ZLuca, Mecha-sculptor, Hi ALL!

[ZLuca]

http://kallamity.com/pics/products/BRIEG01/09.JPG

Hi all guys
My name is Luca Zampriolo from Italy.
Above all, please excuse my bad language :)
I've been lurking longtimes, but now I've kept courage and decided to face this great community.

I work as concept artist, illustrator and mecha sculptor since 2000.
I also love to make etchings and paintings, when work leaves me some time....

Two years ago I've opend my own Company, Kallamity.com (http://kallamity.com/) and I create and sell my original subjects.
Since last night I have also a little gallery here on CA http://www.conceptart.org/index.php?artist=ZLuca&cat=updated and I hope it'll grow up very soon with you.
That's all for now and I hope you like my stuff!
Thanks for watching!

Luca

[KingUnicorn]

Hey, ZLuca - welcome aboard.

You've got a great style there and I'm certain your influences are easily picked out based on your conceptual process. It's nice to see some traditional sculpting applied to the mecha genre given the rise of digital sculpting. This is a refreshing change and certainly work with a skill that's not to be ignored.

I hope you'll include some in-process photos in this thread here. I caught a few samples of your rough starts on your site, but the addition of a start-to-finish project would certainly be a welcome addition to the other sculpting happening here.

Cheers!

~KU

[ZLuca]

Hey, ZLuca - welcome aboard.

You've got a great style there and I'm certain your influences are easily picked out based on your conceptual process. It's nice to see some traditional sculpting applied to the mecha genre given the rise of digital sculpting. This is a refreshing change and certainly work with a skill that's not to be ignored.

I hope you'll include some in-process photos in this thread here. I caught a few samples of your rough starts on your site, but the addition of a start-to-finish project would certainly be a welcome addition to the other sculpting happening here.

Cheers!

~KU

Hello KingUnicorn
Thanks, I'm glad you like my stuff.
Yes my approach is traditional sculpture, even if recently I'm interesting in 3D modelling too.
I usually don't discard any possibilities in art :).
I have to say I usually pass some months to finish a model, (9 months to finish Briegel-baby, in previous attached file),
I love working handly, adding details, modelling wet epoxy, cutting and shaping dry putty, etc... in one word : SCULPTING
In one of my latest project, Starship Iguana http://kallamity.com/products/view/IG-prog1 , I collaborated with a 3D artist, Alberto Longo.
I've started creating original concept with him, in the meantime he translated my sketches in 3D forms, and finally electronically-controlled milling machine made the parts, but as you can see in galleries below the page, I'm adding and sculpting details on the ship, because I like to mix medias.
I like also to sketch shapes improvising, that's why I find many answers in this way to work.
BtW, I don't exclude I'll make some models only in 3D, a day, I just hope to have such a skill

Effectively my idea was to show some sculpting techniques here, just wanted to be sure someone could be interested in this kind of stuff.

I love also to paint models, so I could open a thread very soon with progress of a subject from A to Z if you guys want.
Maybe on this monster, if you like:

http://kallamity.com/pics/products/HECATON/RESIN/P1010002.jpg

Thanks!
Luca

[lilalex]

Bravo!! Fantastic concepts, ZL. :bow:

Look forward to more of your designs!!
la

[ZLuca]

Thanks Lilalex!
I'm glad you like those concepts and I'll post other stuff very soon!
Thanks
Luca

[VulgarDragon]

I'm amazed at the level of details in your sculptures. It is extremely difficult to get the perfect, symmetrical designs inherent in machinery in sculpting medium and I'm very impressed by how well you do that. Amazing stuff and I look forward to seeing more!

[ZLuca]

Excuse me for delay in reply, I've passed last week out of my country for work...

Thanks Mad Cross for your congrats.
Yes, making symmtrical parts is one of the first difficult things I've learned in mecha sculpture.
There's some trick to make that, it just depend if you have to do square parts or round parts.
On the contrary, if you have to make equal parts (like feet or pistons, forearms,shoulders, etc....) I usually proceed making just 1 part and successively some pre-moulds of them. In this case I'll have a master with a solid and trustful structure/frame.

If parts are symmetrical, I usually scratcbuild from zero both parts.
It depends on the shape of the part I have to do.

In earlier 3 images you can see some blank scratcbuildt parts in white (mainly on white Milliput putty and plasticard) and colored by grey primer some others, and then mirror parts all around the seat (naked and not finished at all) and on the closed cockpit.
In the 4th one you can see pre-casted legs with primer and just the beginning of mirror thights with temporary parts just to understand shapes and volumes of final thights.

I hope you understand my explications and enjoy pics :)

Thanks
Luca

[Lostindespair]

wow, you're awesome. I have no bloody idea how you get such clean edges.

[darkwolf29a]

^^^

What he said, but...

I am going to ask... How do you do that?

Is it a combination of plastic and clay, just clay, just plastic???

Inquiring minds want to know. ;)

Seriously, your work is fantastic and any information would be cool.

[ZLuca]

Lostindespair and darkwolf29a.
Above ll thanks for your comments.
At first I usually make LOTS of sketches, drawings and concepts, both of the whole model and of specific parts.
My technique is quite strange, but not so different from some other modellers.
I love to use spare model kits parts or common and daily use plastic (and non-plastic) objects, parts, etcc...like lighters, earphones, different plastic shields at 20 %. I choose those parts when I recognize the right volume for the part I have in mind, and then I'll cover with coats of epoxy putty to make them unrecognizable (even if sometimes I like to joke keeping some of them recognizable hehe :) )
I usually do it with white Milliput putty, but also with black or a mix between them (it becomes grey, you'll see some exemples in next pics).
I have no idea if you know this putty. I definitely love it and it's 10 years I use only that. I know many modellers are using some others putties, judging them better than M. , but I love this putty and I won't change it at all.
It's a bicomponent epoxidic putty, to mix in 50-50 proportions. It takes 20-40 minutes to dry (depending on outside temperature), less than 20 if you put the part under a warm source like hairphone or whatever you want. It becomes hard and strong as a ston when dry.
I usually model it when is wet yet and only when is dry I sand, refine or sculpt. So I usually work Milliput both wet and dry. When dry you can also engrave, scribing or adding some extra media parts on it. I like to work more free as I can. I usually work and modify also resin parts of my old models, luckily remain always a lot of parts from a Garage Kit production.
The rest 80% is usually made by plasticard sheets of every thickness (it depends on the part I have to make) for the basic structure, and then covered by Milliput again. That's right for complicated or rounded shapes. If I have to do square or streight parts, I usually use just plasticard.
I have not a pre-arranged or usual way to work, it just depends on my inspiration at the moment, on sketches, on particular shape I have to do, etc.... every parts need a different way to work.
You'll see I usually put a hell of details, like cables, tubes, pipes, springs to underline organic or steampunkish taste on some models, clean and square shapes in more technological subjects.
The most important thing is to mix all details and techniques to achieve a good organic part. To mix different parts I use usual putty, creating a whole shape and filling all the holes for casting process.
I hope you have understand my description, hope you were not bored by this long explanation.
Now...pics time!
That's my latest finished build. The name of this spider-scary-monster is Hecaton and it was a commission work from a great artist friend of mine, Paolo Parente, for his series DUST.
He said me "made what you want", and that's the result.
Sorry if I haven't take pics for every passage, but I was in hurry to finish model in time.

Here's some pics of hecaton parts in many stages with many medias, like black Milliput, grey (white + black), resin spare parts, springs, cables, plasticard and sculpted details.
You'll see also a drinking straw...:)
Last five images represent details of the blank resin copy.
For exemple, in first one of them, you can see all details, cables and eyes which were sculpted entirely in milliput.

Hope you enjoy guys!
Luca

[phatzap]

Very very awesome.... Robot.

[TeaMonster]

Hi ZLuca, I had a look at your website -WOW, you've done loads!

