steel found it difficult to work a full-time job. He first became involved with graphics as a photographer. Later, he was introduced to computers by his stepfather, who challenged Schunke to learn them himself.  

 When starting out in 3D imaging, he said, “my path to my current work was hard and paved with many setbacks, and when the DAZ studio came out, I didn't have the patience, and I didn't have the money to afford the figures.”

 However, as time went by, he found he became more comfortable with the newer versions of the software.  

 “I'm still not really satisfied with my pictures. The subtleties remain closed to me, because I still don't fully understand the functions due to a lack of English skills,” he said.

Obviously, Blue_Steel is doing something right! We sat down and asked about his time as a designer.

Q&A with Blue_Steel

 What’s the most important tool you use for your work now and why?

My most important tool to create my pictures is the DAZ Studio. With it I am sure to get at least presentable results.

Why did you decide to join Renderosity?

I came across Renderosity by chance. Above all, the opportunity to share my work with others attracted me.

How has your own work changed over the years?

My work has changed in that I am more systematic. First comes the idea, then the question, can I implement this idea and only then do I start with the creation. My journey in this regard is still open.

If you could have dinner with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

My favorite artist is Luis Royo.

What are your favorite subjects? What do you really get immersed in?

For me, there is no favorite topic. My topics extend from the everyday to fantasy. It's enough for me to just see a report and I have a certain image in my mind's eye.

Have you had any kind of life experience that drives your focus in your artwork?

The disease made me deal with the creation of my pictures. Since my mother is a potter, I also dealt with it.

Is or are there other artists that influence you, or do you have a mentor that has helped at any point?

I didn't have a mentor. I taught myself what can be seen in my work.

 What ideas do you have for future projects?

I have no ideas for future projects. I can only be guided by my mental state and what seems important to me the day before.

What tips do you have for those who are just getting started in 3D artwork?

My tip to the beginners is not to be discouraged, continue and the success will come.