RebusArt featuring Onur Bakir

Welcome to our inspiring interview with Onur Bakir, a skilled 3D artist with over a decade of experience in the digital arts. Fueled by a lifelong passion for cars and retro aesthetics, Onur combines technical precision with a unique artistic vision, bringing amazing details and atmosphere to his work. Join us as we dig into Onur’s creative process, his go-to tools, and the challenges he overcomes in merging his love for automotive design with his art.

Introduction.

Please share a bit about yourself and your background as a 3D artist, your mentors, and what inspired you to pursue this career path.

Hello, I'm Onur Bakir, and I’ve been a dedicated 3D artist since 2013, constantly seeking to improve my craft. My fascination with cars began in childhood, and this passion for vehicles, combined with my love for digital design, drove me toward a career in 3D artistry. My goal has always been to bring technical precision and creative flair to my work, merging my two passions in an authentic way.

The Artist Behind the Scenes.

Could you describe your typical creative process when starting a new project, from ideation to completion?

For me, any successful project's foundation is research and synthesis. I gather relevant information, references, and ideas to develop a solid conceptual framework. Once I’ve solidified my approach, the creative process becomes more fluid. Visual guides play a crucial role in helping me stay aligned with the concept I have in mind. Even for original designs, these guides serve as checkpoints, ensuring that the project evolves cohesively from start to finish.

What tools and software do you find indispensable in your workflow, and are there any lesser-known ones you'd recommend exploring?

My primary tools are 3ds Max and Corona Render, with Photoshop for post-production. These programs are essential to my workflow, offering me the versatility and control to execute my vision. Although I haven’t explored many lesser-known tools, I believe each artist should find software that complements their style and workflow, and there’s always room for experimenting with new programs that might help refine your process.

Project Spotlight: Pink Chevrolet

What was the inspiration behind your project 'Pink Chevrolet', and what were the main challenges you encountered during its development?

The inspiration for 'Pink Chevrolet' came from a long-anticipated computer game that resonated with my love for retro aesthetics and cars. I wanted to capture a nostalgic atmosphere combining classic American car culture with a dreamy, retro concept. This project allowed me to develop a unique visual language and atmosphere that echoes the game’s themes and my style.

Creating this specific aesthetic, however, posed its challenges. Balancing the retro look with high-quality renderings that feel fresh and contemporary was one of the trickier aspects. Ensuring every element, from the color palette to the lighting, supported this retro ambiance while remaining technically sharp required much finesse and experimentation.

What software, renderer, and plugins did you use for this project?

For 'Pink Chevrolet', I used 3ds Max and Corona Render for the 3D modeling and rendering, with Photoshop for post-production. These tools allowed me to adjust fine details while ensuring that each aspect aligned with the visual theme I wanted to convey.

Were there any unique techniques or approaches you employed in this project that you haven't used before?

In this project, I experimented with lighting techniques to create a softened, vintage effect. Rather than relying solely on traditional lighting setups, I layered various light sources to achieve a slightly diffused, nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of retro photography. This new approach added a distinct depth and mood that aligned well with the concept.

Reflection and Insights.

Looking back at your journey as a 3D artist, what do you consider to be your most significant milestone or achievement thus far, and why?

While talent plays a role in design, I believe it's the continual learning and refining over time that truly allows an artist to grow. For me, the most significant milestone has been reaching a point where I feel confident in my craft, knowing that each project contributes to my evolution as an artist. Success follows from dedication and consistently pushing one's own boundaries.

What advice would you give to aspiring 3D artists who are just starting their careers or looking to take their skills to the next level?

My advice would be to research extensively, use visual guides to refine your ideas, and work on projects with patience. Each project is a learning opportunity, so don’t rush the process. Cultivate your creativity by synthesizing various inspirations, allowing them to evolve in your unique way.

Finally, what's next on your artistic horizon? Are there any exciting projects or goals you're eager to pursue soon?

I'm captivated by the intersection of architecture and vehicle design. Although it's an unusual blend, I find it intriguing and inspiring. I look forward to exploring more projects that merge these fields in fresh and unexpected ways, appealing to viewers through their harmony and surprising elements.

Thank you for sharing your insights and expertise with us!

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