Insane detailing, Incredibly awesome!!
Your work is top quality and your paint finishes....wow, Love it all!!
Now go make more cool stuff for us to drool over :)

My words don't do ya justice, I hope you never doubt your ability and go shy on us, coz you've got talent that needs sharing.

[Thagomizer]

Wow! Excellent work! In my dinosaur flesh restorations I have always used Miliput ( the grey-green though, never got around to the white) and always liked its feel for working on. Very useful and informative photos; it's neat to watch something like this come together. I can only imagine the amount of work between each shot. Thank you for posting your work!

[ZLuca]

Very very awesome.... Robot.

Thanks!

Hi ZLuca, I had a look at your website -WOW, you've done loads!

Insane detailing, Incredibly awesome!!
Your work is top quality and your paint finishes....wow, Love it all!!
Now go make more cool stuff for us to drool over :)

My words don't do ya justice, I hope you never doubt your ability and go shy on us, coz you've got talent that needs sharing.

Thanks, I'm glad you've appreciated my work.
I'll be the less shy I can, promised!
I usually just have time problems, but when I can, I'm very happy to post here.
I've waited many years to post my work on CA , always scared about general skill here. Now that I faced the problem, I'll never stop :)

Wow! Excellent work! In my dinosaur flesh restorations I have always used Miliput ( the grey-green though, never got around to the white) and always liked its feel for working on. Very useful and informative photos; it's neat to watch something like this come together. I can only imagine the amount of work between each shot. Thank you for posting your work!

Thanks!
Grey-green is quite good too, but become "old" too soon generally. On catalyst part there's often dry parts and it's very difficult sometimes to join a perfect mixture, without grains on it.
White and black one are usually the best IMO.
White one enables to see imperfections and mistakes very well and is possible to polish perfectly.

Yes, there's a lot of work between shots, even if I've started Hecaton in June and in October was already casted..
It has been a very funny sculpture!

Thanks all guys!
Luca

[frozenbean]

Fantastic work! The in progress shots are particularily inspiring, can't wait to see more.

[freakinacage]

your stuff is great. it's a little late but welcome to the forums! and don't apologise for your english, it's very good!

[ZLuca]

your stuff is great. it's a little late but welcome to the forums! and don't apologise for your english, it's very good!

Thanks, I know it's not true, but I'm so glad to read this comment! :)

Let's go on with Hecaton paint progress.

After some troubles, finally I'm able to start new paint job.
The build was focused to assign to the subject an interesting pose. Once obtained, I've fixed all joints with SuperGlue.
The Model is OOTB, except just a modification I'll show you after.

Concerning the paint base, I've started with a Tamiya white primer coat.

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/3554/p6252077.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/p6252077.jpg/)
http://img41.imageshack.us/i/p6252081.jpg/
http://img9.imageshack.us/i/p6252085.jpg/
http://img9.imageshack.us/i/p6252092.jpg/
http://img9.imageshack.us/i/p6252098.jpg/

Build completed:

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/5648/p6252122.jpg (http://img195.imageshack.us/i/p6252122.jpg/)

Then, I've started to make contrasts with a dark-flat-hot-metal base, obtained with flat red and yellow (5%) white, black, silver and flat base Tamiya.
The coat was applied not carefully, just to give a solid base for future paint coats.

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/3933/p6302274.jpg (http://img41.imageshack.us/i/p6302274.jpg/)

http://img191.imageshack.us/i/p6302273.jpg/
http://img191.imageshack.us/i/p6302275.jpg/
http://img191.imageshack.us/i/p6302277.jpg/
http://img34.imageshack.us/i/p6302278.jpg/
http://img34.imageshack.us/i/p6302280.jpg/
http://img34.imageshack.us/i/p6302281.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/p6302282.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/p6302283.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/p6302284.jpg/
http://img43.imageshack.us/i/p6302285.jpg/
http://img43.imageshack.us/i/p6302286.jpg/
http://img43.imageshack.us/i/p6302287.jpg/
http://img193.imageshack.us/i/p6302288.jpg/
http://img193.imageshack.us/i/p6302289.jpg/
http://img193.imageshack.us/i/p6302290.jpg/

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/5954/p6302291.jpg (http://img12.imageshack.us/i/p6302291.jpg/)


http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/172/p7022336.jpg (http://img6.imageshack.us/i/p7022336.jpg/)

Then I've started to paint in gloss white and gloss black some details , above all in the legs:

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/4869/p7012333.jpg (http://img27.imageshack.us/i/p7012333.jpg/)



A lot of work to do yet...
Hope you'll enjoy the monster guys! :D

z

PRESENT LOOK:

[Imaginary]

Your mechs are ridiculously cool... O_O

[FightingSeraph]

Damn, your stuff is badass so far...Keep going!

[ZLuca]

Thanks for support guys!


Now update time!
I've finished to paint white and black details, adding also a bit of Humbrol Gold on the joints, rivets, connections and some other details
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/p7082349.jpg/

http://img18.imageshack.us/i/p7082355.jpg/

Two exemples:
THE GUN

http://img9.imageshack.us/i/p7082358.jpg/

THE BACK

http://img29.imageshack.us/i/p7082359.jpg/

Then, I've started with some light washes, released with etching Charbonnell varnish, an experiment on model world.
http://img29.imageshack.us/i/p7082362.jpg/

http://img29.imageshack.us/i/p7082365.jpg/

Then, black oil+ white spirit wash, just to highlight details

THE HEAD

http://img172.imageshack.us/i/p7092375.jpg/

BACK DETAILS

http://img139.imageshack.us/i/p7092376.jpg/
THE BODY

http://img12.imageshack.us/i/p7092377.jpg/

THE PELVIS

http://img151.imageshack.us/i/p7092380.jpg/

A lot to do yet.... see you on next update!
thanks for viewing
Luca

PRESENT LOOK:

[Vaporware]

Man you do such great work, I'm glad the internet is here otherwise I would never know about your designs.

Do you do all the resin casting and packaging yourself, or do you have helpers?

[ZLuca]

Thanks Man!
Yes, Internet is very useful!
I do all the work from concept sketches to parcel shipping :), except for casting.
I think casting is a true kind of art itself and I would not be able to well cast hundred of parts for runs of 30 or more....
I give this work to professional factories.
Luca

[Kryppers]

Woah.. I had a look through your site and you make some seriously cool stuff, man.

I recently started focusing on my scratchbuilding.. and I got to say, it's very inspirational seeing what kind of results you can get with enough dedication and the right techniques (some of which I recognise from my own projects :D)

[El Jeremie]

yeah baby yeah!
Once again, another proof that Italians are the heirs from Michelangelo.
I love what you do since i've browse Paolo Parente's dust.

[ZLuca]

Woah.. I had a look through your site and you make some seriously cool stuff, man.

I recently started focusing on my scratchbuilding.. and I got to say, it's very inspirational seeing what kind of results you can get with enough dedication and the right techniques (some of which I recognise from my own projects :D)

Thanks Kryppers!
Scratchbuilding of what? I'd be curious!:)


yeah baby yeah!
Once again, another proof that Italians are the heirs from Michelangelo.
I love what you do since i've browse Paolo Parente's dust.

Thanks to you too Jeremie!
I know many French people fond of mechas, you're very talented too!!:drinkup:
I collaborated many times with Paolo! His Dust stuff is gorgeous also this year we'll be together in Lucca (Tuscany) Con in October in the same stand. It's not so away from you, so if you're not so busy you can consider to come visiting us and beautiful city!

Thanks for your kind words guys!
Luca

[pauljmendoza]

Hey there Luca!

Welcome man, beautiful stuff as usual!

[Breath of Life]

This kind of stuff blows me away. Organic sculpting, no matter how complex it is, I can grasp and even think I could pull it off. But this stuff... Never.

[ZLuca]

Hey there Luca!

Welcome man, beautiful stuff as usual!
Thank you very much Paul! Nice to see here you too!


