Maya, Photoshop, Arnold Renderer
Basil’s desk was one of my first modeling projects. I had just finished a story writing class and wanted to create the environment of one of my characters, Basil. I used only Autodesk Maya and Adobe Photoshop to complete the project. This is my process from concept to final render.
I used aesthetics of the 1800s French countryside combined with modern influences to create my own fantasy realm. Basil is an energetic 20-something who is headstrong and confident. I wanted to make sure her character traits were reflected throughout the environment.
The first step in the process was to create a basic block out based upon my concept art. I wanted the camera angle to reflect the scene as if the viewer was looking at the desk as Basil. I also wanted to have all the objects organized so they fit together within the scene and still allow them to stand out.
I began modeling the environment further in Autodesk Maya. The modeling style I chose was a mix of stylization and realism. Since the environment included handmade items, I paid close attention to detail so that all the items fit together and matched the overall aesthetic of Basil’s world. I made sure that all of the topology of each object was clean and made up of quads using a box-modeling workflow.
The texturing process allowed me to bring Basil’s personality into the environment further. Using my own handwriting within her journal as well the labels, helped bring a more “human” aspect into an otherwise computer-generated piece. I painted the marigold painting in my own sketchbook and imported it into the scene to give it a personal touch.
For the lighting, I wanted the environment to feel warm and welcoming. I referenced early morning light and using Arnold Renderer, I incorporated it into the scene. I also changed the camera angle to follow my idea that Basil is the one viewing the desk. I wanted the viewer to find something new each time they looked at it.
