Ever since I joined eurotuner I've wanted to include artwork from you guys in the mag. I was hoping a few would dribble in to us and I could introduce them that way. However, nothing's appeared and it occurred to me that nobody actually knows what I'm looking for. So, I thought I'd kick things off by highlighting the work of one individual and see if we could inspire you to follow suit.
Now please don't assume we're only looking for artwork of the standard set here. This guy makes a living at it and if you're capable of such work, we'd gladly accept it, but it doesn't have to be so slick. Send us whatever you've got - whether it's computer-generated or drawn with good ol' pencils and Crayola.
Vizualtech
In the meantime, let's take a look at the work of Vizualtech. Founded in 1999 by Swede Bo Zolland, its main business is the production of 3D racing and custom automotive design work. He also produces 3D sales and marketing images, as well as animations for sales or instructional purposes. Other output from Vizualtech includes 3D logos, retro boat and industrial design, technical manuals and cutaway or ghosted pictures.
According to Bo, he has no employees but uses subcontractors to help him. And if you think this is a young man's occupation, our Swedish friend is 54 but has been a racing car fan since an early age, drawing cars and boats for as long as he can remember. The 3D element was only introduced three years ago but it's added "a whole new dimension for my clients," Bo told us.
Among his services, Bo is able to create an accurate virtual model before you start the real deal, which can allow you to test ideas, color schemes, different wheels, etc.
The typical design process goes like this: he discusses the concept with the client, determining the main features and style. He then does as many 2D illustrations as needed before moving on to 3D when he builds the virtual model. Once complete, it's reviewed with the client and surfaces such as materials, decals, colors and so on are added. At this point he can render the model into different scenes, change the lighting, viewing angles, etc.
For those budding illustrators who'd like to follow in Bo's footsteps, he uses 3ds Max and Rhino as 3D software. He also employs Corel Draw, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe FrameMaker and others. That's a lot of expensive software, and you know his computer has some processing power, right! But the investment is worthwhile when you can count the following as customers: Mopar USA, FAT Technologies, Michael Kelly Guitars, Delta Street Rods, MH Racing, Hunchback Racing, Southtownstreet and Street Extreme magazine.
These kind of professional design and illustration services are an important step in the development of any involved automotive project. Design renderings allow the builder to thoroughly review the overall design prior to tools or molds being made, parts purchased and colors chosen. It gives the opportunity to view the project from different angles and with different modifications prior to starting. It also allows alterations to be made at the computer stage, rather than in the workshop.
Incorporating this type of illustrated portfolio into your project can indicate a level of professionalism and dedication that may make the difference when generating interest from potential project sponsors and magazine editors. However, it's not cheap and requires commitment and a strong concept from the very beginning.
So if you're looking for expert 3D illustrations, contact Vizualtech at the address below. But if you want to give it a try yourself, email your own efforts to eurotuner@primedia.com - you can also mail them to our usual postal address. We'll print your illustrations in the magazine and create a special web page as well.