This kind of stuff blows me away. Organic sculpting, no matter how complex it is, I can grasp and even think I could pull it off. But this stuff... Never.
Do you mean that organic sculpting is easier to change or to upset the sculpture?
Yes, in this kind of sculpture isn't so easy but always possible...

Thanks guys for your interventions!
Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello Guys
That's another Hecaton update!

I've added some other colors on it:
-Enamel (Humbrol) light blue in some other parts
-Reddish brown (Humbrol)
-Ochre
All small coats have been done using a 000 brush with very diluted color.
After that, again black wash, but matt Black+Tamiya thinner this time.
Finally some airbrush shade with very diluted black.
Eyes were painted in Tamiya clear red with a glossy black wash on them, they're not finished yet .....

Pics:

http://img246.imageshack.us/i/p7132411.jpg/=640 height=4

http://img509.imageshack.us/i/p7132406.jpg/

http://img164.imageshack.us/i/p7132414.jpg/

http://img246.imageshack.us/i/p7132419.jpg/

http://img375.imageshack.us/i/p7142442.jpg/

http://img505.imageshack.us/i/p7142443.jpg/

http://img161.imageshack.us/i/p7142454.jpg/

http://img161.imageshack.us/i/p7142456.jpg/

http://img177.imageshack.us/i/p7142458.jpg/

http://img177.imageshack.us/i/p7142459.jpg/

http://img257.imageshack.us/i/p7142462.jpg/

http://img257.imageshack.us/i/p7142464.jpg/

Other paint intervention needed. Some details will be worked better in next steps, so nothing definitive yet!
Thanks for viewing
Luca

PRESENT LOOK:

[AhChu]

Holy cow, your stuff is insane :) awesome models ZLuca, im blown away by it, reminds me how coo it was making and painting models when I a kid...except your stuff is a million times better :) looking forward to more

[robinmitra]

i love robot design n ur work is really nice

[sketcheth]

Incredible work...wow.

[kimliatach]

Oh my god Wow.
Astonishing awe inspiring, tremendous.

[KingUnicorn]

ZLuca, I have no doubts that you're simply not human. Nope. You're a mechangeneer sent from some distant planet to tantalize us with the possibilities of what sentient machines and piloted vehicles might look like in the years to come.

It's very easy to lose sight of the creativity and imagination that exists in mechanical design in the face of alien creatures and fantastic beasts. But you bring it all together with such a keen attention to detail that rivals the work of the Japanese masters that dominated mecha design.

Simply stunning work as usual.

~KU

[kingofdaveness]

Awesome stuff as usual man. Absolutely awesome!

Just wondering if you have had any issues with milliput poisoning?

I have read on sculpting forums that it tends to build up in the skin and cause nasty rashes after considerable use, though I dont use it as much as you!

I use green-grey a great deal, and often mix in kneadatite to get a slightly rubbery memory. Havent tried the black. Will have to give it a go. Greystuff (kneadatite grey) is pretty cool too, but needs milliput for filing.

Aaaaanyway, keep up the great work.

[MattGamer]

wow. i am amazed at the dedication and beautiful work
you have put into your models. this inspires me to work harder!

my favorite models of yours are Bamyasi, BRIEGEL and GARBALDY. :]

keep up the brilliant work! i am amazed! :D

[Timsalcove]

Your work is just breath-taking. Your website is really cool, too. I'm a total newb when it comes to this stuff - resins, sculpting, actually making Physical things. I think it's so awesome, however. Just bringing a mech into reality on a small scale...well, you can't get much cooler than that!

[Moosh]

Wow, incredible work. Tons of detail.

[Siamese Goldfish]

i think i'm going to have to go change my pants now...

awesome work.

[ZLuca]

Sorry for late reply Guys!
I'm so glad you appreciate my work I thank you so much!
Robinmitra, Sketceth,Kilmiatach, Timsalcove, Moosh:THANKS!

Holy cow, your stuff is insane :) awesome models ZLuca, im blown away by it, reminds me how coo it was making and painting models when I a kid...except your stuff is a million times better :) looking forward to more
Thanks AhChu, I remember those times! :)
Yes all started from models, but I was always disappointed by proportions, details, etcc...so I've slowly started to modify, to make them look more alike to illustrations and concept sketches..


ZLuca, I have no doubts that you're simply not human. Nope. You're a mechangeneer sent from some distant planet to tantalize us with the possibilities of what sentient machines and piloted vehicles might look like in the years to come.

It's very easy to lose sight of the creativity and imagination that exists in mechanical design in the face of alien creatures and fantastic beasts. But you bring it all together with such a keen attention to detail that rivals the work of the Japanese masters that dominated mecha design.

Simply stunning work as usual.

~KU

Thank you so much KU, matters a lot that from you!
I always loved very detailed models and how I saw japanese modellers working on a simple injection plastic kit for months to reach it and then turn out with a masterpiece. I've modify a lot of kits before being able to create something phisycal from my sketches. But also sketching something to make a model hasn't been easy at the beginning at all :)

Awesome stuff as usual man. Absolutely awesome!

Just wondering if you have had any issues with milliput poisoning?

I have read on sculpting forums that it tends to build up in the skin and cause nasty rashes after considerable use, though I dont use it as much as you!

I use green-grey a great deal, and often mix in kneadatite to get a slightly rubbery memory. Havent tried the black. Will have to give it a go. Greystuff (kneadatite grey) is pretty cool too, but needs milliput for filing.

Aaaaanyway, keep up the great work.

Thanks kingofdaveness!
No, sincerrly I didn't.
Once I've heard something like that, but I've never noticed problems on myself.
I've always had the habit to wash carefully my hands after mixing components and after modelled, being careful to throw away sand powder on my desk very often. Recently I use latex gloves too.
Btw, it's always an epoxy putty, so I suggest to handle with all precautions, like all that kind of putties.
I use just white and only recently the black one. I think they're the finest, the softer, the best...and permit the higher level of detail and engraving.


wow. i am amazed at the dedication and beautiful work
you have put into your models. this inspires me to work harder!

my favorite models of yours are Bamyasi, BRIEGEL and GARBALDY. :]

keep up the brilliant work! i am amazed! :D

Thanks MattGamer!
Bamyasi was my first (and incomplete) scratchbuildt model. It's a true beast, weights about 9 kg and is 60 cm tall.
After 10 months of hard work on it, I've started to feel something like vomit when I thought to the guy, so I've decided to do a break. It's already unbuildt on a big box and I didn't take off yet......


i think i'm going to have to go change my pants now...

awesome work.

:D :D
Thanks man!

Luca

[ZLuca]

Update...
This time it'll be focused on some details as propeller tanks, the add of some cables and rust.

