Monday Night Challenge: *Monsters & Villains* • 09-22-03 to 10-06-03

[Mahlikus The Black]

I wanted to thank all the participants of the MNC-The Unofficial ZMascot (http://www.pixolator.com/zbc-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=1&t=012292):

Frenchy Pilou, ed_the_atom, manou, Juandel, Extra Dimensional, vincentducos, andreseloy, noba,
kokoro, Northstarr, Ron Harris, and Stonecutter.

Excellent entries everyone!

------

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064412960lsz.jpg


Thats right...we are kicking off the horror early to prepare you for Halloween.

Here are the parameters


:b3:Add all kinds of props (made in ZBrush of course) but really add em on.
Ear rings, armor, weapons, clothing...everything. These monsters are going to be tough.

:b3:This can either be a completed image
with lighting, best rendering and background or or just the modeling.

:b3:As it says, Monsters or Villians..old or fictional. Maybe even an evil self portrait...go nuts!

:b3:Can use any and all native zbrush
tools for both 2D and 3D. Zscripts like Zsketcher are acceptable
as well.

:b3: Must be new works...no recycling!

Thats it.

Good Luck and Happy ZBrushing!


------

PS-I was detained yesterday due to my mother and her precious baby kitty. Though 10 years old, she is still her baby. She is an indoor cat and she is missing. We fear the worst for this has never happened before...it has been two days now. =(

[Polaris30]

I made one too!

LOL, ok will see you guys later in the IRC.

[The Namek]

I'll probably miss it , gotta get up early tomorow and those chats are quite late in my timezone :p

MTB : my cat had been away for a week once
and came back , never knew what happened.

[Bonecradle]

Sorry to hear it MTB. When our cats go missing it's usually because they have been locked in neighbours' garages.

You've probably thought of this already but thought I'd post in case you hadn't. Maybe a neighbour is away or something. Good luck with your search.

[Stonecutter]

Sorry to hear about your mothers' cat MTB...
I live aboard the 'Midnight Wind' with two, and I regard them as family, so I know how hard this is to deal with for you and your mother...I hope her 'furry buddy' shows up...

Not being much into 'Monster' stuff, I won't be doing anything for this challenge, but I would like to offer a suggestion for a future MNC...

Why not try some more abstract and 'Non-Object' challenges? For instance, a good challenge might be the illustration of a figure of speech... What would 'a stitch in time, saving nine' look like? Or how about the imagination required to depict an emotion in a modelled form?

Although there is nothing wrong in challenges involving the tangible, if there were more abstract components to these challenges, I think you would have more of an artistic 'stretch'...
Just a few thoughts to consider. I realize that these challenges are conceived in the IRC chat, and I don't participate in those, but I wanted to offer some suggestions anyway... ;)

(One thing I will say...You come up with some great fonts in your titles for these, Dude! :tu: :cool: )

[Frenchy Pilou]

Hi MtB
And a another suggestion for a future challenge dedicaced to the Cameyo's Zplace Script ? :cool:
Pilou

[+Lazarus+]

Uh, shouldn't that be Villains?

Oh well... I'm gonna have a crack at this one :D

[jaystansfield]

Whoopeeeee!!!!

I'm gonna create a monster of all monsters, it actually EATS other monsters and forces their siblings to eat the by-product the day after. A BAAAD monster... in fact it's SO bad, it's going to eat all of YOUR monsters!! :mad: He's coming everybody....

[Mahlikus The Black]

lol Jay.
Glad you like it.

As for an abstract challenge. Where is the'challenge' in it as apposed to using ZBrush for creating the tangable. Albeit fun, easily done, and certainly more open to artistic freedom, abstract isn't what ZBrush is all about (IMO anyway). Don't get me wrong, I don't hate abstract art...yet truth be told, I don't prefer it either.
The whole concept behind the MNC is to do just that...Challenge users to do things that are new and difficult and learn from it...and do it all the ZBrush way. We were going to have a 2D challenge a few weeks back. Nothing but simple pixol pushing but of course with a fun challenge in mind. Would make a great challenge to see how users can make ZBrush stand up with Painter and Photoshop. Look at cneofotistos, Southern, and DeeVee to name a few. We all ended up appending the 2D aspect to the ZMascot Challenge. That way, those who were more comfortable with sketching then modling could join in too. But, 2D abstract...seems too easy for a 'challenge'..know what I mean? Now, then there is 3D type abstract, frenchy's love. ;) Now there is great possibilities in there. Maybe we will do an Escher Challenge sometime...3D structural abstract.
Another thing though, one of the main purposes for the challenges (or in my case...starting them up again) was to give new members inexperienced with ZBrush a chance to try something in it...to have a goal to achieve and not just random doodling (I know thats all I did before I happened on my first MNC). A great thing about the MNC thread is that if someone has a question or problem about how to create a certain aspect of the challenge in ZB, other members would post links and other support material to assist. Not to many people have popped in for that though.
Also, the challenges are a direct discussion of the participants in the MN IRC chats. The only reason for this is that everyone has a chance to discuss it live and without delay. If ZBC makes a 'Poll' Sticky, we might one day hold voting online for Challenge topics..but until then, IRC is just as quick and easily interactive.

I hope that clears things up a little bit...I have been at work 3 hours so far ans haven't accomplished a thing yet..lol...gotta go.

