Eggcelent Interview with 3D printed Easter challenge winners!

As September is kicking on, all you can think about are those sweet memories of Spring holidays. Some of us are enjoying the colorful magic of Autumn, but for the rest of you Spring lovers, we have something different and charming in its own way - the last 3D printed Easter challenge winners and their works!

CGTrader: How did you get started in 3D modeling?

Tanya: I went to college for game design and development. Since then, I've been 3D modeling for nearly 10 years now.

Roma: I got started in 3D modeling inspired by the works of other CG artists.

Alexander: I started doing something like that a long time ago. In my childhood, I had a construction set - you know, that one with plastic parts and modules. At the university, I began studying modeling with such programs as Solidworks, CATIA etc., it was interesting and I realized that my work would be connected with 3D. So when I started looking for a job I had chosen the 3D-modeling area. One day my friend brought me to the jewelry company. The 3D technology was new in jewelry industry at that time. I learned about Maya and gained a lot of knowledge and practice there. It was very cool! After a couple of years I decided to go into freelance. I learnt a lot of new and interesting things and got strong expertise. To this day I am a freelancer.

Best model Vase Easter Rabit by Roma Charikov

CGTrader: Where are you searching for the daily inspiration?

Tanya: Google Images and Pinterest, mostly. I also check out online 3D markets and 3D print sites too. 3dtotal.com is a good site for industry news, tutorials, and to view other people's work.

Roma: My daily inspiration is world culture.

Alexander: This is an interesting question, if I knew from which side it would come, I would catch it with a special box and never let it go. In fact, my main source of inspiration is my family. My wife says “if you do not work – go and wash the dishes!” Believe me, it is incredibly inspiring! Actually she is well versed in the current trends and gives me good advice. And our little son is an endless inspiration.

CGTrader: Why have you decided to try yourself in this challenge and how have you came with the ideas for the models for this contest?

Tanya: I enjoy Alice in Wonderland artwork and the March Hare was the result of one of my weekly/monthly Zbrush sketches that I loved so much I turned into a 3D print. I submitted the design to the challenge as I thought it would fit the theme of Easter and the springtime.

Roma: I tried this competition because I like difficult and interesting tasks. The model for this contest was designed considering aesthetic and practical qualities.

Alexander: Because - why not? The idea came by itself. I always wanted to do something like that and the theme of the competition prompted to turn one of the main symbols of Easter into jewelry. So I have created the Easter Jewelry collection.

1st runner-up Alice in Wonderland by Tanya Wiesner

CGTrader: What are the main challenges you are facing in modeling?

Tanya: Trying to decide what I want to create next. I have too many ideas I want to turn into sketches and 3D. Time is another factor. Setting time aside to do personal work isn't always an option for me each week.

Roma: Development of the concept is the most difficult step in the modeling. The detailed and over-thought model is much easier to bring to life.

Alexander: My main problem is laziness. There were a couple of technical points that I did not know before. But this is not a problem - on the contrary, it is very interesting to learn new techniques.

2nd runner-up Easter Decoration by Norb

CGTrader: Any advice for those who are just about to start their career as a 3D designer?

Tanya: If you are new to 3D printing or 3D in general, don’t be afraid to connect with other designers and ask questions. Most designers are willing to share their insight and give tips to help a fellow designer out. For those seeking a career involving 3D, contract work is a good start. Contracting can help you connect and build a strong portfolio as well as help you quickly gain additional experience.

Roma: To those who only get in the way of 3D designer I would advise to be bolder and take an active part in such events, to love their work, and continue their self-education.

Alexander: Don't neglect the courses, master-classes, competitions, even if you think you are an expert. At such events you will always meet new people, it is very important, especially real-life communication. I wish you luck in all your beginnings!

Best Portfolio by Alexander Vakhmenin