Tamiya silver coat with brush
http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/8507/p7162467b.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/i/p7162467b.jpg/)
Salt and hairspray ready for use....quite boring isn'it??:)
http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/2356/p7162469.jpg (http://img406.imageshack.us/i/p7162469.jpg/)
Salt is done and black Tamiya is ready.....
http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/218/p7162474.jpg (http://img406.imageshack.us/i/p7162474.jpg/)
.....with airbrush....
http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/875/p7162475.jpg (http://img174.imageshack.us/i/p7162475.jpg/)
Glossy black coat.....
http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/6508/p7162480.jpg (http://img195.imageshack.us/i/p7162480.jpg/)
Glossy white one....
http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/830/p7162481.jpg (http://img193.imageshack.us/i/p7162481.jpg/)
Result:
http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/127/p7162486.jpg (http://img146.imageshack.us/i/p7162486.jpg/)
Then masking and slat&spray again....
http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/8399/p7162492.jpg (http://img146.imageshack.us/i/p7162492.jpg/)
Then red coat...
http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/536/p7162493.jpg (http://img196.imageshack.us/i/p7162493.jpg/)
...taking off masks....
http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/6271/p7162495.jpg (http://img196.imageshack.us/i/p7162495.jpg/)
Result:
http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/8240/p7162496.jpg (http://img213.imageshack.us/i/p7162496.jpg/)
Now, ready for weathering with some brown wash...
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/4783/p7162500.jpg (http://img139.imageshack.us/i/p7162500.jpg/)
...painting....
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/6073/p7162501.jpg (http://img139.imageshack.us/i/p7162501.jpg/)
....FINAL RESULT!
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/2905/p7162504.jpg (http://img139.imageshack.us/i/p7162504.jpg/)
..and finally lodged.
On the gun:
http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/8420/p7162509.jpg (http://img35.imageshack.us/i/p7162509.jpg/)
On the back of the body:
http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/1079/p7162513.jpg (http://img149.imageshack.us/i/p7162513.jpg/)
Some springs added on the front of the pelvis.....
http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/6185/p7172526.jpg (http://img200.imageshack.us/i/p7172526.jpg/)
http://img200.imageshack.us/img200/2626/p7172528.jpg (http://img200.imageshack.us/i/p7172528.jpg/)
.....cables on the neck.....
http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/923/p7172537.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/p7172537.jpg/)
http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/1295/p7172539.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/p7172539.jpg/)
...and springs on optics.
http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/5885/p7172542.jpg (http://img31.imageshack.us/i/p7172542.jpg/)
Black interiors to hilights contrasts:
http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/31/p7172543.jpg (http://img40.imageshack.us/i/p7172543.jpg/)
Finally starting with some MIG pigments for rust:
http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/6346/p7172532.jpg (http://img339.imageshack.us/i/p7172532.jpg/)
http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/9754/p7172535.jpg (http://img339.imageshack.us/i/p7172535.jpg/)

I hope you've appreciated this WIP.
Now, before final pics, some last touch, antennaes and some other cables.
Thanks a lot guys for viewing so many pics!
Luca

Present look:

[EvanCampbell]

This is beautiful work! I love this kind of intricate skill...amazing!

[FightingSeraph]

So, what are you planning on doing with that robot?

[ZLuca]

This is beautiful work! I love this kind of intricate skill...amazing!

Ehi Evan, you made my day happy. Thanks for your intervention, it's very important that said from you.
Thank you!

So, what are you planning on doing with that robot?

I'm not sure to understand the question...do you mean in a model way?
I don't know yet if I'll create a sort of base or diorama, after that I'll pass to another project for sure. I'll decide in the future.
Concerning work, it's already on sale, so at the best, I'll produce another run of it.

Thanks to all!
Luca

[El Jeremie]

I watch your website and your skill with airbrush and masking tape are amazing.
Did you do contest like euromilitaire or stuff like that ?

[ZLuca]

I watch your website and your skill with airbrush and masking tape are amazing.
Did you do contest like euromilitaire or stuff like that ?

Thanks Jerome!
Nothing special except a bit of experience with airbrush and masks..
yes I did.. nowI follow just a couple of events a year
Thanks
Luca

[Darkwulf's Talon]

Ha ha, I was looking at it and thinking

'Hmmm, wouldn't want to come across that on a dark night'

:-)

[ZLuca]

Hello Guys!
Finally Hecaton is finished!
Hope you like guys and thanks for viewing all this long WIP!

http://img193.imageshack.us/i/p7212635.jpg/

Pics:

W.I.P. gallery
http://kallamity.com/galleries/view/262

COMPLETED (last gallery on the bottom)
http://kallamity.com/products/view/HE001D

Thanks all!
Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello Guys!
Finally Hecaton is finished!
Hope you like guys and thanks for viewing all this long WIP!


Pics:

W.I.P. gallery
http://kallamity.com/galleries/view/262

COMPLETED (last gallery on the bottom)
http://kallamity.com/products/view/HE001D

Thanks all!
Luca

[El Jeremie]

Oh yeah !
Nice baby.

[robinmitra]

Looks badass! Looking forward to ur next model ;)

[KingUnicorn]

Is that The Kow on your site? The Kow Yokoyama of Ma.K fame? He's holding one of your kits like a little kid bearing a prized gift found under the Christmas tree.

That is a seal of approval that's as rare as they come.

And this latest piece finished up as tight as the others. I love the distressed paint applications along the armor. It looks used and abused and still ready to dish out more hell.

~KU

[giorgione]

this work is amazing - i love yours detail making and the full concept of it.

[frozenbean]

Dang, yo. That paint job is seriously awesome.

I really like the figures you've done on your site, I'd love to paint one of the kits you have on offer once I save up the cash!

What is your work area like?

[ZLuca]

Oh yeah !
Nice baby.

Thanks Jeremie! :D

Looks badass! Looking forward to ur next model ;)

Thanks robinmitra, I'll post very soon here for sure but...no legs, no arms...something totally different! :)

Is that The Kow on your site? The Kow Yokoyama of Ma.K fame? He's holding one of your kits like a little kid bearing a prized gift found under the Christmas tree.

That is a seal of approval that's as rare as they come.

And this latest piece finished up as tight as the others. I love the distressed paint applications along the armor. It looks used and abused and still ready to dish out more hell.

~KU

Yes, K.U. he is! We have a friend in common and we had exchange a model!
Anyway,,, that was one of the most happy day in my life... useless to say I'm a MAK fan! :)

My goal along the armour was to represent a sort of evory/bone stuff, because it would have been composed in a strange material and I've tried to imagine an half/mecha organism, in a world, BIOMECHANIC.
Thanks King, it counts very much said by you! :drinkup:


this work is amazing - i love yours detail making and the full concept of it.

Thanks giorgione! Very happy you appreciated the concept work too!


Dang, yo. That paint job is seriously awesome.

I really like the figures you've done on your site, I'd love to paint one of the kits you have on offer once I save up the cash!

What is your work area like?

Glad you liked paint job! It's the last-difficult process to make plausibly a model.
If you need something, I'm here to help you !
Let me know!

Thanks guys!
It was my first CA model completed with your company, and I'm so honoured about that!
thanks all! :D
Luca

[TitusCrow]

I really love your stuff, totally outside what I think of when I think of sculpture and that is great :) I get the feeling this model painting thing isn’t new to you either!
As much as I love your sculpture / model making I totally LOVE your paintwork on them, it’s a terrible pet hate of mine to see a great sculptor who then does a shoddy job on the painting of it, because it’s outside his area. I definitely think a guide on how to paint models/ sculpture to a very high standard would be fantastic and many people would get a lot out of it.

Interestingly enough there has been far more written on this subject in the realm of hobby / gaming miniature painting, than has been attempted in the professional art sphere. If anyone would like to see some great examples of fantastic model painting, perhaps Google the golden demon competition entry’s of past years.

[kopics]

Buddy!
Wow! You do have surprised me! Great JOB!!
I think that I now will have more to learn from your art work! :yum:
Thanks for your sharing!

[ZLuca]

I really love your stuff, totally outside what I think of when I think of sculpture and that is great :) I get the feeling this model painting thing isn’t new to you either!
As much as I love your sculpture / model making I totally LOVE your paintwork on them, it’s a terrible pet hate of mine to see a great sculptor who then does a shoddy job on the painting of it, because it’s outside his area. I definitely think a guide on how to paint models/ sculpture to a very high standard would be fantastic and many people would get a lot out of it.

Interestingly enough there has been far more written on this subject in the realm of hobby / gaming miniature painting, than has been attempted in the professional art sphere. If anyone would like to see some great examples of fantastic model painting, perhaps Google the golden demon competition entry’s of past years.