Take care and good luck everyone.

[manou]

old ones :) hope u enjoy them http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064416549cpn.jpg
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064416597bge.jpg

[Mahlikus The Black]

Cool manou I like the first one better...but no old or recycled stuff...make something new... ;)

[Stonecutter]

I think you missed my point by about 3 light years MTB... :D
I wasn't referring to abstract painting, but abstract concept...Portraying an emotion with a model is hardly less challenging than deciding where to put an extra horn...
I meant rather than 'let's make a truck', or 'let's make a battle axe', let's stretch artistically. Lets try to portray the invisible visibly, or a figure of speech for instance...To me, that's a hell of a lot more of a challenge! ;)

But...Like I said, I don't participate in the chat so I understand my input is limited.
(And seeing as 'Monsters' are the most common thing new users seem to do, as well as some of the long term users, where is the challenge there? )
I'm not trying to start a dispute, just clarify my point...I was NOT suggesting abstract paintings, but abstracts expressed in artwork...

[sirquadalot]

Monsters...
;)
SC there are so many.

[Stonecutter]

Sirquadalot... :D :D :D

[Mahlikus The Black]

*MTB's head explodes @ SC's view askew*

I'll clarify things a touch myself.

Either imagined, written, performed, painted, or modeled, all are 'expressed'. Abstract is just that no matter how you slice it. Art not representing things realisticlly. Thought of apart from material objects. These ideas are what governed my response. And yes, you are right...out of IRC...input is limited. It shows the importance of how IRC makes this all a group effort.

Sorry there is so much gray area on this.

Now, The Challenge here is to prop up one's work. Monsters are just the harbingers of said parameter...and a teaser for halloween.
Also, when done well, is far from an easy pop in ZB. Unless you're Pixolator, or any of our other laudable ZB masters...everything in Z is a challenge.

Okay now...So, snag your evil caps yall...its time to let the baddies out. Don't forget...Prop em up well too. ;) :tu:


BTW - Thanks Lazarus..its AI and not IA *blush*

[mattie.j]

Hello, i'm kinda new here so i hope you dont mind me having a go :D
Ive gone for a villan..great idea these Challenges!
Matt http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064436923qaa.jpg

[Mahlikus The Black]

Lol..Thats cool Matt. Couple of props there too. :tu: ;)

It doesn't matter if your an old user or new...full or demo version. You could have even just found out about ZBrush today...doesn't matter. MNC is open to all.

:tu:


Just thought of something....I suppose 2.5D work like scars and hair would be considered 'dolling it up as well'. ZSubbing too. :D

[Stonecutter]

Okay MTB...I'll try again, but might I suggest that we carry on this conversation via PM, rather than tie up the thread with this...
I think once again you miss the point...
I'm talking about abstract concepts not abstract art...As an artist, with no other occupation in my entire adult life, I have thought about this a fair bit, so pardon any perceived intransigence on my part...
What I'm suggesting is that these topics are not that 'challenging' in themselves...We have all watched lots of horror movies, to the point where some of the characters have become embedded in our cultural identity. In fact, I'm a major fan myself, and among my huge DVD collection I have some of the beauties of the genre..Therefore the 'challenge' is limited to feeding back these stereotypes...The skill of the user might decree the level of the depiction, but the basic prototypes are already there. All I was trying to suggest is that there are more thought-provoking and imaginative topics that would raise the imagination bar...I understand your rational for the IRC chat being where these things are sorted out, and accept that I have no real input...That's cool with me.
There are flaws in your analysis of the terms here, and if you want to continue the discussion, please feel free to PM me or email me, because I must admit it has been an interesting and stimulating discussion...I've enjoyed the exchange of opinion on this topic. :cool:

[matvara]

Hello everyone;
With all do respect for both veterans and new
members on this forum, I would just want to say
that I share Mr. Stonecutter's point of view.

Happy zbrushing everybody! :)

[Mahlikus The Black]

PM is better yes...yet no thank you. Not to be mean but, like the world is diverse in material..so is one's mind and beliefs. I am not one to try and change nor correct someone to my opinions. I am just happy most like the challenges. I do admit that I too feel the challenges should contain a more advanced edge. Problem is, considering ZBrush has so many new users, the more the task..the harder one might find it to participate. Like I said earlier...it would be nice to have a poll sticky feature here. Thank you for your passion in the matter though. Im more ways than one..art is all about perspective.

[Stonecutter]

Cheers, MTB... ;) :cool:

But remember what 'challenge' means, according to the dictionary definition I found in my studio library...

'CHALLENGE: To stimulate: to challenge the imagination.'

I hope you at least keep that in mind when you think up the next ones... :cool:

(And you'll be surprised to hear that I probably WILL be contributing after all, although my entry might be a little unexpected... ;) )

[Mahlikus The Black]

I don't think these up...they are a collective idea. I just post them. :) Now, I one thing I think needs to be said is that these challange are very general. Aimed at beginner to intermediate users. It would be a far different beast for advanced users. It is up to the individual to challenge themselves. You can define challenge yes..but (IMO) it is up to the individual to figure out how to apply a challeng upon themselves. Fine...topic may be boring or unstimulating...but, as an example, My level of work in an image would be far more different that someone else...say..someone who just bought ZB. Southern would also in turn be at a different level. Challenging for him would be something beyond my understanding. If you or anyone feels that the challenges are below their abilities and/or imagining...I really don't know what to say (don't misjudge..I am not saying this is your case). I do it..no matter what..for the fun and for the support to and from others. Like you, the reason I am so ardent here is to give back what little I can in gratitude. Yes I started up the challenges again..but now..it is a thing of its own. Kept alive by those who choose to participate..either in helping find a new topic or by challenging oneself.

