Xeno Creatives Artist Spotlight: Mod Ratchata
When it comes to creating character concepts that exude emotion and uniqueness in style and sensibility, Mr. Mod Ratchata simply cannot be overlooked. He has mastered a technique that gives his works a notable brand that no other digital artist can emulate.
Let’s get to know Mr. Mod Ratchata in this short interview and find out what makes him tick and what his motivations were in entering the digital art creation space.
Xeno Creatives (XC): We understand that with just about any craft, passion takes precedence. In your case, how did it start becoming a passion? Would we be right in assuming that you consider it a “calling” as a lot of your contemporaries do?
Mod Ratchata (MR): My journey into the world of 3D art started when I was a kid; I was always fascinated by video games and animated movies.
My very first drawing experience is trying to copy interpretations of Megaman and Final Fantasy characters.
I have drawn them on every single text book that I had, especially for my math and science subjects. I have always dreamt of creating such characters. I truly believe that it is my calling to create character concepts.
XC: What was it that got you interested in 3D art? Did you ever plan on taking it seriously initially?
MR: I’ve been diligently working on improving my character drawing skills. Back in the day, there was no YouTube and other readily available sources were too expensive for learning in Thailand. I had to be self-taught while also striving to maintain good grades in school, so my parents wouldn’t blame me for spending most of my time drawing instead of studying. To be honest I really do not know what I was supposed do for a living during that time, all I know is only the arts are an alternative kind of work.
I finally made myself a seat for Graphic design in university and got a referral from my best friend named Sopon to be an intern as a texture artist. That was where we both started to learn 3D software.
XC: Now that you’re an active part of the industry, would you say you have figured your place in it?
MR: I prefer to think that I am in a flexible position in the industry–more like a generalist but one who does not touch any animation processes. It would be perfect if I can support the whole character development including CFX.
XC: What does your pipeline usually look like in a typical production? What are the common challenges a 3D artist like you encounters in a project?
MR: The pipeline is pretty much the same for every character creation project:
Design > Model > Surface > Rig
There will be a grooming and + extra added along the workflow.
The hardest part is to reach the client’s expectations along with perfect communication with the team.
XC: What would you consider your biggest or most exciting project to date? Could you tell us a little bit about it?
MR: Ohh I really can’t pick one since I have every project tremendously enjoyable. However, there is a game project that I really can’t forget and that is being an asset creator for the Final Fantasy VII remake.
As I mentioned earlier, I was inspired by Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. It was like a dream come true after being a part of it.
XC: We are impressed with your works on ArtStation. While you drew on existing characters, your concepts are indicative of original style. Which among your works are you most proud of and why?
MR: I would pick Kara as my proudest one not necessarily because of the quality of but because of the story behind it.
Years ago, I attempted to create concept art for my own games, but I couldn’t bring my ideas to life because my skills weren’t up to par. With Kara, I’ve dedicated considerable time to learn and enhance both 3D and 2D processing simultaneously.
XC: If you were to market yourself, what would you highlight as your edge?
MR: I would say I’m flexible and open-minded.
XC: How do you think digital art-generating AI technology will impact digital artists and the 3D art industry in the long run? Is it a helpful tool or an insidious threat to the future of your craft?
MR: I will have 100% impact to the industry, I really can’t predict what’s going to happen in the long run though. Anyway, doing the art is a process that I really enjoy. Maybe one day AI will also be a big part of the process.
XC: What is your message for your fellow digital artists and those aspiring to be a part of the industry in these challenging times?
MR: As a small part of the overall industry landscape, I really can’t offer newcomers any more specific advice than to respect others, learn from the best, pay attention to the process, and enjoy what you do.
Mr. Mod Ratchata has a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic design and KMITL. He has been working in the digital art creation industry for a solid 7 years and is currently affiliated with M2Animation.
You can visit his ArtStation and Facebook accounts to see more of Mr. Mod Ratchata’s amazing works.
