It just depends on which route you want to take. “Your 2D skills are just as valuable – if not more valuable – as any 3D program,” he says.ĭespite its usefulness, artists are still able to get work with no prior knowledge of 3D software. Houston warns that artists shouldn’t let 3D take over.

From there, the team can even take the 3D concept to use as a starting point for the final assets.” “If concept artists can start that 3D visualisation in the beginning design phase, it makes it easier for the rest of the team to understand what needs to built.

“Designs that concept artists create are meant for one thing: to be built,” explains concept artist and illustrator Houston Sharp.

The speed with which artists can lay down ideas with 3D software makes proficiency with tools such as ZBrush, Blender and Cinema 4D hugely desirable to clients – especially when it comes to concept art. The time spent exploring these methods has greatly improved my versatility and the range of resources at my disposal.” Career benefits “This meant I always had a solid foundation on which to build my images. The further discovery of DAZ 3D, which specialises in rigged 3D human models, enabled Foster to create full 3D scenes with minimal modelling involved, before he even put pencil to paper.

“Those illustrating children’s picture books or working in portraiture may not see any significant benefit.” Thomas points out that the usefulness of 3D depends on the career route.

Digital sculpting