Cheer back at ya SC. :tu:

As to entering... I guess that is the best solution..show me what you mean buddy!

[Stonecutter]

Accepted MTB, although I still think your logic is flawed, but as you said, perspective! ;)

And as my favorite musician Frank Zappa would have said...'I'll whip it out!'
:cool:

[Mahlikus The Black]

Of course I am flawed. ;)
Aren't we all in some way...lol...perspective.
MWOAHAHAH!

lol.. Lets change this to The MNC-MTB/SC "Whats YOUR Challenge thread.
:D :D :D

[mattie.j]

Hello!
Sorry to take up more space :D Had to revise Jack, so he was more 'jack' and less ice cream salesman!.
No more, i promise!
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064446204wvl.jpg

[Frenchy Pilou]

For Sc
Monster and villain (http://images.google.fr/images?q=frank+Zappa&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=fr&btnG=Recherche+Google)(finger in the nose is villain :D
Pilou
Ps And sculpture
here :) (http://www.keropiansculpture.com/fzappa.html)

[Stonecutter]

Nahhh MTB...We're done with the discussion. ;) :D
Thanks for the links mon ami Francophonie! :tu:

[zerebrom]

hmmm... I don't post here that often, but:

@stonecutter: what keeps you from posting the pics you have in mind?? You don't need an external challenge to do them - wrong??

I understand that - apart from being a fun thing to do - these challenges are a platform for newbies and "wouldbies" and veterans alike. I considered the challenges a nice invitation, removing initial fears of new users. Maybe I am flawed too :D , but I think that noone will stop you from posting your abstract (in meaning or expression) pics - doing this outside the challenges might proove as a challenge for you?

But - look at my post-count (=weight?), I seldem post here, so: why should anyone care!? ;)

[Stonecutter]

I care Z! :)

And as I said, I will be posting on this one, as I posted on the last one...
And I'm not talking about 'abstract painting' as I said to MTB. I'm talking about 'abstract concepts'...I generally don't do 'abstract paintings'. I was talking about 'representational' painting of an abstract concept. (How would you model 'Rage', an abstract concept...?)

But...We did that already, right? :D ;)

And nothing prevents me from posting anywhere at any time, except the pressures of my non-CG activities, although as I've said on another thread recently, I only post about .1% of the pieces I do... :cool:

[zerebrom]

... you are the first in .... how many months, sc ;) !

I think I understood what you told about changing this challenge to other concepts - still I think that most new users (and a lot of seasoned ones) will have enuff problems to get in reach of more "substantial" things. The problem is, we are used to communicate via speech, not images - and: as you can see if you look at a couple of these posts >>> even this is hard enough, sometimes ;) !

But to your question: think I could envision the concept "rage" in a couple of ways - I would have preferred the concept "fun", but views differ - thankfully so!!

[Stonecutter]

I just received a PM from a member with a lot lower membership number than me, and one of the 'veterans' here...I think he summed it up nicely, and to paraphrase what he said, what is missing or seperating the thoughts of MTB and myself are challenging ZB skills VS. Artistic expression...

I think he summed up the dissonance perfectly!

And 'Fun' as a subject on the thread I suggested, would fit the definition of an abstract to represent perfectly...You're right, views differ...As they say, It's all good!' :cool:

[Polaris30]

Here is my entrie...

I call him TOXIX ...

sorry for pixelated picture (lol almost typed Pixolated)

welll, it started out with a jungle doodle, and evolved into what you see here :)

Hope you all like it :)

hands are simple Zshperes adaptive skin, and quickly cylendricaly UV mapped...

head is just quickly modeled out of a sphere, torso is a Cylender subdevided and somewhat molded.

anyways hope you all like him :)

he is mostly sewergas, mixed with a colorful medely of NON- toxic paint thinner, and other "Harmless" chemicles.

I guess he is not much of a monster, he is made from things that are totaly safe for human consumption. (according to Food and Drug administration).

anyways He kicked casper the frendly ghosts ass a few weks ago, and now casper is comeing at him after Karate classes in this photo...

Thanks for looking :)


http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064461787dzw.jpg

[Mahlikus The Black]

It boils down to this fellas.
SC is talking about challenging the mind and imagination. This is great. To make it more interesting. Fine. I understand. I always did. But it is also only a tiny part of the MNC. The point of MNC is not to challenge ones imagination, or even 3D skills for that matter. The challenge is based on a user knowledge translated to program understanding basis. Content of the challenge is merely to close the bracets of possibilities per MNC. I know that sounds limiting and I know that is what SC is getting at..but it is also the point. This allows for one to concentrate on mastering ZBrush and its features and not ones imaginaion. Though, it would be advised that if you feel this way...then start to challenge your mind. If you feel that the current MNC is a bit elementary, then take if further conceptually. Take a monsterous and villainous concept to another extreme.
Like I said...even skill isn't a factor...look at our buddy gwot in the Zif-Figure challenge. He works for DE who is part of bringing Unreal II, UT2003 and UT2004 to us. Yet the zif tool challenged him...and boy way he happy after messin with it for a bit. Made an awesome mage figure. So...ask yourself..what challenges you in zbrush...what is it about the program you are scared or intimidated about...then...dive head first into it. Try to master it...you have problems or don't understand a particular way to achieve something, then pop on in here and ask...thats why ZBC and the MNC is here. So one may better learn Zbrush.

