Renderosity is pleased to bring you Flint_Hawk, our May 2026 Artist of the Month, not only for the recognition of excellent work, but also as a treat for an artist who seems to have reached a point in life of being at ease in one’s own skin.  

“The Pacific Northwest has always been my home, from the high desert of southern Idaho to the high desert of northern Oregon,” said Flint_Hawk.

After graduation from college, I promptly invested in a printing press, plus all of the other equipment needed to start my own business. Back then computers, copiers, etc. didn't exist and cameras only took black & white pictures. My plan was to design and produce a large range of stationery items that featured my artwork, including pieces that were done on commission.”

Over the years, the line of products created expanded to include T-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, jewelry, etc. The customer base included individuals, stores and magazines and the distribution of products went worldwide.

“At the same time, I was working as a horse show photographer and developing film for other photographers, doing mural size paintings, business signs and even designing advertising for semi-trailers. To say I kept busy was an understatement,” said the artist.

In 2000, after decades of exhausting work, doing less and less art that Flint_Hawk wanted to do, plans changed in order to have time to do more art that would sell commercially, and begin a new stage of life…retirement.

“So that I wouldn't be coerced into resuming my business, I sold all of the equipment that I had acquired over the years.

“Fortunately, that was when I met Lyne of Lyne's Creations/Vista Internet Products. Originally, we had been competitors in the stationary line of business, but now she became my mentor in the new world of computer art.” 

After sharing that background information, Flint_Hawk was kind enough to share some more specific personal information below:

Q&A

What was your first interest in computers and what did you like doing with them?

 Learning to do art on a computer was not only fun and relaxing, but it was also challenging and required a different form of creativeness. It was like starting into a new segment of my life, that I had never dreamed of. It invigorated me and I found myself enjoying doing art again. With the help of Lyne I began to not only create digital art, but also to produce products for her store, under the name Snowfire Graphics. Over the years we formed a lasting friendship.

In those early days of exploring this new world of computers, I also had the good fortune of meeting Ken Gilliland and I discovered that I not only liked all of his products, I also enjoyed beta testing them. He has taught me so much.

How long have you been creating art of any kind and what/when did you move into computer graphic arts?

 As soon as I was old enough to hold a crayon, I became obsessed with doing art. My growing artistic abilities proved to be very useful all the way through school and my working years. It was only after retiring that I discovered digital art.

 What was the process moving you from getting a first feel for the tools and software for design, to creating images you were pleased with and wanted to share with others?

I was fortunate to have an extensive background in art, plus lots of practical experience. That gave me a head start in creating my work. All I had to do was learn how to use the new digital tools. That has been an ongoing process and as I have felt more comfortable with them and have experimented more with them, I feel that my work is continually improving.  

How would you describe your style? Would you say you have a common theme throughout your work?

My goal is to capture the beauty of nature in my art, occasionally with a touch of humor and to have fun doing it.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Currently the great variety of products created by Ken _Gilliland keeps me inspired. All of his creations are life-like and very detailed, which is what I want in my work.

What is or are your favorite programs to use now and why?

 Poser is my all-time favorite. It works with me. The only times I use Daz Studio and Blender is to convert products from a duf or FBX to an obj so that they can be used in Poser. 

 How has your work changed over time? Where do you think it’s headed?

 It's easy for me to see that my early work was cruder. My goal is to always strive for improvement and always keep challenging myself.

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

I have always felt a relationship with animals, and I like to show the interaction between them and, hopefully, also make a connection with the viewer.

 With the arrival of AI in digital art, what are your thoughts on its use?

When I started as a commercial artist, digital art did not exist. When I first became aware of it, I never thought I would become involved in using it. Now, with AI, I again think that I will never become involved with it ... but who knows what the future will hold?  

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

Lyne was a great friend and so inspiring to me that it would be amazing to meet her. She had a kind heart and a very giving nature. Sadly, she passed away in April of 2021.

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

This question really made me think, until I realized that for me it is my art that makes me strive to see the beauty in life.

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

 I have already mentioned how important Lyne and Ken have been in my artistic rebirth, but with the opening of HiveWire3D there were also ChristopherCreek Art, CGCubed and Laurie Prindle (aka CWRW), all now at Renderosity.

 What ideas do you have for future projects?

 I like to be surprised, so I will have to wait and see what is next.

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

 Whatever it is that inspires you, have fun creating it and don't be afraid to experiment.

 If there’s anything else you’d like to communicate as an artist for the article, please do so. I want to hear whatever you want to say about creating your designs.

 I would like to express my appreciation to all of the staff and members of Renderosity for making this site such a helpful and welcoming home for artists.  Thank you for selecting me as the May Artist of the Month.