Interview with Igor Puškarič: Zbrush is the ultimate pleasure!

Don't you just love meeting people that can inspire you through their own strong character and clear life goals? Well, if you don't, they should still provide a really needed kick in the butt! We're offering a great way to get your week started with some inspiration from 3D modeling enthusiast Igor Puškarič!

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got into the 3D industry?

Hello,my name is Igor Puškarič, I come from Slavonski Brod, Croatia. I was always into art and creating my own worlds, objects, creatures and ideas. I was greatly motivated by video games and movies during my childhood. My first step into 3D was when I encountered Zbrush software, and the appearance of internet in my life. Since I wasn’t a good illustrator, Zbrush enabled me to share my ideas more easily and openly to everyone with a powerful impact. I just started doing my stuff for the love of it, and I got recognized by Taitale studios, who adopted me into their video game project Novus Aeterno and taught me almost everything I know now in the process. This was an important stepping stone in my life. Before that opportunity I had the spirit, but I didn't know the tools. So I am always immensely grateful to those guys and especially my mentor Mohamed Rotab!

What are the most important characteristics to become a recognized artist according to you?

I do not see myself as a recognized artist yet, but my best guess it is probably a combination of these following matters: be yourself, do your networking right, love what you do and project your passion into the work you produce. Always keep learning, be careful choosing your friends and never give up.

What kind of models are the most attractive to you?

I always prefer good sci-fi themed creation with an intriguing and original design language, but it is not a rule set in stone, sometimes the simplest and seemingly boring model can tell an amazing story if done right.

What tool would you consider indispensable for your work?

My brain! All software is relative in terms of price, ability and consistency. For low poly modeling I love 3ds Max, but blender is more and more amazing with every update and it is free. I also don’t see myself working without Photoshop, and nDo is an amazing tool as well. For pure artistic expression though, Zbrush is the ultimate pleasure.

What is the hardest thing in modeler’s life?

Beyond all doubt, starting up and learning the basics. Once you know the mind flow and theory through action, you can jump through software, because generally speaking, the basic principles remain the same, only the button places change. In terms of living and personal life, the long working hours may affect your social life, although if you plan your time and have a good vision, everything should be just fine!

What/who are your influences in life?

Pretty much every figure that never quits and has a powerful vision for their dreams. In terms of strictly 3D aspect, I admire Toni Bratičevič and Vitaly Bulgarov, among many others. I also follow many painters and concept artists.

How do you take a break from work? What are your hobbies?

I made my hobby my work, the difference is that a project demands to conform the design to subject matter, and on my personal stuff I am as free as a bird and have no limitations. I love to play Starcraft 2, watch awesome movies and socialize with my family and friends. Morning jogging and some physical workout is also something i should get back to soon.

Are there any future projects you can tell us about?

I am now in FPX studio, working on a cool video game project I can’t speak of at this time. I also plan to do more personal stuff along the way, whenever free time allows it.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Hopefully alive. And while living, enjoying more free time and having fun, creating cool stuff with a bunch of crazy, awesome and talented people.