*edit*

Exactly SC..I too was going to PM you this but I thought that this would clear it up for everybody.


NOW LETS MAKE SOME BADDIES, YES!?
:D :tu: :D :tu:

[havran]

less verbiage, more monsters, please!!!!

may I ask, does anyone have any fave cooking tips for spiderwebs?

substantially edited:

I'm sure there's room for other types of challenges

as for this one, my own gabbiness gave me an idea :D :ex:

[ArfGraf]

Greetings,

Haven't posted in awhile. Recently purchased the Adobe InDesign bundle and really love the synergy between Z-Brush and Photoshop.

This image started out in Photoshop with the noose drawing and lettering.
The blood and the hand were added in Z-Brush.

This particular was the reverse of the norm.
Start in Photoshop and end in Z-Brush.
[Gallery Entry]
Enjoy! http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064468286msx.jpg

[ed_the_atom]

Hi,
I just read this post.....I will decline to enter the discusion present, because if I did I would probably set the board in to an uproar.....knowing the way I go about things.

So I will just add a few definitions:

Abstract expressionism .... is the art genre MTB seems to be actually referring to when he says Abstract painting. In fact I have seen the term abstract art misused about this place.
Abstract art....is accepted by the Art World as being the beginning of so-called Modern Art. Here it is widely accepted that a French painter David (can't remember the whole name) 1770's ish through to 1793 period is responsible. Abstract was considered a 'staged' composition. This is where all things superflouous to the story/theme were omitted in the composition. Gone were the never-ending peopled landscapes backdrops etc. A story was told in a simple manner. These paintings of David would not look like abstract paintings to us today. The main characters had to 'hold' the story. Now this seems to have changed overtime.

Abstract expressionism....began after WWII...and is predominantly concerned with splattering paint all over a canvas in some supposed order. I hate the stuff.

There is also Fauvism....some Fauvists interesting.

Now Expressionism ahh....the good stuff is wonderful.

I will say that to be able to piant or depict Abstract thought.....throughout a composition, or as a standalone feeling are both wonderful to achieve.

To enhance the drawing or modelling one undertakes......one can learn so much more about themselves and about their art with abstract thought portrayed(no argument pointed at either person above).

However my Art History is a little rusty, so I hope I haven't misled.

Don't worry I do understand both points of view expounded in the posts above.
I take no sides.

[vincentducos]

I take a guess that this will be the longuest MNC ever... text lenght speeking...
anyway, SC, I'd suggest a Tuesday Night Challenge for Abstract Concepts Entries, TNCACE... :D Having ACE in it does not mean it's for veterans only... ;)
As a long-time newbie user, i also would like to thank MTB for the initiative of getting them MNC back, as they definitely gave me the will of doing something being guided by just the little necessary arbitrary parameter I needed.
And, to terminate this stuff, I think that everyone, using perspective, can understand the subject for this MNC both concrete (i'll do my representation for that particular vilain i know) and abstract (i'll do my representation of a character that to me represents vailainy)... please input "monster" word too where needed...
:D
Now, let's Z !

Cheers all, don't be intimidated by the blabla stuff, I suppose it just was meant to mask our lack of inspiration. (False ? Now demonstrate ! :D )

[Ron Harris]

gasperdoochies...debate and art....they seem to go hand in hand...and yall are having a good one.... :tu: :tu: :tu: It is very interesting reading to a layman like myself who doesn't know squat about squat.

My only two cents about the Monday Night Challenges aka MNC would be:

:b4: They are what we make of them
:b4: You will get out what you put into them
:b4: The word challenge was used in place of contest originally so it would not alienate anyone from participating
:b4: The IRC thing was first formed by myself and Dfaris. Mentat aka Lonnie, Dlee aka Deb and Grub aka Rob and Slosh aka Brian were my moderators originally for the channel. (Which didn't and still doesn't need a lot of moderation coz it's a fun place)
:b4: The reason we quit the challenges before was due to lack of interest on the part of the forum to participate.


I am glad Mike aka Mtb got the interest going again, truly. As far as input from the forum members that can't attend any of the irc sessions for whatever reasons, I woud say either email me at catfishmn@aol.com with MNC in the subject line or PM Mtb aka Mike (Mahilikus the black) with your suggestions for the MNC by Sunday nights so that the ideas can be presented in the irc chat room for discussion.

:b2: Well time to work irl, great entries so far. This will be a very fun thread from the looks of it so far. :ex: :ex: :ex:

[andreseloy]

the judge and the killer
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064522992tsg.gif
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064527233xpr.gif
and....the site
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064533405mjb.jpg
and....the victims¡¡¡
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064534417dkb.gif

[BuGuBlub]

Hi all :)
Here, my creation :

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064525598zid.jpg

Someone noticed me to post it here :)
Why not after all :)

[Kaz]

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064528301hom.jpg

[Mentat7]

Thought I would post this since I am not going to have time to actually participate. A classic monstrous villain. I did this last year and it can be seen in my Renderosity gallery as well as my gallery on the Pixologic home page.

