Hard Work and Constant Zeal: Mr. David Nicolo Lacap Dela Cruz
It has been said before: hard work is the key to success. It is a cliché, but it doesn’t get any simpler than that.
But we all know that the road to success is one that is paved with growing pains, the unpleasant; the complicated. And with an artist such as Mr. David Nicolo Lacap Dela Cruz, the work is never done.
Despite his evident mastery of the craft, Mr. Dela Cruz pushes on knowing that he has to—that it is his duty not only to his talent but also to the industry and ultimately to his family. He says it best:
I know that if I stop, I will be left behind.
Let’s sit down and get to know Mr. David Nicolo Lacap Dela Cruz and find out what makes an artist like him tick.
Xeno Creatives (XC): Given your experience in the industry, what do you think is your edge as a 3D artist?
David Nicolo Lacap Dela Cruz (DNLDC): On top of my regular work, I have been engaged in a lot of freelance jobs for a long time. Most of them require different software in their pipeline. To improve quality of work and to keep up with the changing times, I have no choice but study these software regardless of their complexities.
Learning new things is my passion—always craving for improvement because, admittedly, I still have a lot to learn from this form of art. I believe that my greatest edge among other 3D artists is my insatiable quest for knowledge and burning desire to improve my skills. My desire to explore various software is unstoppable. I know that if I stop, I will be left behind.
XC: Before concentrating on ZBrush as a primary tool of 3D creation, what were the other software that you used?
DNLDC: My first 3D software is Blender, which I learned from my beloved professor back in College – DkCrame. One of the best animators I have met whom I respect and love dearly. He influenced my life so much, not only in terms of animation but in life itself, especially on thriving in this kind of work.
As my network expanded, producing quality art work becomes imperative, so I studied 3D Studio Max. It was then that I realized that these two packages (Blender and 3d Studio Max) would create a great chemistry when blended together. My flexibility to learn and use various software was further enhanced when I taught Maya at Far Eastern University East Asia College in 2012. And when I met my former friend at Funguy Studio, ZBrush was introduced to me. He taught and encouraged me to use this because it is faster and more inclined to aesthetics compared to other software. I started using it since because of its usefulness as a tool, especially in sculpting.
XC: What made you turn to ZBrush? What about it appealed to you?
DNLDC: Working with topology while doing sculpt of your mesh at the same time are two of the most common dilemmas of 3d artists encountered before. However, ZBrush marvelously resolved it by separating those two. You can sculpt your mesh and be more creative and then worry about the other technical stuff, such as retopology, later and vice versa.
To date, I regard ZBrush as one of the most suitable software for traditional and digital sculptors. As Pixologic continues to input great features that would make our life easy, ZBrush will never leave the limelight of legendary tools in this form of art.
XC: What was your most exciting project to date?
DNLDC: I cannot really disclose the client but I was honored to be part of some of the projects for Thor, Ragnarok, and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. I was able to create armors, weapons, and characters for those titles. Right now, I am working with an unannounced project for PS4 as a character and prop artist. I hope people will like it.
XC: So far, what were the challenges that you had encountered working in the 3D industry?
DNLDC: Timing and meeting all the deadlines are essential to all 3D artists. On top of these, I still need to tackle my responsibilities to my wife and son. Thus, balancing my time with my family and work is my greatest challenge. Despite the entire hullabaloo, I thank God for having blessed me with a very supportive wife and a son who continually inspire and propel me to work on all tasks handed to my plate.
XC: Among your many AWESOME concepts, what stands out for you? Do you have favorites?
DNLDC: My favorite piece was the one that I did for my wife, Rose—I turned her into a 3D character. But the one that stands out is the Gladiator Hulk that I did for “Thor: Ragnarok”.
XC: What other concepts do you want to create through ZBrush?
DNLDC: With our society’s deteriorating values, I would like to focus on things that people do not usually talk about. Though unpopular, it is relevant and important, which may stir up the moral, intellectual, mental, and spiritual beliefs and standards of the people.
XC: What advice can you give to aspiring artists?
DNLDC: To all young ones who are still sowing seeds in their chosen career, you must take your time. Seek inspiration from the right people. It is okay to progress slowly as long as you do not stop. Consistent practice is the key to mastery—do not miss a day without sharpening your artistic talent.
When you find your true calling, embrace it and do well. Work hard and smarter—find ways to achieve your dream, but always be cautious because not all people are sincere and not all paths are lighted.
Lastly, always be humble. Attitude is the key to all things. Remember that the deepest form of humility is having a trainable spirit. It is not enough to have great skills, because having the right attitude is the key to your success.
These are really inspiring words Mr. David Nicolo Lacap Dela Cruz. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
Want to see more of Mr. Dela Cruz’s works? Click here!