Thank you very much Titus for your congrats.
My goal with this stuff, maybe as someone else is doing, is to try to introduce some "art" concepts in this kind of stuff.
There's many people here that make AWESOME sculptures/models and that is doing that for themselves, without thinking to the market (at least not allways, because The Market is quite our new God :) ) or just buisiness.
I've passed last 10 years to try to improve my skills to finally be able to make in 3D what my head thinks or imagine.
It's difficult that just an idea could interest many people or that a model that isn't in a famous series like Gundam or Mak or Marvel, etc.... could sell well, but I'm trying. Seeing some people here that liked my stuff encourages me to go on and that's the reason I'm so happy to have taken courage to post my work here.
Concernin painting, well.....it's the most difficult thing, as you've rightly have noticed. Too often some awesome projects are "damaged" by an inappropriate paint work, that's why many people in modelling scene (also traditional modelling) give copies to paint to someone else. That's good too, but when I imagine a new subject, I try to imagine it finished and painted. Also in the meantime I'm making master pattern, this fact usually happens and I can't wait to paint a copy!
Thanks for your reflections
Luca


Buddy!
Wow! You do have surprised me! Great JOB!!
I think that I now will have more to learn from your art work! :yum:
Thanks for your sharing!

Oh, thanks and I have more to learn from other's art too!

Thanks all!
Luca

In next days I'll post my new project, I hope you'll like this one too!

[dreamsorcerer]

OMG my friend!! Youa re one talented git!!! You got skiiiiills!!! My eyes are hurting from staring at the screen!

[Mr--Jack]

just . . . wow.
Quite frankly, the mind boggles. The amount of detail in these models is stunning, and you're certainly right about the painting, it's fantastic to see that you can follow a project through right to such an enormously high level of finish.
I'm not far off moving, but once I'm settled I definitely think I'm gonna have to snap up one of your kits, though the challenge of painting one of them is daunting to say the least, especially after looking at the quality with which you've finished yours.

Enormously inspirational work! and I'm looking forwards to seeing new stuff :D

[FightingSeraph]

Dude, I'd like to see more of your designs. Plus, A lot of people could learn something from you.

[ZLuca]

OMG my friend!! Youa re one talented git!!! You got skiiiiills!!! My eyes are hurting from staring at the screen!

Thanks so much dreamsorcerer ! Said by a japanese guy made me very happy!

just . . . wow.
Quite frankly, the mind boggles. The amount of detail in these models is stunning, and you're certainly right about the painting, it's fantastic to see that you can follow a project through right to such an enormously high level of finish.
I'm not far off moving, but once I'm settled I definitely think I'm gonna have to snap up one of your kits, though the challenge of painting one of them is daunting to say the least, especially after looking at the quality with which you've finished yours.

Enormously inspirational work! and I'm looking forwards to seeing new stuff :D

Yes...details...good point ! I've always noticed the lack of details in models, except some awesome exemples, I'm trying to offer a very detailed models even if they're harder to paint.
BtW, thanks so much, I'm glad you liked them!


Dude, I'd like to see more of your designs. Plus, A lot of people could learn something from you.

Thanks FightingSeraph, I'm preparing a new model, I'll update the thread very soon, sorry, but I'm so busy recently and I have to find a good moment to post new creation in the best way with good pics, etc...
BtW, thanks so much for the interest man!

Thanks all again!
Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello guys!
This time I'm back with a different subject, as previously announced.
No legs, no arms, just an intricate flying sytem: a starship.
Iguana, that's the name, is a project I'm proceeding with a friend of mine, Alberto Longo. He's a great modeller, painter and engineer, in fact he buidt up a milling machine with his own hands!!
Anyway, the idea was to create an interesting starhip design to celebrate the machine, the challenge was to work just through e-mails because we live far. The work was to translate sketches and ideas in 3D modelling and after almost an year we finally had a final base design. I was amazed on how good the milled parts were when I've received them in the mail box, and I've started immediately to build up the master pattern.
The interesting thing in this project is that I had to sculpt details and minor shapes manually, so this starship is a true mix of hand and computer work.
Now Iguana is 75% fibished.
I won't bore you showing all passages, that could take too many pages of the forum, but if you're interested, all is reported in the galleries on my site:
http://kallamity.com/products/view/IG-prog1

Now, some of the latest pics!

Thanks all for viewing
Luca

[robinmitra]

Awesome! I love starships! Go man go :rocker:

[destinyapocalypse]

yeah dude you rock ! ilove your jobss

[The Dark Power]

These are so cool, thanks for sharing! You've made me want to go and make robots now! ;0)

[dreamsorcerer]

Dude, I have to say it again your work.. it's so amazing, new and fresh! Well done my friend, you are truly inspiring to me!

[Camara]

Holly shit!The detail level is insane!!

[The_Flying_Dutchman]

Bloody brilliant, love the intricacy and the organic qualities.

[CENOBITE]

Beautiful stuff! Whatever world your mechs inhabit, I want to live there! Truly you are caring on the fine tradition of Kow Yokoyama and Makoto Kobayashi! Bookmarked your website and will keep my eyes on this thread... ;)

[BaliBangBangBoom2]

oh my god! that is just unbelievable...
crazy cool mate!

[hayashiox]

I'm just curious
usually how long would it take make each of the ship or robots?
What are the material cost?

[ZLuca]

Sorry guys
I've been quite busy... :(

Awesome! I love starships! Go man go :rocker:

Thanks, I'm finishing another part: WINGS! As soon as I'vecompleted, I'll post here immediately!:)

yeah dude you rock ! ilove your jobss

THANK YOU!:drinkup:

These are so cool, thanks for sharing! You've made me want to go and make robots now! ;0)

Thanks to you! Make them! It's funny, but you guys are making me want to make characters! :)


Dude, I have to say it again your work.. it's so amazing, new and fresh! Well done my friend, you are truly inspiring to me!

Thanks Dreamsorcerer! I hope it's fresh, and original, it's one of the goals of mine and Alb. I'm glad to read this congrat!

Holly shit!The detail level is insane!!

Thanks! Yes, I'm insane of details!:)

Bloody brilliant, love the intricacy and the organic qualities.

Thanks, I'm glad you like that intricacy, I hope I'll be able to paint a copy soon, it would be funny to paint all details. Really can't wait.....


Beautiful stuff! Whatever world your mechs inhabit, I want to live there! Truly you are caring on the fine tradition of Kow Yokoyama and Makoto Kobayashi! Bookmarked your website and will keep my eyes on this thread... ;)

Thanks Cenobite!
It seems you're practice about those mastrer's work! Yes, They has been my main inspiration, Kow, Makoto, Takeyuki Takeya, Mamoru Nagano, and also Bilal, Moebius, Giger, and many many others!
Thanks for your congrat, I'm glad you liked my mech's world!

oh my god! that is just unbelievable...
crazy cool mate!

Thanks! Happy you liked! :)


I'm just curious
usually how long would it take make each of the ship or robots?
What are the material cost?

It depends on the kind of subject and its complexity/dimensions. Generally from 3 months to 9 months-1 year, anyway....some time needed...
The most expensive cost is cyanoacrilcate, I literally eat it in this kind of works ! :)

Thanks all guys for your comments!
I'm posting new stuff in next days!
Luca

[1 Above]

I'm taking 3d modeling at college right now and I gotta say, you have inspired me even more.

thank you, your work is phenomenal.

[nelson x]

Wow, tis piece is amazing. Nice work :)

[ZLuca]

Thanks 1Above and Nelson X, I'm happy you've appreciated the work on this ship!

Let's go on:
Just finished wings, another part of the body, raffineries and some details here and there.
Some parts like sort of small wings (sensors), EWAC systems on the wings and turrets under them will be optional in the kit.

I must do yet:
-Tail
-Engines
-Turret
-Refining again many parts :sick: :sick:
Anyway, that is probably last WIP update before pattern is finished.

MORE PICS (As usual, last gallery on the bottom):
http://kallamity.com/products/view/IG-prog1

I hope you enjoy!

