On Becoming Better and Pushing Further: The Art of Mr. Chris Liu
Passion is something that Mr. Chris Liu does not run low on.
A self-confessed dog person, he had taken pleasure on working on his rendition of Samurai Shiba and a flying Corgi. But the ultimate takeaway from these projects, as the artist confesses, is that he had learned various techniques in creating concepts in ZBrush. But yeah, “…it’s quite pleasure for a dog person like me to spend hundreds of hours staring at dogs.” Mr. Liu admits.
Moreover, he possesses the versatility that every aspiring artist should possess. He has a distinct style and an undeniable attention to detail–things we genuinely admire. But even more admirable is his constant effort to become more–to be a better artist.
We sure are glad to have had this opportunity of an interview with Mr. Chris Liu. The interview may be short, but the things that Mr. Liu had said sure does bear substance, and we honestly believe, reading through this already bettered our perspective not only on art, but how we should opt to pursue our passions.
Xeno Creatives (XC): ZBrush technology innovated the 3D industry. What processes did you have to learn to be skilled at it?
Chris Liu (CL): I learned it like everyone else: from the Pixologic Zclassroom training courses. It’s quite friendly for both beginner and veteran.
At first I spent weeks watching complete tutorials to get used to ZBrush. But I finally started to get skilled at it after practicing some sculpting work.
XC: As a dedicated artist, did ZBrush help you further your art?
CL: ZBrush does help a lot in modeling process, especially when I want to enjoy the fun of sculpting without considering topology or others.
(Although in the end still have to face it.)
I can also increase or decrease the volume of the sculpture anytime without worrying about the cost of clay.
XC: What made you decide to focus on ZBrush as a medium for 3D art creation? Are you still planning on venturing into other software?
CL: Because I got some friends they are really good at it. Even now, I still learn a lot from them.
I’m working on learning Marvelous Designer recently. It’s quite easy to use and I think it’s a good way to make up for the shortcomings of ZBrush.
XC: Do you have to be good in human anatomy when working with ZBrush?
CL: Anatomy always help while working on creature models. It makes your work more persuasive and makes the details better. You will never regret spending your time in anatomy.
XC: Do you see yourself working in the movie and television industry?
CL: I used to do my personal works based on my interests. But I will be starting to work in the game industry soon.
XC: Was your craft really a passion to begin with, a hobby, or just a mere job?
CL: It’s a hobby with passion. I mean, there are too many troublesome processes during a 3D projects. Passion does help you to insist on it, and keep going.
XC: We found your works over at ArtStation to be exciting and really promising. We gather it took a great deal of discipline to have created the works that you came up with. But do you have favorites? What made them your favorites?
CL: My favorite work is recent project “Samurai Shiba”. Not only because it’s my latest artwork, but also I’ve tried some new methods just learned on it during this project.
Moreover, it’s quite pleasure for a dog person like me to spend hundreds of hours staring at dogs.
XC: Whom do you consider your influences? Why do you look up to them?
CL: The one who influenced me most is Creature Designer/Animal Anatomist Terryl Whitlatch. Her books are incredible works of scientific anatomy and it gels well with fantasy and SF creatures.
It’s really impressive, I’ve never seen such a craft like that before. Her works are also very helpful to anyone who is interested in animal sculpting, modeling and rigging.
XC: What other pieces do you still want to create?
CL: Because my favorite game “Monster Hunter: World” is going to be released recently, I’m working on its fan art these days. That’ll be my first Dragon sculpture.
XC: Do you also see yourself being immersed fully in Game Character Design?
CL: Of course! My dream is to be killed by a monster I designed.
XC: If you weren’t a 3D artist today, what do you think you’d be working as?
CL: I would like to plant vegetables and fruits in a beautiful countryside and take dogs for a walk every day.
XC: What advice can you give individuals wanting to enter the industry?
CL: Be interested in learning new things and do not give up. Sometimes the most satisfying fulfillment comes from the most painful project.
Thank you very much Mr. Chris Liu! we wish you only the best in your future projects!
Want to see more of Mr. Liu’s works? Click here!
