It seems almost impossible to find a story related to the world of competitive cycling these days that isn’t drenched in shamefulness or suspicion. Thankfully, the modeling industry is seldom susceptible to such scandal. The beautiful render that now graces our front page features a spectacular model of a racing cyclist as he rides an equally impressive road bike 3D model—the handy work of TurboSquid artist dmk76. Both models share the Checkmate Pro Certified badge, as does 1/3 of the artist’s catalog.
Read how dmk76 took his love of childhood art and evolved it into a successful career in 3D artistry.
Tell us a little about how you got your start as an artist and then into 3D modeling.
I began drawing and painting in my early childhood and continued to draw through college. I think I must like the act of creation, moving through the process, finalizing the result. So it’s no surprise that I loved 3D modeling when I discovered it in the early 2000s; creating something out of nothing is the quintessence of modeling.
My start as a modeler had a commercial tint to it. I began as a signs visualizer, studying 3ds max 4 from its help section. I began to come across other artists’ work, admired just what an astonishing tool 3D was, and started creating my own models at home after work.
What’s most important when making 3D models?
I think that, above all, a 3D modeler has to have a lot of patience and must let the process of creation flow naturally. They must be prepared to work thoroughly, gradually, slowly, and a lot.
What inspires you to create a model? Real world objects, books, other sources?
I’m driven by the work of other artists and the world of 3d modeling itself, but the potential to be useful to fellow artists and people around the world inspires me the most. Of course I enjoy any recognition I get from my esteemed peers, as well.
How long have you been with TurboSquid? Would you or have you recommended TurboSquid to others?
I published my first model on TurboSquid in 2008, and it literally changed my life. I was shocked to know I could make additional income that would actually compete with my salary. Because of the worldwide economic crisis, I lost my day job in 2010, but it ultimately had a positive effect on my financial position because I began to spend more time creating models for TS. Now I don’t even plan to look for another job, happily doing freelance work for my clients and occasionally publishing new models at TurboSquid. I would certainly recommend TS and already have to several of my modeling friends.
What has been your experience with CheckMate?
CheckMate was tough at first. But I believe the program is intended to make the customer’s life easier, not the artist’s, so it is worth the extra time and effort we have to spend. Now when I’m preparing models for publishing, I automatically take the CheckMate specs into account, so it’s no longer that much more work. And of course I think the artists also benefit from the program.
Want to see your CheckMate Pro Certified Model featured on the TurboSquid Home Page? Anything is possible if you just SUBMIT YOUR MODEL!