Thanks for viewing :D
Luca
p.s. I'll be on vacation since tomorrow, so see you next week! :razz: :razz:


ENGINES UNDER WINGS
http://img200.imageshack.us/i/p8242880.jpg/
http://img33.imageshack.us/i/p8242882.jpg/
http://img33.imageshack.us/i/p8242883.jpg/
http://img15.imageshack.us/i/p8272889.jpg/

http://img15.imageshack.us/i/p8272885.jpg/
http://img15.imageshack.us/i/p8272886.jpg/
http://img405.imageshack.us/i/p8272891.jpg/
http://img198.imageshack.us/i/p8272892.jpg/
http://img198.imageshack.us/i/p8272897.jpg/
http://img214.imageshack.us/i/p8272899.jpg/
http://img199.imageshack.us/i/p8282913.jpg/
http://img214.imageshack.us/i/p8282911.jpg/
RAFFINERIES
http://img199.imageshack.us/i/p8292942.jpg/
http://img198.imageshack.us/i/p8303005.jpg/

EWAC SYSTEMS (optional)
http://img198.imageshack.us/i/p8302956.jpg/
http://img269.imageshack.us/i/p8302957.jpg/
http://img86.imageshack.us/i/p8302962.jpg/
http://img86.imageshack.us/i/p8302963.jpg/
http://img269.imageshack.us/i/p8302968.jpg/
http://img269.imageshack.us/i/p8302975.jpg/
http://img198.imageshack.us/i/p8302988.jpg/
http://img199.imageshack.us/i/p8303007.jpg/

Turret under wings (optional)
http://img56.imageshack.us/i/p8302987.jpg/

http://img53.imageshack.us/i/p8302997.jpg/


Full view:
http://img53.imageshack.us/i/p8302991.jpg/

http://img402.imageshack.us/i/p8302993.jpg/
http://img402.imageshack.us/i/p8302994.jpg/

http://img402.imageshack.us/i/p8302995.jpg/
http://img194.imageshack.us/i/p8303019.jpg/

http://img194.imageshack.us/i/p8303021.jpg/

I hope you like guys!:overhere:
Luca

[semoet]

very very great mecha u have....speachless

[troyboy]

Wow! Amazing work ZLuca!

[mrhugecojones]

For a while I was speachless, now I catched my breath back and can finally speak, you are awesome!

I love to build scale models and this is something I love to do, seing your work inspires me deeply.

Keep on the good work!

Yours trully

Andres

[ijacobs9]

You are a true inspiration ZLuca!

Salute! :yayca:

[rubay]

wowwwwwwwwwwwwwwww coollll men......

[mousek]

brutal good things ! Good luck on progress!

[weareblind]

I'm totally stunned in front of your giant mechs. My wallet will be brutalized soon...

[tiger76]

Very nice work, good luck

[El Jeremie]

C'mon man, it's time for an update !

[ZLuca]

C'mon man, it's time for an update !

:D
Sorry guys, I'm so busy recently, really....
Starship is going to be finished, I'll be able to post new pics next week I hope!
Thanks all for watching the thread, there will be more relaxing moments for sure! :)
z

[Diam]

MY GOD!!this stuff is too cool to be real ^^ !!!
I saw your homepage a while ago.At that time i was searching a mecha garage kit.Seeing the stuff on your site is incredible!!
For now i cannot afford your work ( i´m a poor student :D ) but in the near future one of your great mecha is going to grace my working desk!!
Thanks a lot for the WIP !
I love your stuff!! So ,keep at it :) !

kind regards

[ZLuca]

Thanks all guys!
Sorry for the absence recently. Like I told on previous post I'm very busy.
I'm preparing stuff for a Con here in Italy (if you are interested in Lucca Comics & Games) and working on some commission works.
I'm finishing Iguana starship right now, so I think I'll be able to post all new and final pics hopefully next week.
Thanks for support guys!
See you soon
Luca

[TitusCrow]

keep up the great work man! I cant wait to see anything else you put out there.

[lilalex]

... I won't bore you showing all passages, that could take too many pages of the forum, but if you're interested, all is report...

Are you kidding? There's nothing boring about your w.i.p.s; every little bit you share is informative, a look into your creative process, and really is appreciated. My only request would be that you post more! :P

We know you're busy - so Thanks for posting what you do, ZL; and I'm always looking forward to your updates.

Rock on! :bow:
la

[Maya_The_Bee]

amazing detail, texture and proportional flow. mind blowing really.. thanks for sharing.all the best

[thx217]

Fantastic works! Beautiful!

Have you considered to replicate the mecha suit in District 9? You can definitely nail it down!

[ZLuca]

Thanks all!:)

Fantastic works! Beautiful!

Have you considered to replicate the mecha suit in District 9? You can definitely nail it down!

Yes, I did. But I'm making just original models, I'd like very much, I love that concept.....but just with official commission, I'd like to avoid copyright mistakes....:)
Thanks
Luca

[ZLuca]

Starship IGUANA COMPLETED!!:rocker:

Finally also this long project finished! She lacks some intervention of micro-refining on details, but overall is 100%done.

Now I'll have to think to a support base and probably a damn' small little mecha to put on launch bridge.

Thanks guys for finding interest on this long WIP too, again all my respect!

Hope you like...
Luca


http://img194.imageshack.us/i/pa094065.jpg/
http://img194.imageshack.us/i/pa094066.jpg/
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/pa094067.jpg/
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/pa094069.jpg/
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/pa094070.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094071f.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094072.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094074.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094076.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094078.jpg/
http://img64.imageshack.us/i/pa094083.jpg/
http://img64.imageshack.us/i/pa094084.jpg/

[takeya00]

Starship IGUANA COMPLETED!!:rocker:

Finally also this long project finished! She lacks some intervention of micro-refining on details, but overall is 100%done.

Now I'll have to think to a support base and probably a damn' small little mecha to put on launch bridge.

Thanks guys for finding interest on this long WIP too, again all my respect!

Hope you like...
Luca


http://img194.imageshack.us/i/pa094065.jpg/
http://img194.imageshack.us/i/pa094066.jpg/
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/pa094067.jpg/
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/pa094069.jpg/
http://img18.imageshack.us/i/pa094070.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094071f.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094072.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094074.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094076.jpg/
http://img11.imageshack.us/i/pa094078.jpg/
http://img64.imageshack.us/i/pa094083.jpg/
http://img64.imageshack.us/i/pa094084.jpg/

I would like to check if this "Bamyasi" will go into production? ?
http://kallamity.com/pics/products/BAMYASI/P1010010-copia.jpg

[ZLuca]

I would like to check if this "Bamyasi" will go into production? ?
http://kallamity.com/pics/products/BAMYASI/P1010010-copia.jpg

No, sorry Takeya San, not yet. I've close parts in a box 9 years ago, and never took them out yet :(
It's too enormous to go on with it and it would be so expensive, I doubt someone could be interested..

Anyway, a day I'll finish it, that's sure.

Thank you, so glad about your interest in my stuff!
:sungod:
z

[takeya00]

No, sorry Takeya San, not yet. I've close parts in a box 9 years ago, and never took them out yet :(
It's too enormous to go on with it and it would be so expensive, I doubt someone could be interested..

Anyway, a day I'll finish it, that's sure.

Thank you, so glad about your interest in my stuff!
:sungod:
z

oh! I am very disappointed. T_T
But anyway to keep a good work. ^^

[ZLuca]

Oh, please no disappointment for you! I'll re-start working on it very soon!!! :)
Luca

[takeya00]

Oh, please no disappointment for you! I'll re-start working on it very soon!!! :)
Luca

Want to quickly see your new works.^^

[cout<mecha]

Would LUUUV to see more of this stuff happening. I want to get bac to model kits someday.(sigh)

[robinmitra]

Hye Luca..great to see your space ship finished! Are you going to paint it?

[ZLuca]

Want to quickly see your new works.^^

Just on Bamyasi or something else too? :)

Thanks cout<mecha. I'd love too :D

Thanks Robinmitra. Not exactly. I'll ship this pattern to caster and when I'll receive earlier copy I'll paint one immediately. I can't wait...but it will take some months for sure.

Luca

[dreamsorcerer]

Did I say that you're a genius? Well, you're a bloody genius!

