Grasshopper 3D model in Maya 2009

This is the Grasshopper I've modeled in Maya 2009 as part of the "3D Design Theory 1: Planning and concept development" class at Billy Blue. To be honest, this is my first digital modeling project, but I am very happy with the result. I used to do ceramics in High School and I noticed that I had quite the talent for it, but I couldn't figure out how I would make a profession out of it.

Maybe this is the answer...pixel-clay of 3D modeling...

Semester 3: "3D Design Theory 1: Planning and concept development" with Jonathan Gunawan

March: Inspirations & Observations

Welcome to the March issue of Inspirations & Observations. This is my monthly reflection on the 5 things this month that inspired me, and 5 things that were cheesy, ineffective or just plain boring.

Inspirations

1. Hand-rendering with pen & ink. Oooh, we did an assignment of rendering fur texture with pen & ink, and it was the most calming activity. Can't post the result yet though, the teacher still has it. But here is a sample from a Flickr user hanssolo.
   
   
   
2. Paper craft. I am discovering a whole world of these crafty designy things I can get into. I already love making things by hand, so it's perfect! Here is my current idol, Yulia Brodskaya.
   
   
   
3. And this month I discovered scrapbooking. I've heard the term before, but I didn't know what it was. Check out Shappy Pricess, really great "digital scrapbook" kits.
   
   
   
4. "The Artist's Way" book by Julia Cameron. It's about awaking the artist within, getting in touch with our innate creativity. I feel the changes happening already.
   
   
   
5. "How to Get Ideas" book by Jack Foster. First part of the book describes the mindset we need to have to attract more ideas. Second part is a step-by-step manual for getting winning ideas. It's interesting that "The Artist's Way" and "How to Get Ideas" frequently give the same advice. It's all connected, describing the same reality from different angles.
   
   
   

Observations

1. Using "click here and here and..." as anchor link text. It would be a lot more useful, if the link stated exactly what I'll find after clicking it. For example "learn about the psychological deviations of underwater worms." Ok, now I know exactly what's behind the anchor-text door.
   
   
   
2. Redesign of Hotmail interface leaves me asking "Where is the send button?!!!"
   
   
   
3. Sydney rail tickets, made of paper. First, I can only buy a ticket for today, it expires at the end of the day. Second, it's a paper ticket that cannot be re-used. Third, I have to put it through machine and wait for it to come out. Fourth, I can only buy one ticket at a time, no buddy rides. Need I go on? Really slows down the morning rush-hour commute.
   
   
   
4. Mini Dell ad. Trying to look like the currently popular floral style, but doesn't make it.
   
   
   
5. All respect to SitePoint, but no discrimination here. This ad was part of the newsletter I received, and I think it's feels like it was actually made by a developer. Literal metaphors for "slow" and "fast"...where is the zesty idea?
   
   

Previous months

• February: Observations & Inspirations
• January: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Dimensions debate

We watched these two videos in class, and then we were invited to have a discussion on whether we understand the concepts, agree or disagree. The teacher also talked about a theory proposed by a Ph.D research, that Fairies exist in the fourth dimension, and that's why we only see them for split moments. There is food for thought...

New Years resolutions

Reflecting on everyday experiences is a big part of being a designer, or so my teachers tell me. As for my opinion, it's an absolutely crucial part of being a designer! It's also what makes it fun.

After studying for just one semester I am already noticing big changes in the way I perceive the world around me. When going to the movies, playing video games and traveling, I am no longer a passive observer, but an active participator. The font faces speak to me about their purpose (or lack of it), and a beautiful kaleidoscope of colors and textures inspires unborn designs to come into shape.

I think observation and self reflection is so important, that I am even making a New Years resolution to blog every month about 5 things that inspired me and I think worked well, and 5 things that I see as needing improvement.

So here are my resolutions:

1. Blog monthly about "the good, the bad and the ugly" of the world around
2. Draw!!! It's so important for a designer to have solid hand-rendering skills. Plus, as I said in my first ever post, it develops the right side of the brain
3. Wear colorful clothes; put that color theory knowledge into practice
   
4. Eat a serving of spirulina at least every other day
5. Master Textpattern

Happy Holidays!

courtesy of yandex.com