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064545615shp.jpg

[DMerchen]

I remember this one Lonnie! Always loved this. Still don't know how you did a lot of it. ;) :tu:

[Extra Dimensional]

Ahh, a MNC right up my alley...Did this so far tonight, will work on it over the weekend... http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064549272wzk.jpg

[aurick]

This thread already has quite a lot of nice artwork in addition to a great discussion! However, since its original purpose was art, we have opened a new thread (http://www.pixolator.com/zbc-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=1&t=012590) for the discussion.

Please continue to post your images here. Don't forget to use the Gallery Entry tag if you want your image included in the galleries that Pixolator puts together after each challenge. He'll be continuing with that tradition as soon as the new ZBrush version is released.

Please take your discussion into the other thread, where it can prosper without overshadowing the artwork here.

Thanks!

[Polaris30]

Sorry to be such a noobie,

But where is that tag for gallery entry?


I would be realy honored to be in that gallery :)

Thanks :)

BTW... We have some realy nice entries here :)

[marciani]

Hi all,
very good work Mentat, like ever!
I have a question ; may you share the technique used about the bandage?
Thanks
Bye
Leo

[Mahlikus The Black]

*edit*

Round two. =)


http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064710604wvr.jpg

[ed_the_atom]

Fang the evil sphere...

Still got to put some finer points on it.


http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064572879wqd.jpg


Real quickie....
When cows go bad...all the horns chains and whistles....should have had a bell.


http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064580021cqh.jpg

[Frenchy Pilou]

Hi Polaris
What tag ?
Gallery is free for every one :)
In the past you must add [Gallery Entry]
But As I see nobody put it now !
Pilou
Ps I have seen than Aurick retalk of it !
So if you want enter in the Gallery of Villains just write [Gallery Entry] just after your image :)

[Mahlikus The Black]

Looks like we are on the same idea ETA.

[marcel]

:) hello! I am not fanatic of monsters, (although), but the villains... hiarghhh hiarghhhhh... love them! must be like woody allen, who say that as as kid, he fall in love whith the dark queen in snow white... here is one, a bit special but rather in rage! amitiés M. http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064593877cmr.jpg

[Frenchy Pilou]

Hi Marcel
Pas beau et très vilain en effet :D
Cela va faire Baoum !
Pilou
Ps Le parquet est bien ciré :)
Pss Une vue visant le spectateur ne serait-elle point judicieuse ?

[Mahlikus The Black]

Thats really cool marcel.

What is that rendered in?

[marcel]

thank you mtb!... it's rendered in carrara 3, and in hdri... i like more and more that story of hdri... and no, frenchy pilou,it's a part of a more complex drawing, so it's conceived to be turned this way, and on front view it doesn't work well... on peut pas tout avoir :(

[afraidofthedark]

Why do most people draw ugly faces? can anyone tell me that ?
:confused: :confused:

[Grub]

Some interesting entries already...
That's a very unusual villain, Marcel- very cool idea. :tu:
Like your head too, MTB. :tu: By the way, about the challenge rotation- check out Aurick's thread, your thoughts would be appreciated.

[The Namek]

I found some time to make something.
here's my contribution , it's a monster but not evil though , just looking out for it's unborn kid :)

Edit : updated a bit

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064668356yov.jpg
[Gallery Entry]

[Frenchy Pilou]

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064606526hae.jpg
[Gallery Entry]
:)
Monster and villain :D
It's like I see the thema :)
Pilou
Ps I erase the "gallery entry" If I am the only one to put it :)

[artboy21]

MTB, marcel, and Namek, all awesome pieces! i love how everyone has there own unique style! i could tell who did them even before looking at the name! great job everyone!

artboy

[zerebrom]

@ namek: but.... this is more then "evil", it is horrible: soon there will be two of them....run, everybody :D :D !!

Fantastic image with some great textures!! That stone almost looks like soft leather. I like it a lot!! :tu: :tu: :tu:

[Ron Harris]

some great looking entries...loved the Terry, Namek. Very kewl.

Someone asked why we do so many ugly faces....hmmmmm for me I self model ;) besides normal stuff can be seen daily in the real world..I like the bizaar myself because it brings a little more sanity to my dull real world. Keep up the great work everyone. This thread is a hoot and a half :ex: :ex: :ex: :ex:

[Zoid]

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064631199jqo.jpg

:)

[Stonecutter]

Welcome back Zoid... :D
Missed ya around here, Buddy! :cool:
(And with my favorite little trick with the GRD button as well...Mosaic City! ;))

[Ron Harris]

He lives under yer bed...zBOOty bandit
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064639318ljt.jpg

[The Namek]

/me checks his bed immediatly !!

great work :)

zoid : you got the first smile on my face today , might have something to do with that blueish thingie :p

marciani : I believe lonnie said it somewhere in the old thread where he posted the image , but I cant seem to find it ...
I believe he used the Single layer brush with ZADD(around 5 I think) and RBG white-grey. Then used that round alpha , but not the one that fades out .. forgive me for not knowing it's number :p , then by stroking over your model you can create those bandages.

