Artist Q&A - Bhushan Jagtap
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in 3D modeling, and how did you get your start in this field?
- My passion for art began in childhood with clay modeling and watercolor painting. The inspiration to pursue 3D modeling came from watching 90s cartoons, animated films, and Hollywood movies filled with special effects. Once I discovered the field, I immediately became interested. My first job was as a trainee at a small startup, where I worked on architectural 3D modeling.
2. What are some of the most challenging projects you've worked on, and how did you overcome those challenges?
- The most challenging project for me was my first VFX project, "The Fate of the Furious" in 2017, which marked my transition from CG to VFX. Subsequent projects also presented significant challenges. I believe that having an excellent team working together towards a common goal enables us to overcome any challenge.
3. How do you approach the creative process when starting a new project, and what tools or techniques do you use to stay organized?
- The creative process starts with gathering information about the project, such as reference materials, sketches, concepts, photographs, or real-life objects. This helps understand the project scope and identify potential challenges. To stay organized, I use a simple folder structure to manage all project information and files.
4. What software programs are you proficient in, and how have you developed your skills in these programs over time?
- I have been using Maya and ZBrush for a long time. These software programs are regularly updated, enhancing their tools and features, which helps accelerate the modeling process. While these are my preferred tools, I also have experience with several other software programs.
5. What are your favorite or most successful projects?
- Choosing a favorite project is difficult, but notable ones include "Dune 2021" from the VFX department and "The Amazing Maurice" (2022) from feature animation. For "Dune," I was involved from the start, creating numerous hero environment/spacecraft assets based on the concept work. Working under VFX leader Paul Lambert on an Oscar-winning project like "Dune" is a highlight of my career.
6. How do you stay up to date with new tech?
- I use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, which are excellent sources for information and inspiration. I follow 3D artists, studios, and industry professionals to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques. I also participate in online communities and forums where professionals share their work and discuss industry trends.
7. How do you approach collaborative work?
- Throughout my career, I have had the privilege to collaborate with many artists. As a 3D modeler, my responsibilities included scheduling asset timelines and working closely with other artists and designers, such as those in texturing and rigging, to ensure the models met the project's requirements.
8. How do you balance creativity with practicality when working on a project?
- Balancing creativity with practicality involves several considerations, such as the project's purpose—whether it's for VFX, video games, product design, or architectural visualization—which influences the level of detail and aesthetic. Timeline and budget also dictate the scope and detail needed. Using reference materials and maintaining a clear project plan help ensure a balance between meeting practical needs and creative expression.
9. How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback, and what strategies do you use to improve your work?
- Constructive criticism is vital for growth. I approach feedback with an open mind, listening carefully to understand the perspective and reasons behind it. I ask questions for clarity, take notes, and prioritize the feedback to focus on making the most impactful changes. It's important not to take feedback personally but rather see it as an opportunity to enhance the work.
10. How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively when working on multiple projects simultaneously?
- I create a to-do list and break down tasks for each project, focusing first on smaller tasks that can be completed quickly. Setting realistic deadlines helps keep me accountable. Regular communication with clients and artists ensures expectations are met. If I have too many projects, I consider letting go of new ones.
11. What are your strengths as a 3D artist?
- With years of experience in the 3D field, my strengths include proficiency with Maya and ZBrush, a keen eye for character and environment modeling, and meticulous attention to detail. I manage projects effectively, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. At rileyb3d.com, I aim to create realistic and engaging 3D models for a range of applications, from VFX to virtual reality.
12. What are your long-term career goals, and how do you see yourself growing and developing as a 3D artist in the future?
- My long-term goal is to start my own 3D modeling business. Although I am still honing my skills in the field, I am making progress and believe I will achieve proficiency in the near future.
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in 3D modeling, and how did you get your start in this field?
- My passion for art began in childhood with clay modeling and watercolor painting. The inspiration to pursue 3D modeling came from watching 90s cartoons, animated films, and Hollywood movies filled with special effects. Once I discovered the field, I immediately became interested. My first job was as a trainee at a small startup, where I worked on architectural 3D modeling.
2. What are some of the most challenging projects you've worked on, and how did you overcome those challenges?
- The most challenging project for me was my first VFX project, "The Fate of the Furious" in 2017, which marked my transition from CG to VFX. Subsequent projects also presented significant challenges. I believe that having an excellent team working together towards a common goal enables us to overcome any challenge.
3. How do you approach the creative process when starting a new project, and what tools or techniques do you use to stay organized?
- The creative process starts with gathering information about the project, such as reference materials, sketches, concepts, photographs, or real-life objects. This helps understand the project scope and identify potential challenges. To stay organized, I use a simple folder structure to manage all project information and files.
4. What software programs are you proficient in, and how have you developed your skills in these programs over time?
- I have been using Maya and ZBrush for a long time. These software programs are regularly updated, enhancing their tools and features, which helps accelerate the modeling process. While these are my preferred tools, I also have experience with several other software programs.
5. What are your favorite or most successful projects?
- Choosing a favorite project is difficult, but notable ones include "Dune 2021" from the VFX department and "The Amazing Maurice" (2022) from feature animation. For "Dune," I was involved from the start, creating numerous hero environment/spacecraft assets based on the concept work. Working under VFX leader Paul Lambert on an Oscar-winning project like "Dune" is a highlight of my career.
6. How do you stay up to date with new tech?
- I use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, which are excellent sources for information and inspiration. I follow 3D artists, studios, and industry professionals to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques. I also participate in online communities and forums where professionals share their work and discuss industry trends.
7. How do you approach collaborative work?
- Throughout my career, I have had the privilege to collaborate with many artists. As a 3D modeler, my responsibilities included scheduling asset timelines and working closely with other artists and designers, such as those in texturing and rigging, to ensure the models met the project's requirements.
8. How do you balance creativity with practicality when working on a project?
- Balancing creativity with practicality involves several considerations, such as the project's purpose—whether it's for VFX, video games, product design, or architectural visualization—which influences the level of detail and aesthetic. Timeline and budget also dictate the scope and detail needed. Using reference materials and maintaining a clear project plan help ensure a balance between meeting practical needs and creative expression.
9. How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback, and what strategies do you use to improve your work?
- Constructive criticism is vital for growth. I approach feedback with an open mind, listening carefully to understand the perspective and reasons behind it. I ask questions for clarity, take notes, and prioritize the feedback to focus on making the most impactful changes. It's important not to take feedback personally but rather see it as an opportunity to enhance the work.
10. How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively when working on multiple projects simultaneously?
- I create a to-do list and break down tasks for each project, focusing first on smaller tasks that can be completed quickly. Setting realistic deadlines helps keep me accountable. Regular communication with clients and artists ensures expectations are met. If I have too many projects, I consider letting go of new ones.
11. What are your strengths as a 3D artist?
- With years of experience in the 3D field, my strengths include proficiency with Maya and ZBrush, a keen eye for character and environment modeling, and meticulous attention to detail. I manage projects effectively, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget. At rileyb3d.com, I aim to create realistic and engaging 3D models for a range of applications, from VFX to virtual reality.
12. What are your long-term career goals, and how do you see yourself growing and developing as a 3D artist in the future?
- My long-term goal is to start my own 3D modeling business. Although I am still honing my skills in the field, I am making progress and believe I will achieve proficiency in the near future.
