Zenith

The zenith project is the final project that Freestyle students get to do. In this project, they are tasked with creating a work of their choice, so there is a lot of freedom with what students can do. With this freedom, I decided to tackle the challenge of using Blender again.

For context, last year for my explorations project, I decided I wanted to try out this new software called “Blender”. I have heard about this 3D modeling software on social media and was interested in what I can create with it. Blender was also named as a software that was becoming an industry standard, so I knew that I had to see what it was about. However, I didn’t expect how different it would be from my previous experience in art. In order to get adjusted to Blender and learn about its functions, I followed a Youtube tutorial of creating a donut. I then attempted to create a model of a cat, which ended up looking like a very questionable blob. 

For my senior zenith project, I knew I wanted to tackle the challenge of using Blender a second time. This time, I wanted to redeem myself through creating an original character into a 3D model. I have recently been into collecting collectable figures called Popmarts. There are different series within the Popmart brand, with characters following a unique theme and design. However, because collecting these Popmarts can become an expensive hobby, I decided to make my own collectable figures. I wanted to utilize the 3D printer we have at Freestyle by printing my finished 3D models. This project was a risk for me because I was not good at using Blender last year. I was scared of reattempting a Blender project especially since I failed my project last year. Another layer of risk I added was 3D printing my design. I have never used a 3D printer before. I had to figure out how to create my model into a format that can be read by the 3D printer.

Process

This was the my design for my characters. The idea behind them was that I wanted to create something scary, like monsters, into something cute! Although the overall design is inspired by monster like elements, with the inclusion of horns and weapons, I incorporated cute components, like pastel colors and big shiny eyes.

Throughout my process, I struggled with figuring what function I needed to use to arrive at the model I envisioned in my head. Because I am a Beginner Blender user, I had to research the different modifiers and functions online. I often relied on Youtube tutorials that created similar shapes to what I was creating. In my process, I mostly relied on modifying the mesh tool through adjusting vertice points and extruding parts when needed. For more advanced shapes, I moved over to the sculpting setting, although I didn’t use it that often.

Although the 3D modeling process was difficult, the hardest part was turning the 3D model into a form that can be printed. I had issues with merging the separate shapes of the model into one. Despite following a tutorial, it was not working on my file. I improvised and used the tools I was familiar with. I also had to make sure there were no vertices inside and outside of the model that could mess up the printing process. I took a very long time to delete these errors. After that, I had to convert my 3D model into a G-Code. Because the original application I got was not working, I used a different one and followed the instructions to convert my 3D model and add supports. After printing I took off the supports. Although some parts broke, I glued them back together. I painted the model and had my final product. Although this was a new experience for me, I was able to challenge myself and familiarize myself with a new style of art.

Completed Product

Finishing this project and looking back, I was successful in elevating my skills and experiences through experimenting with an unfamiliar medium. Now, I can say that I have experience in 3D printing an original model. I was able to ignite my passion and bring my original characters into life. I am very happy with how my final product turned out. If I could do this project over, I would want to create a different design and experiment with the different modifiers in Blender. I would also like to merge the shapes properly since I ran into issues with that. 

I also presented my project in front of the Freestyle AM class!

Reflection

My take away from this project was not to be afraid to take risks and try again. Although I was uncertain of reattempting to learn blender from last year’s project, I’m glad that I took on the challenge to do so.  By taking the risk and doing something I’ve never done before, I have broadened my knowledge and experience within art creation. I plan to keep experimenting in the future.