[Fets]

It has been a while since I last posted and a forum like this is just too tempting to NOT post anything.
Flames are postwok in PS, everything else is Z. http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064662384edo.jpg

[BuGuBlub]

I don't if i can reply one more time to show you my last 'creation' :) I don't know if i can say what i do is a creation ^^

so, watch it ^^ :

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064691256cir.jpg

Good Job All :D

[Ron Harris]

Zbooty's Bro...
Took the basic head, made some more eyes for him and played more with lighting.....and I was sitting here burning a candle myself...so I thought I would model one and play with lighting to give it "that look". Noba's Insector inspired the lighting play. Thought it turned out kinda neat.

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064721126anx.jpg

[Zoid]

Stonecutter- Thanks, I thought you'd like that.

Namek- The Blue thingie is the prop. This challenge is about Monsters, villians and their props, and these two seemed to go together. :)

Ron- Putting that candle in there really adds some atmosphere. I like it :tu:

I think I'm going to try another one of these, I just got another idea. Thanks for the inspiration everyone.

[jaystansfield]

Clown Tramp.

A villain? No. A monster? Well...just try laughing at his sad, old face...
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064774724zix.jpg

[jaystansfield]

hehe...!
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064774895qbq.jpg

[Kircho]

HI everyone,
I saw this thread last night and was really excited. After poking and piking at the dark and nasty corners of my brain , I found this cute little creature ::
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064800232xnv.jpg

Don't be fooled by his cute little eyes or the two sweet little baby teeth. Inside his threat so wide and army of rasor sharp dagers reside. His mouth oh so tiny can devour you entirly :))..muhahah....you can tell I had fun with character....

All comments and critique are welcome as are any question :)

Kircho

[Mahlikus The Black]

Thats wicked awesome kirco!!

I am not to sure where I want to go yet...so I made another head. Don't like the first.


http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064800936gyn.jpg

[Ron Harris]

Kircho, I would love to hear about materials light setting etc on this image...looks so very real....gaspers..

Lookin good mike..

as a matter of fact all the entries are very kewl :tu:

[artboy21]

NICE kircho and MTB!

kircho is that a z render? it looks awesome! really great modeling too! your modeling always inspires me!

MTB, really nice head as well! i love all of your stuff! i was actually just going through one of your thread's about skin texturing, it was really helpful, ( i am still lost, but o well) i love the texture on this guy!

artboy

[Ron Harris]

Witchy Pooh

This is fun. I know alot of these last few have had alot of the same looks..but its a lot of experimenting...

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064808473wgn.jpg


This script...is up to the point of the eyes and hair...havent ran it yet, so I don't know how good it works yet...anyhoo..here it is if you wanna use it..


smileyGuyEvil.PSD (http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200402/user_file-1064808572tyg.psd)


smileyGuyEvil.TXT (http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200311/user_file-1064820101eyi.txt)

[Mahlikus The Black]

Thx :D
There actually isn't any texture on him...it is only a super-tweaked quadshader material.

[Ron Harris]

Midnight Blue Zombie

Last one before bed. Now I can sleep in peace.

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064817751mqt.jpg

[longshanks]

Ron,

It looks just like my old girlfriend.

Long

[andreseloy]

Hi Kircho your model is great, not only very original but the sculps is superb. The folds...Congratulations

[MrBraun]

First off: HELLO TO ALL Z-FRIENDS !!!!
After long time i post again ! sorry fot the absence !!
Gread image here !
This is my contribution :

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064840884pdk.jpg
Gallery Entry
Tnx for hall !

P.S:
Inspired from Southern!;
Teeth from Mentat !

[TeckZ]

Gello Mr.Braun!!!
Great work!
but could You gave me may be links or smoething else, or advice : how to make a teeth?

Thanks

[Frenchy Pilou]

Hi Teck
Make teeth by Pixo :) (http://www.pixolator.com/zbc-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=1&t=000147)
Tutorial by D...spiral (http://www.pixolator.com/zbc-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=1&t=002891) (Developpment bottom page)
Hope this help!
Pilou

[The Namek]

nice image Mr. Braun , but maybe downsize it a bit to get rid of the jaggies.

MTB : the head reminds me of a wizard one you made a while ago , what was wrong with the previous one ? it looked cool :)

[Mahlikus The Black]

Namek...Thats funny because I
had planned to make the second one a wizard with tattoos and all kinds of coolies.
as for the first....it isnt cutting it for what I am looking for...thats the problem with not going through thumbnails and roughs first.
Oh well, its still fun though. In creating these, I realized how much I missed playing with ZBrush.

[Extra Dimensional]

Minotaur WIP update...I think the headshot is up on page 2 or 3 if you're interested. The final will hopefully be tomorrow night...121 welcome http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064931418dtv.jpg

[Kircho]

THanks MTB , Andreseloy , Artboy21 and Ron Harris I appricate very much all your comments :)

As to the question you have posted :) ::

- THis is a z-render . As well as a model.

- The lighting and material setting, as I have mentioned in my previous threads, are infact those presented by Southern . My settings are not exactly the same but very similar. For your convenience I have put the light setup and material in a .zip for you to download.Mat+Light.zip (http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200311/user_file-1064965491gxw.zip)
Also aside from the materials and lighting there is some tweeking done with the rended output from the Render Panel -> Adjustments tab.

