Rafael Mustaine: On Learning by Doing
But what’s really noteworthy of Mr. Mustaine’s digital discipline is that he had to learn all the technology on his own–nope, no YouTube tutorials involved. And it was quite a challenge for him as he lived in a country wherein there is little regard for the discipline.
So through this short feature, let’s get to know how Mr. Rafael Mustaine went on to become a master of ZBrush through mere intuition and talent.
Xeno Creatives (XC): ZBrush technology brought a lot to the industry. What processes did you have to learn to be skilled in it?
Rafael Mustaine (RM): I have always used 3Ds Max for modelling. When ZBrush was released, I started studying it on my own. I was messing around with it without the benefit of YouTube videos and tutorials. As the years passed, the internet gained strength and I was meeting artists that helped me a lot. In fact we have to be curious so it is possible to learn much more.
XC: As a dedicated artist how did ZBrush help you further your art?
RM: Several Brazilian artists inspired me to study not only ZBrush, but everything that was part of the computer graphics industry. I’ve always been self-taught in everything in my life. However, today, I recognize that we have several amazing content on the internet for free.
XC: Was your craft really a passion to begin with, a hobby, or a mere job?
RM: I’ve always been involved with the arts; I have been drawing since I was a child. When I matured, I found myself in 3D. Today, I work with the collectibles industry and am passionate about what I do. I believe this is the most important in all professions to achieve passionate success.
XC: Given your experience in the industry, what do you think is your edge as a 3D artist?
RM: I do not know if it is an advantage but with the evolution of technology, the digital artist can serve diverse companies in varied branches of disciplines. You can work with Print 3D, games, movie theaters and even medicine if you prefer hehehe. Fantastic! Technology had opened up a lot more options for digital artists.
XC: Whom do you do you consider your influence(s)?
RM: My biggest influence is the geek culture. I always liked games, comics, movies and that’s what got me here today.
XC: So far, what were the challenges that you had encountered working in the 3D industry?
RM: The biggest challenge was to build a solid career, if you really opt to become a digital artist for the industry. In the country in which I live in, it is a great challenge to make art as a livelihood, I have encountered a lot of difficulties for this. But with great strength and dedication little by little I was building my artistic profile and consequently was attracting companies within the industry. I am slowly solidifying my profile and I believe one day, who knows, I might just become a Michelangelo hehehehehe.
XC: What is your most exciting project to date?
RM: It is difficult to choose because there are several, but there is always one that has marked you. For me the most exciting thing was working with the “Star Wars” line up for Iron Studios. I’m such a fan; being able to sculpt the troopers and Vader was exciting.
XC: Do you have any advice to aspiring artists?
RM: Yes, study and enjoy the best that the internet can offer. If you are inspired by artists who are in the industry, you will have the right line to follow. Do not give up on dreams, always try to practice and most importantly have passion for what you do so success will be right.
Want to see more of Mr. Rafael Mustaine’s works? Click here!
It would be an understatement to say that Mr. Rafael Mustaine is an impressive artist. Yes, all you have to do is look at the details of each of his work, the skin, the concept, the overall appeal of his pieces inspire wonder.