3DTotal Interviews

3DTotal -Where do you see yourself in a 10 years time?
Tyler - I'm writing a story or two, as well as designing characters for them. I want to have my fingers in all the pies; whether it’s writing, designing, illustrating or directing I want to try it all. In today's market, great movies or video games aren't the product of one person's work but, a whole team of talented individuals. The more knowledge and experience I have of any art position, the more competent I will be in giving direction for it. Ten years from now I'd love to see my characters on screen and in print, entertaining audiences and telling great stories that are remembered and felt for years to come.

3DTotal - Who inspires you artistically?
Tyler - How about a top 7 in no specific order.

- Todd McFarlane - he's had such a big influence on my artistic development growing up, no one else has come close to it. McFarlane's artwork might not impress me as much today as it did then but, his business model definitely has to be admired. As long as the action figures stay cool, I’m good with Todd.
- Michelangelo - there is always something to be gleaned from the old masters of the renaissance. Remember, there’s a reason they’re called “masters”. Out of the bunch, I like more of Mike’s pieces than the rest so, he’s my fav.

- My peers – this one’s a bit of a cheat. When I go online and check out all the different art forums, there’s always great work to see. I really like visiting them, as there’s so much to be inspired by, and it’s great to contribute at the same time.

- James Hawkins – Feng Zhu was my favorite concept artist for a while but, as soon as I saw this guy’s stuff everything changed. I really like the flavor Hawkins gives all his characters. They’re usually sci-fi, a little mutilated, and more often than not they have big guns. Ever play the Unreal Tournament games by Epic? He probably designed something you saw in them.

- Alex Ross – another comic book artist!? Ross has brought heaps of believability and class to many classic characters! The characters he paints have a realism that I’ve never seen in comic books before. He’s kind of like Norman Rockwell but, with comic books.

- Carlos Huante – this guy is a concept artist at Lucas Digital, and that’s saying something in itself. The way he pushes and pulls anatomy while retaining realism in the characters is inspiring. Not to mention his brilliant technical skills. He released an art book called ‘Monstruo’. If you don’t have it and you’re reading this my friend, buy it, you won’t be disappointed.

- Greg Capullo - he started on ‘Spawn’ as a solid comic book artist and left it a master. I haven't seen anyone draw comics that have such fluidity. His drawings are so powerful and raw, they always amaze and inspire.

3DTotal - What is one piece of advice you would give to any artist looking to get into 3D??
Tyler - The appeal of 3D is the same as a beautiful woman you haven't met yet, or a new McFarlane action figure that has to be purchased. Until it’s yours, it sits there, out of reach, mocking you in its glorious perfection. You can't help but fantasize about getting your hands on it.
Now, the mistake too many make with 3D is rushing in blind, with no experience. Make sure you've got some TRADITIONAL ART SKILLS boys and girls. It's much easier to learn 3D software than it is to draw. You'll have a huge advantage over the other guy if you've just got some plain, old-fashioned art skills. This advice is especially important for modelers and texture artists. As for animators, who cares? MODELLERS RULE!!! Mwahahahaha!!!

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