Thanks once again for all your comments

Kircho

[TeckZ]

Thanks Frenchy!!! ill try it!

[Northstarr]

Well folks despite the fact that I couldn't possibly stack up to some of these posts in here, and the fact that modelling is not my forte, I decided to play with the boys anyhow and render my attempt at a monster.
No laughing now! OK?

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200309/user_image-1064982464ifn.jpg

Oh yeh, somehow there is a fine line across the whole image around his chin. I rendered it several times and it always showed up. If anyone has any idea how it got there I would appreciate your comments so I can avoid this in future. Thanks!


:b1: :b1: :b1:

[Hymnofnot]

[Gallery Entry]
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1064991034vfn.jpg

....Getting into the mood.
(I need to start doing backgrounds)

-= Me =-

[kokoro]

hello northstar, i recall that someone else had this same problem, i tried to find that post, but did not succeed. :(
in that case it was, if i remember correctly, the problem that a plane was used which did not have high enough resolution. i do not know if this helps, but maybe frenchy knows where to look for that post...

[Northstarr]

Thanks Kokoro, but I no planes were used in this pic at all everything you see was modelled from a single sphere. But I thank you for taking the time to check into it for me.

Donna

[Stonecutter]

Well, as I said, I came up with a 'Monster' image that I thought was less 'traditional' and also would challenge me to do something I hadn't tried before and this is the result...
First, I thought of the term 'Monster', and then I asked myself what sort of monster doesn't get any treatment, but would be a perfect example...

My answer? The ultimate monster of our time, which slays without selectivity, men, women, and children, of all cultures, ages, and countries...The HIV Virus. Having decided on my topic for depiction, I went out into cyber-ville, and found an image of this Monster/Villain...Imagine my surprise, when I found that I had given myself a REAL challenge, since the virus is based on an Icosahedron, one of the basic 'Platonic Solids'...
Hhhhmmmm...How to do an Icosahedron in ZBrush? Now in LightWave, I would go to Modeller, choose 'Create->Platonic Solid->Icosahedron'...Of course, here that would be a no-no supremo, so here's the procedure I used. Knowing that the faces of an Icosahedron are equilateral triangles, I remembered one of my favorite Ken Brilliant pieces, 'House On The Hill'. In this, Ken used ZSpheres to make a tree, created a leaf, and then a 'sacrificial layer', on which he placed spheres within the branches...Since ZBrush recognises depth info, the solution worked perfectly for him, (and for me... ;) )
He drew the leaves, using the surface of the spheres to align the leaves, followed by deleting the sphere layer...I used a variation here.
I placed a sphere, created one face, then placed it, moving it down on the sphere until I had the sphere showing through the face. Then I snapshotted that face, and moved the copy into position, working from one point...The result? Proof that you CAN make Platonic, flat-faced objects in ZBrush with patience... :cool:

The background is done with Cameyo's most excellent ZPlace script, and the 'Biohazard' symbol is a 2D image, turned into 3D, and the material is Toy Plastic with the diffuse, and specular graphs tweeked to give me the 'pinstriped' effect...

So, I won't say I hope you enjoy this monster image, given the horrendous killer it portrays, but I want to thank the MNC, and in particular MTB, for giving me a challenge that would not have happened otherwise, and from which I have learned much! :)

So...my MONSTER/VILLAIN...The HIV Virus.

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065060304jdp.jpg

Please feel free to ask for any technical details that you may be interested in... :cool:

[Polaris30]

Hi stone cutter :)

How did you make those sexy green lines? and can you make the black parts transparent?

[Stonecutter]

Cameyo's 'ZPlace Script' Polaris...The easiest way to get this script, (Which everyone should have), is to go to any post by Frenchy Pilou, (I would suggest his 'ZPlace' thread a few posts down from here), and you'll be all set.
And as far as I know, black IS transparent in ZBrush... :cool:

[Extra Dimensional]

Stonecutter, looking at that image, now THAT is scary. When you see it realized in full 3D, it looks like a real monster. With many heads and mouths on a completely alien body...If I didn't know what this was, I would still give you much credit for creativity as well as skill. Excellent post. :tu:

[Stonecutter]

Thank you E/D! :D
As I said previously on this thread, the idea of conventional 'Monster' images leaves me cold. I think software is secondary to imagination, and some fanged and horned imaginary creature is not that scarey to me.
Now, indifference, brutality, racism, poverty, and many other lacks in humanity...THOSE are scarey!