[dreamsorcerer]

.. in fact you're officially one of my heroes, the 'Mecha Master Dude'

[aefx]

Did I say that you're a genius? Well, you're a bloody genius! I have to agree, also I'm incredibly grateful that you shared your work on here. It's really inspiring to go through this thread and see these amazing creations come to life.

[ZLuca]

.. in fact you're officially one of my heroes, the 'Mecha Master Dude'

Thanks man, really appreciated said by you! :)

I have to agree, also I'm incredibly grateful that you shared your work on here. It's really inspiring to go through this thread and see these amazing creations come to life.

Thanks aefx, my pleasure! :)

I'll be very busy untill November guys, so please forgive me if I won't be so active now. I'll post new stuff next month!

Thanks to all
Luca

[TeaMonster]

.. in fact you're officially one of my heroes, the 'Mecha Master Dude'

I second that!

[[houn]]

Your works are amazing, really well made. Hope to see a lot of it in the future!!!

[ZLuca]

Hello Guys
it's longtime I don't post anything here (and out here :) ), as I told you I've been so busy!

Changing a bit previous mecha resin kits painting arguments, this time I'd like to share with you a completely different kind of work.
This job were commissioned by italian WIRED magazine a September Monday and had to be finished in a Week. So Sunday after I was boxing this.

It's created by random parts I had in my lab, 3 broken beside lamps, transistors, springs, car light bulbs, screws, furniture's details.....everything I found that was right in my opinion.

Wired mag stuff was looking for a spider that could keep on his body a belljar with a sprout plant inside. I had measures of the belljar, but I never saw that. So I've buildt the spider without the bell in my hands, and that has been the most difficult thing.

The idea I had was to represent one of many iron.steampunk spider going around a new planet planting those sprouts on the ground to give life on a barren planet. In truth the article speaks about something different, but I liked more that idea :) .

In conclusion, has been a very funny sculpture to make!

More pics here: http://kallamity.com/galleries/view/274

I hope you like guys!

[oil]

Great work, every time XD

[El Jeremie]

Yeah, that's good.

[hauke3000]

Really awesome.

[Tweeak86]

This work is nothing short of absolutely amazing and endlessly inspirational. I would love to buy one of your models once I can save up a little extra cash. Until then my wife is just going to have to suffer me tearing apart old VCR's, printers and radios to try and learn to do this myself. :) Thank you for sharing your unbelievably incredible creations!

[ZLuca]

Oil, El Geremie, Hauke Thanks so much guys!

This work is nothing short of absolutely amazing and endlessly inspirational. I would love to buy one of your models once I can save up a little extra cash. Until then my wife is just going to have to suffer me tearing apart old VCR's, printers and radios to try and learn to do this myself. :) Thank you for sharing your unbelievably incredible creations!

thank you so much Tweeak, for all you need, just contact me!
I hope you'll have fun with all those parts, show us what you'll do with them! :)
Thank you, it's my pleasure!
Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello guys
this time I'd like to share with you something different from my usual stuff, a sculpture portraying one of main characters in Schnabelgun tales (just a preview available right now) dressed in a combat suit.
I'm a bit scared to show this kind of stuff here, but I have to say you guys inspired me so much that I've finally decided to start this project. I've waited to begin this character many months and now that I have a bit more spare time I thought that was the right moment. I hope you'll give suggestions and advices to me, I'm very interested to learn more by such artists like you.

My main inspiration was Dune's Stillsuit, but "a bit" more powered exoskeleton for space use.
And also GojulasPrime's awesome pilot : http://creative-beast.com/?page_id=106&album=5&gallery=13
For this sculpture I've used Super-sculpey.
I have to create right hand, helmet, head and a bag on right hand yet.

More pics: http://kallamity.com/products/view/MerzFig

Hope you enjoy and all comments and critics are welcome! :)
Luca

[Toobs]

Amazing technical insight. Ever tried an organic creature with parts mecha? I know it sounds cliche, but I'm sure you could do some incredible stuff with that. Keep it up, looks like u love this ;)

[Gaffanon]

AMAZING WORK. man I am so impressed in the attention to detail.

[ZLuca]

Amazing technical insight. Ever tried an organic creature with parts mecha? I know it sounds cliche, but I'm sure you could do some incredible stuff with that. Keep it up, looks like u love this ;)

Thanks Toobs, yes I've tried sometimes ago, something like true bones covered by a hell of cables, wires, tubes and mechanics. Unfortunately was a commissioned work without pictures :(

AMAZING WORK. man I am so impressed in the attention to detail.

Thanks Gaffanon, I'm glad you like. The attention to details is the fun to me :), anyway, I'm refining them a bit more right now.

z

[aefx]

Yay, you're back!

I think it's great you've decided to post other forms of your work. Looking forward to seeing the pilot finished :)

[bicho]

Such an amazing machines. No doubt, you´re a great artist and i think it´s great you trie with another themes.

By the way i´m sure you already know it but if not, you must see the work of this guys at: http://www.threeaonline.com/.

[ZLuca]

Yay, you're back!

I think it's great you've decided to post other forms of your work. Looking forward to seeing the pilot finished :)

I'm completing the suit, in a few hours maybe I'll post some new pics. Thanks aefx!

Such an amazing machines. No doubt, you´re a great artist and i think it´s great you trie with another themes.

By the way i´m sure you already know it but if not, you must see the work of this guys at: http://www.threeaonline.com/.

Thanks so much bicho, glad you like the stuff.
I know Ashley's work very well, it's one of my favourite ever!

Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello guys , update!

the helmet is now sketched up, I've sanded all the body, scribed it, a primer coat over that and finally, re-sanded.
Today I've started also right hand.

That gatling is just to watch proportions.....maybe I'll keep maybe not....I'll see :sarcasm:

I hope you like! :)

As usual more pics at the page: http://kallamity.com/products/view/MerzFig
Luca

[Waipunga]

Yeah I so Like It Luca. When are you going to show us it finished?

[ZLuca]

Thank you Waipunga!
It will be net production, so I MUST finish very soon.
Sorry for silence in last months, been busy to complete starship and many other projects. I'll post pictures of new Iguana starship painted in next days.
In the meantime, if you want, let's my last SchnabelGun commission work completed, I hope you like guys!
http://kallamity.com/products/view/WETASCHNAB
(gallery pics below)

Later,

Luca

[Waipunga]

Awesome work as always Luca! Cheers S

[Pavel Sokov]

That is just wow, amazing is an under statement.
I have no idea how you manage to sculpt such smooth mechanical stuff out of clay.
Honestly I had to sculpt a hockey mask on my goalie statue, and that challenged me. You on the other hand are doing things I can only dream of

[SU7V80KKT]

Awsome 10/10!

[Theodoric_Sacron]

just perfect... nice job. The paint is awesome.

[ZLuca]

Awesome work as always Luca! Cheers S

Oh, thank you bro! Nice to see you here too! Congrats for your fantastic Besra!


That is just wow, amazing is an under statement.
I have no idea how you manage to sculpt such smooth mechanical stuff out of clay.
Honestly I had to sculpt a hockey mask on my goalie statue, and that challenged me. You on the other hand are doing things I can only dream of

Thank you, I'm glad you like this stuff.
Some techniques are the same to model some figure details, some other are near the "kitbash" technique, some other again are real sculpture from hard materials. It depends on what you have to do, trying to join the best original result in the quickest way.
For exemple, an hockey mask could be made in different ways, modelling clay or some epoxy putties, modelling putty on an existing shape (like a spoon for exemple), or drilling out a true plastic spoon part. It depends on the scale and the result you have to join.


SU7V80KKT and Theodoric, Thanks so much guys!

Luca

[ZLuca]

A little video teaser of the iguana starship:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d272rz7rQpE

The challenge was to make a very small animation with just an image and some Photoshop layers.
Nothing 3D, jus 2D, I hope you equally like :)

Luca

[aadi]

really awesome work you have done best of luck and take cr

[ZLuca]

really awesome work you have done best of luck and take cr

Thanks aadi!

