Welcome to today’s interview with Paul Von Bargen, one of the most talented and creative 3D miniature sculptors in my opinion in the alternative heresy community. I have been following Paul’s work on Instagram for a while now and have always been in awe of his incredible attention to detail and ability to bring his vision to life through his sculpts. Not only as a huge fan of Paul’s work and a grateful Licensed seller of his amazingwork, I am thrilled to have this opportunity to chat with him and learn more about his inspiration, creative process, and experiences in modelling. So without further ado, let’s jump right into the interview and discover what makes Paul one of the greatest 3D miniature sculptors of our time.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in art and modeling?
I graduated in 2007 from the University of Art and Design in Offenbach am Main with a degree in illustration. Before that i was studying classic painting for two semesters.
Since then i have been working as a freelance illustrator, graphic designer and since 2010, art director then senior art director in a web development company where i am responsible for the UX/UI & art direction of customer web-based projects as well as smaller motion graphic projects. Privately i am of course sketching and drawing a lot (by hand on paper). Apart from one course in Maya in 2003 i never worked in 3d programs but did a lot of physical modeling and sculpting with different putties, clays, etc. During the first pandemic, my wife bought me a 3d printer as a birthday present and soon i started to learn Blender in order to alter existing models but found it so much fun, that i kept on learning until i was doing my own models.
How would you describe your artistic style?
I wouldn´t say that i am that expierienced to already having established a real style in 3D modeling i fear.
What inspired you to pursue 3D modeling?
I started out wanting to edit existing 3D models for my own hobby printing but soon had so much fun learning Blender and seeing the results that i kept going.
What software do you use to create your 3D models?
Blender
How do you come up with ideas for your 3D designs?
I am always inspired by the huge community of hobbyist around the web. My mind is constantly working on new ideas wich mostly never come to pass i fear. Hobby books always make my go wild with plans for myself but, as i said, i sketch out a lot but can´t find teh time to build them all.
Can you walk us through your typical design process?
Lots of sketching on paper, looking up reference material, more sketching…
Then it is nothing special, blocking out a first bulk, test-printing, detailing, test-printing, finetuning.
How long does it typically take you to create a 3D model?
Between half a day and three weeks…:)
How do you stay current with new technologies and techniques in 3D modeling?
I don´t…this is a big hobby for me so i am very niched in my works and just try to learn still. At times i discover new stuff through some youtube-channels wich i follow and try them out but most stuff is far beyond my understanding (yet).
Can you describe a particularly challenging project you’ve worked on and how you overcame any obstacles?
I had a hard time getting into sculpting thus limiting myself alot, but i tricked myself with just playing with the surface for a pure fun fun doesn´t need to be good project. There i learned enough to be confident and actually start larning that seriously.
What do you think sets your 3D modeling apart from others in the field?
Nothing technically really, i think i just have a godd feeling for proportions and moods, probably due to my long expierience as a designer…
How do you handle feedback and revisions on your designs?
Not being a real professional, i don´t have direct client feedback, only comments from users.
Those i try to think about very openly. If they find real errors i fix them, if they suggest changes i at least think about it.
Can you talk about a project you’re particularly proud of and why?
Stated above, i was playing around with sculpting in Blender and am very proud of a Cthuluesque statue i sculpted for personal use. It just makes me proud because i learned so much and really found the pure fun of the medium with it after many points where i just wanted to delete all the crap i made…
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing 3D modeling in the future?
Not professional enough to answer that question with any degree of credibillity.
Can you tell us about a project you’ve worked on that required a high level of attention to detail?
Indeed. Last summer i did a large one (for me) the chubbafragger terminator armor, wich i just happened and i was quickly overwhelmed by the amount of stuff i had to consider in order to make it work both as a model when putting together and still looking good as well as giving people a wide range of building options. I never did so many test-prints before just to make a single tiny part fit.
How do you use social media like Instagram to promote your 3D modeling work?
Very basic. I use Instagram and facebook groups to tell followers about new stuff i did.
How do you decide which projects to take on?
As i don´t do commissions i only work on stuff i find fun and only when i find the time next to work and family life.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in 3D modeling?
Start small, use Youtube – there are countless free programms and tutorials. look for solutions to every problem there will be people explaining stuff and you will learn from project to project. Don´t be overwhelmed by the immense range of 3D possibillities, just start out in ony corner and expand to where you are working.
How do you approach creating realistic or lifelike models?
Use a lot of reference and sketch that stuff out from real life. Never hesitate using existing models from cgitrader and such. Both as a reference and starting point.
Can you talk about a project you’ve worked on that required collaboration with other designers or professionals?
Haven´t done any yet.
How do you continue to learn and grow as a 3D modeler?
I just keep on discovering results i want to get and try to learn how to get there specifically (and as fast and smart as possible). I try not to shy away from challenges but chopped down into small pieces. Just keep being interested and enthusiastic about other peoples work and not be intimidated by quality but inspired.
Id like to thank Paul so much for taking the time to speak with us and share his incredible talent and expertise into his 3D miniature designs. It’s been a true pleasure to learn about your process and the amazing work you do. Your attention to detail and passion for design are truly inspiring. I’m sure our readers will enjoy learning more about your background and your incredible creations.
I would like to express my gratitude for this opportunity and I will definitely reach out again in the future to learn more about your process and how you got started in the world of illustration. Your passion and creativity continue to amaze us, and I can’t wait to see what you come up with next. Thank you again for your time and insight!”
