Interview with Valentine's Day 3D printing challenge winners

One of the days you can't forget or your significant other may ( Oh, sorry, WILL) get extremely upset with you is Valentine's day. Yes, it's only once a year but that is exactly why you should get yourself a reminder! But as we all know you will forget to buy it (actually, this is the second reason you need that reminder...), so let us bring back the sweet memories of a challenge we organized for the day of Love by talking to Valentine's Day 3D printing challenge winners!

Oh, and don't forget, it's important to show your love every day!

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

Edis: In 2010 three of us started to learn some software modeling tools out of curiosity, and quickly got into the architectural visualization where we have done interiors and exteriors. Around half a year ago we discovered 3D printing and after doing some research we liked it and decided that we shall create a unique 3D printing shop called Artmax.

Alexander: I worked in video game industry for many years - including some time as modeler. Trying myself in 3D printing is a natural hobby, and still quite a fascinating one.

Andrew: As a child, when I had my first game console - I fell madly in love with computer games. My dream was to create these beautiful worlds in 3D. But then it was still a dream. And in the 17 years I knew exactly where I wanted to go to learn. We have a Computer Academy Step in Donetsk. It taught me the basics of 3D. After the release, I took a job at a game studio "Vogat Games" in 2010. Thus began my 3D career. I worked there for 3 years. Then started freelancing.

Best 3D Valentine's Challenge Model Infinity Heart by Edis Kujović

CGTrader: Where are you searching for the daily inspiration?

Edis: Our daily inspiration basically comes from everything. We are trying to implement 3D printing in every aspect of our modern lives and as a result we are constantly brainstorming new ideas and possibilities that can push the limits of 3D printing. Our goal is to create unique and innovative products without focusing on one subject.

Alexander: I have a folder called "Art and inspiration" for cool stuff I ran into on the web, but have no use for at the moment. Most of the times when I browse for something specific, a random exciting thing pops up in my results, and I store it. Days, months or years later, when I scroll through the folder, it might ignite some idea.

Andrew: I am inspired by different 3D galleries: - Artstation; 3dtotal; Render.ru; ZBrushCentral; CGTrader Gallery; Pinterest; Deviantart and etc.

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

Edis: This is our first product as a team and as a shop. We saw the challenge, brainstormed ideas, decided on the solution and then we modelled it. Since we are aware that good presentation matters we worked hard in doing it properly.

Alexander: I was planning some designs for personal use anyway. The challenge notification email caught me in a good experimental mood, so I guess things just coincided properly.

Andrew: On this day I met the ex-girlfriend. Memories of love to her inspired me to participate in this competition. When love came to my heart I went to make this rabbit!

1st Runner-up Valentine rabbit 3d print by Andrew Krivulya

CGTrader: How do you see the 3D printing industry in 10 years?

Edis: Experts think that 3D printing industry could change the way world works even more than the internet. We as a team think that such a statement is true - to some extent at least. Technology is developing from day to day and it is becoming more practical and available. Soon we will see offices and homes having 3D printers to suit their needs.

Alexander: I just hope we run into serious ethical issues that will prevent us from printing ourselves. At least not in 10 years. Every home will have a printer. You actually have a good place for it right now - you know, where this stupid freezer sits. We'll print food, clothes, replacement organs and even robots. Because - why not?

Andrew: Many corporations of 3D printing which will help people in medicine, architecture, space engineering.

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

Edis: For us the main challenges come in preparation for modeling. We take our time in preparing and planning and once we do that right, modeling usually isn't a problem. What is also important - to know all the design rules you must meet in order for your model to be printable. If you don't have that in mind and start designing or modeling - trouble is certain.

Alexander: My dog is the main challenge for any hobby. Seriously, she knows she deserves more attention than these stupid boxes with lights. There are project-related challenges - such as OneSkullADay run, which required me to create one design per day, and within certain conditions. I like to create challenges myself. The modeling itself is easy.

Andrew: No challenges. Because I have worked in this sphere for about 4 years.

2nd Runner-up Endless Love by Alexander

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

Edis: Just go ahead and try it. To create something out of nothing in relatively short period of time brings some present feelings.

Alexander: The best advice for starters is not sticking with one thing. It's best to do 100 crappy models fast than spend a year perfection a single one. Get used to finishing and learning in the process; then, when you become a master, you can afford this mission for perfection.

Andrew: Do not be too lazy to learn, look for new courses, learn something new and sometimes sit at night to know! Then you will succeed. Strive for quality and only quality. Practice, practice and only practice yields better results.

CGTrader: Anything else you would like to share?

Edis: We totally enjoyed participating in the challenge, and the feeling when we saw that we won was just awesome. So we want to thank CGTrader for giving everyone a chance to be a part of it.

Andrew: I think my tutorial blog may help people! I can share it - http://charlytuts.blogspot.com/ And my portfolio will inspire them! Take a look at the Portfolio here - http://artofcharly.artstation.com/