For our first, of hopefully many elite artists interviews, we bring you the great 'Marco Spitoni' - complete with some of his fantastic artwork!

In terms of CG, How did it all begin for you?

It all started at my workplace. I work for a videogames developer company and in the early 1995 I was introduced to the old 3D Studio R4. At the beginning I was really scared by 3D graphics, I used to be a 2D artist, working basically with old bitmap graphics (De Luxe Paint). Later I've discovered how powerful this mean is, and I've started modelling something more complex than low polygon meshes, which are used for real-time applications. I've tried some dinosaurs animations and soon after, being a Star Wars fan, I've created some of the vehicles seen in the trilogy.

What was your very first CG project? was it a success?

My first project was 'Join the Empire!', a full CG clip based on Star Wars universe. It was a sort of Imperial recruitment trailer. It was also the chance to use my Star Wars models in something more interesting than a show reel. It seems that it got a good success among the web community, Star Wars fans were particulary happy to see it. Some amateur modelmakers, even started to build physical models of some of the original vehicles I designed for the clip.

How long have you been in CG and what is your current job?

Since about 6/7 years. I'm still working for videogames industry as Senior Artist.

What has been your greatest accomplishment in your career?

Definitely my last project, which is a 7 mins full CG short movie: "THE HUNT". It's on selection for the Imagina Awards 02.

Of all of your artwork, which piece is your personal favorite and why?

Actually I have more than one to choose from. But maybe my favourite is the flying Mechabeast, a render made during "THE HUNT" production. I like colors and lighting, and altough is actually a still image it gives a good sense of motion.

What is one piece of advice you would give to the aspiring artist?

To feel and to act as a traditional artist. Looking at real life and art. Trying to understand what makes a picture interesting... 3D softwares are only tools, is the artist behind that counts.

What software program(s) do you use for your CG and why?

I use 3D Studio MAX. It's user friendly and.... Well, I love it, that's all.

What are you plans for the future?

I'm taking a brief break after my last project. But I've already started to work on a new full CG short movie.

Are you working on any projects currently? If so, what are they?

Yes. As I said, I've already started to work on a new idea for a short movie. The concept is very simple, and again you'll see 'machines' in it. Anyway, it's maybe too early to talk about it... You'll learn more about it on my site in the future.

Can you give away one of your CG secrets to success?

I really would like to... But actually there are no secrets!