In conversation with 3D maestro, Martin Kamminga
Having fallen in love with 3D design at an early age, Martin Kamminga quickly became a master of CGI, specialising in visual effects for film and television, product rendering, illustration, and other types of digital content. His artwork is both varied and impressive, drawing inspiration from everything from nature to music.
Why did you decide to take up your creative trade?
I started using 3D software back in high school, initially just as a hobby. However, I completely fell in love with the possibilities and I just had to find a way to make it into a career! Drawing was never something that came to me naturally, but using 3D as a medium allowed me to create art in a different way.
How do you get past creative blocks?
Creative blocks can be quite overwhelming when they happen in the middle of a project. When the situation allows, I step away for a bit, so I can return to the project later with a clear mind and fresh eyes. I usually work from reference, so going online to find work that inspires me usually goes a long way getting the creative juices flowing again!
What is your creative process?
I always start a project by gathering lots of references. These can be photographs, drawings, colour wheels, etc. As I collect these images I always get inspired and naturally, a vague concept will form in my mind. I will then narrow down my search to find the right references that will further solidify my idea.
Based on all the material I gathered, I will create a quick 3D sketch of what I want to create. Once I feel confident about my idea, it’s time to realize the vision you have to the best of my abilities!
Where do you look for inspiration?
You can find inspiration in anything! Whether that is by being outside in nature, listening to music, watching movies, playing games, or browsing Pinterest and Behance. Pinterest especially is extremely powerful when trying to generate new ideas quickly as there are so many great photography references to be found there.
What are you reading or listening to right now?
Whenever I work, I always listen to music. I love progressive rock and metal. The albums I keep coming back to because I love them so much are Lateralus by Tool, Heritage by Opeth, and Holy Diver by Dio.
Music really inspires and motivates me throughout the workday, so I am always on the hunt for new genres and artists that I have not heard of before.
What does your typical day involve?
I tend to wake up quite early so I have time to go out and exercise. I love weight training and long-distance running as it keeps me in shape and energizes me for the day ahead.
Once that is taken care of, I start working in my home office. I like to do meetings and emails first so I can concentrate on my creative projects for the rest of the day. I usually work until dinner, after which I take time to decompress and get ready for the day ahead!
How do you switch off?
Since I work from home, an effective way to switch off is to get out of the house! I like to go for walks, a long run, or go to the gym. Spending quality time with the people you care about is even better.
Who inspires you?
I quickly get inspired by other people who create the type of work I aspire to create as well. Examples of artists I look up to a lot are David Turfitt, Ash Thorp, Colorsponge, Melih Ucer, and Ross Mason.
A big thank you to Martin Kamminga for contributing to our series of creative conversations with industry experts.