I'm glad you saw where I was going with this!
Thanks again! :cool:
(And it IS scarey looking...! I hadn't actually seen the virus until I started this image a few days ago... :eek: )

[Extra Dimensional]

Okay, now for my final image in the MNC monsters/villians category. This is by far my best work and I'm not ashamed to say that MNC has helped me develop my skills in ZBrush by providing me with a challenge to hone my skills around. Thank you all for the advice and support, I'll probably end up posting this image in it's own topic later, I'm so happy with the results that I'd like to share the finished project with others that don't follow the MNC posts. Well without further audieu,here is...The Minotaur! or alternatively titled, "Matador's Nightmare." (Fully modeled, painted and rendered in ZBrush!) http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065067196uvq.jpg

[Stonecutter]

Some VERY rich texturing Extra-D! :tu: :cool: :tu:
You have a nice sense of hue! :cool:

[Ron Harris]

and you shouldnt be ashamed of it Extra Dimensional...very very nice work....he turned out pretty dang kewl as all heck... :tu: :tu: :tu: :tu: :cool:

[kokoro]

yes, michael, the hiv virus is the most desastrous and horrible monster world has seen so far - and i am glad you show us. its good to keep that in mind.

i like how you depicted this, in using an elegant background to put it on. i do understand right that the virus is just the is icosahedron with this thingies attached ?

michael you forgot your gallery entry tag.
;)

[Digits]

After gazing at Michael's definite evil doer I thought I would represent a lesser known villain, thankfully a more benign one. This guy crawls out of your ear while you are taking a shower and eats the elastic off your socks.

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065073031xrp.jpg

[Mahlikus The Black]

That is top notch Extra D!
Props, blood, and all!
Wicked awesome entry!! :eek: :D :tu:

[Frenchy Pilou]

Hi Stone
Why not post the "Icosaedre" Model as a script or as a tool ?
Maybe some lovers of Platon geometry should be interested :)
Pilou
PS Great "horrible" Virus !

[Polaris30]

Watch out Ladies!,\


Here he comes!!!!

The dumbelldiggler! He is hideing in closets and under beds!!!
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065083454rto.jpg


He is a ghost from Bongodawaiva Africa! He is known best for sneaking up behind elderly old women and makeing obscene Rasberry noises behind their buttoxes.

He mostly gose after women between the age of 60-80....

He also likes sitting in the shadows and licking his eyebrows. (trick I learned at nightclubs, works great for picking up women!!)

anyways, here he is ... I am going to maby make a Zsphere adaptive skin for body...

I will post any other renders I do here :)

[Extra Dimensional]

Hi,

Thanks, SC, Ron, Kokoro and MTB...Mahlikus, are you still working on the "head" that you initially posted as a teaser? If so, can't wait to see that one, I really thought the modeling was going great. Now that I've finished one image, time for the next, and the best part is, I have NO IDEA what I'm going to make yet. A famous artist once said what his favorite painting was, and he said, my next one, always my next one.

[RAMSESIIV]

hi everyone all those post are great, i'm gonna work a model inspired by a magazine.
This is the first step before modeling. I hope you like it.
Keep having ZFUN http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065106929byk.jpg
the second step
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065268669ljk.jpg
this is a new model i'm gonna detailed more...
http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065272717ojg.jpg
;)

[Stonecutter]

Thanks Frenchy... :D
I'm glad you liked it, but to post either the tool or a script would be problematic...
First, there IS no tool, unles you count the face model I built this from, which is a 3-sided cylinder with smoothing deselected...And as far as a script goes, it would be VERY long, since each face was placed by hand, as I outline in my post...

(I'm actually thinking it was a mistake to post this here, as I think this thread has no place for anything other than 'generic' monster thingies...What I was trying to do was share a technique that I thought was interesting, since it used one of Ken B's most innovative ideas, using the 'Pixol' depth reading ability of ZBrush, but I'm not sure this fits the thread...I WAS trying to stimulate new ideas, but I think people have a 'comfort zone' that they are reluctant to leave... ;) )

I might post this again in the main forum to develope the technique, and maybe try some experimentation with the possibilities... :cool:

Kokoro: The whole thing is the virus, although the 'base form' is an Icosahedron...
;) As far as the 'Gallery Entry' tag goes, I'm not sure this belongs to this topic, given the nature of the topic, as perceived by the originators... :cool:

For those interested, here's the link to Ken Brilliants' excellent thread... http://www.pixolator.com/zbc-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=1&t=008095

Check out this technique... :tu:

[Digits]

Sometimes to see a monster you only to look at oneself in the mirror.

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065134884frj.jpg

I just tripped over my head and stubbed my toe. Ed the Atom made that!

And a tribute to the late and great Kruzr for his HexWeave texture which I love.

[Skaven252]

Digits;
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>This guy crawls out of your ear while you are taking a shower and eats the elastic off your socks.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Gee, I didn't know fabric softener looks like that.(everyone knows that fabric softener eats elastic, right?)

[Mahlikus The Black]

Here is my villain head again. Tons more modeling tweaks. I wanted to emulate some Zteve-Rae atmosphere too. Considering his recent achievement @ Rosity, and for just being plain badass, I have begun to disect his (and others) images very closely.
Going to stop here though and move on with modeling the rest of the scene.

http://www2.zbrushcentral.com/uploaded_from_zbc/200310/user_image-1065221408nxg.jpg

[Extra Dimensional]

Cool MTB. :tu: Got rid of the horns I see. Right now in this stage it look just like a plastic mask stretched over a styrofoam manikin. Kind of like you'd see in a Hollywood special effects studio. Kinda creepy. Can't wait for the final.

[juandel]

:D the sock elastics industry conglomerat will hate you for this revelation, Digits! put wax in them ears when showering - get everlasting socks!

not being experienced in monstermaking and starting too late to come up with a fullbodymodel i did one of the 12000 eyes of the beast only:

http://www.cyber-webs.com/zbrush/juandel/moeye.jpg

i made a lot of use of my new friend the cloner brush to do the "lids" and surroundings.

- juandel