Iguana is finally finished!
Give a look here (thrird gallery on the bottom)
http://www.kallamity.com/products/view/IG-prog1

Thanks for viewing!

Luca

[Waipunga]

That rocks my World Luca! Fantastic stuff Brother.

[ZLuca]

That rocks my World Luca! Fantastic stuff Brother.

Thank you my friend!
Luca

[TheCosmicKid]

Wow...that is some fantastic stuff right there! Wow!

[ZLuca]

Thank you!!
z

[Deon]

Wow - your work is absolutely incredible!
I never really thought I would be interested in sculpting anything other than figures, but you have inspired me, sir!!!

[ZLuca]

Wow - your work is absolutely incredible!
I never really thought I would be interested in sculpting anything other than figures, but you have inspired me, sir!!!

Thanks Deon,

Watching your works I've seen you're skilled in mecha-design, so Try it! :)

Luca

[freakinacage]

some epic stuff there. shame it's so big and therefore expensive! mental detail work

[ZLuca]

Thanks freakincage!
Yes, quite expensive, but not so much since mould rubbers, resin and casting process are very expensive. In addiction, there are a lot of parts (90), several are big and then decals and metal thrusters.
All these aspects increase a lot the price, but give a lot esteem to the kit.
Anyway, glad you appreciate! :)

Luca

[xbert]

amazing.

[ZLuca]

Hi all guys.
Let's my 2 new project.

First one is a 1/72 Briegel.

I've decided to create another master patter of the Briegel ( http://www.kallamity.com/products/view/BR001 ), my favourite and personal mecha in my production.

There are many reasons about this choice:
1-to refresh the mecha-design of this subject
2-to make a smaller kit of the same subject
3-changing proportions of the parts, giving a more aggressive and sexy look, keeping legs longer compared to previous one.
4-creating a lot of accesories like weapons and other things (maybe 2 kits, one with just the basic mecha and weapons and accessories in the other one.

As I told Legs will be longer, trying to keep main mecha characteristics, but restyling Briegel to give a thinner look to it.
The leg is 89% finished, some parts aren't finished yet (like hip joint), lack of cables and several refinements.



Pics: http://www.kallamity.com/products/view/BRIG.II



Second one is another ship, the BRIEGELCARGO, in 1/1500 scale, the same of the Iguana.

http://img207.imageshack.us/i/sgcomic1englishunitedsm.jpg/

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/104/sc3d.jpg (http://img171.imageshack.us/i/sc3d.jpg/)

This will be a cargo where Briegel units are loaded in the main body, with launch pads on 2 front "beaks".
I have to decide if there will be also SchnabelGuns (that will mean I'll have to sculpt it in smaller scale again :sick: :) )

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/7463/p3167236copia.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/p3167236copia.jpg/)

WIP pics very soon not so many revelation today! :lol:


I hope you'll find interesting!
Luca

[Waipunga]

Holy Shit! You have outrageous skills Luca. This is going to be epic. Very very cool!

[jaroldsng]

poseable legs are epic! look forward to more updates!

[NoskiLL1343]

it's incredible, awesome work... clap... clap... clap



kris

[ZLuca]

Holy Shit! You have outrageous skills Luca. This is going to be epic. Very very cool!

Thanks bro! Glad you liked it!

poseable legs are epic! look forward to more updates!

Thanks! I hope I'll be able to go on showing somthing new next month!
Next part------------>the pelvis!



it's incredible, awesome work... clap... clap... clap



kris

Thanks!

Luca

[Pavel Sokov]

I actualy can't understand how you do the things you do.
How do you sculpt these perfectly smooth and angle-correct/symmetrical parts?
And then you paint them so perfectly with amazingly sharp/even/fantastic words and letters.

I made a hockey goaly statue and had a ton of trouble painting "29" on him.

[Bongsplat]

just awesome stuff going on on in here luca:)

Really fantastic work, and very inspirational,i really cant say enough good things ..just fantastic.

:)

[jdeegz]

do you have an books / starting material where we can learn how to sculpt with epoxy and other materials needed to build mechas? Im still stuck in the super sculpy world.

[Collin Smiley]

your work just made my day

[[houn]]

Really amazing as always!

Come sempre stupendo, non ci sono parole!

[Cryminysakes]

Love your weathered paint jobs - just superb. And the precision of your sculpts is pretty amazing man, thanks for sharing and cant wait for more.

[NeecHMonkeY]

Hey Luca, hope you enjoyed your time in Tokyo, it was great hanging out with you again and a big congratulations on selling all your kits at Wonder Festival.

I hope you can make it back for the Winter version. :)

[ZLuca]

Hi all guys
Sorry for late reply but I just came back from Tokyo and after a week or so, I can finally go on with usual life again, sculpting, drawing, posting....... :)

So, I'll answer to old posts:


I actualy can't understand how you do the things you do.
How do you sculpt these perfectly smooth and angle-correct/symmetrical parts?
And then you paint them so perfectly with amazingly sharp/even/fantastic words and letters.

I made a hockey goaly statue and had a ton of trouble painting "29" on him.

Thanks so much Pavel.
Answering about the "how" isn't always easy. I think the most important thing is experience (almost 20 years), learning from mistakes, improving ideas and exercising with epoxy putties, plasticard and with more medias I can.
For symmetrical parts I usaually decide a point to start with, cutting 2 identical shapes in plasticard.
After that I lightly glue them together, starting to creates symmetrical parts on the left and on the right size.
It's very important to keep measurements while you add parts, but it's also very important to exercise your eye to discover mistakes and imperfections.
If you were wrong, take the part off and restart from the beginning.
This could be a generic reply, since EVERY parts need a different treatement, depending on the shape, measures and details you'll put on them in next steps.
To make smooth surface is very simple: again exercise and starting with a large-grained sandpaper untill very fine.
If surfaces you have to make must be flat, you could put sandpaper on a flat part to help your job. A lot of similar tools exist in the market, above all in Japan :steph:

A hockey statue would be another kind of challenge that could need a totally different way to approach on.



just awesome stuff going on on in here luca:)

Really fantastic work, and very inspirational,i really cant say enough good things ..just fantastic.

:)


Thanks so much and respect Bongsplat! really happy you like my useless toys :)

do you have an books / starting material where we can learn how to sculpt with epoxy and other materials needed to build mechas? Im still stuck in the super sculpy world.

Thanks to asking me this! No, I have no books yet in wich showing techniques, but hopefully there will be something soon, who knows?? :)
Super Sculpey isn't the best for "cold surfaces", like mechanical ones, maybe better for more physical subjects. Anyway, I think there's no limit and if you want to reproduce a mechanism in an artistic way, super sculpey could work perfectly. You have just to be patient and starting to detail something. Drawings and sketches always help!


your work just made my day

I'm happy about that!! :)



;2817082']Really amazing as always!

Come sempre stupendo, non ci sono parole!

Thanks! You seem a bit italian to me :)



Love your weathered paint jobs - just superb. And the precision of your sculpts is pretty amazing man, thanks for sharing and cant wait for more.

Thanks so much! Weathering is my addiction and rust my drug :)
I'd like to avoid weathering sometimes, but the problem is that after months of sculpting and basic painting, I usually start to have fun whan I begin to weather surfaces :batgirl:



Hey Luca, hope you enjoyed your time in Tokyo, it was great hanging out with you again and a big congratulations on selling all your kits at Wonder Festival.

I hope you can make it back for the Winter version. :)

Thanks man! Yes was so cool! I was erally impressed about the succes me too, but I think a 55% was caused by Linc!
I'll come back for sure in winter WF, I'm already reserving the flight !!
Thanks to you for inspiration I had watching your excellent stuff, I think in a 6 month you'll become better and so I'll try to avoid to show anything else haha :)! Really, good stuff man!

Thanks to all!

Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello guys
Sorry if I'm late with new model updates, I'll post something new very soon.
In the meantime, please give a look at last diorama I've finished.

This fantastic and original model, produced by Ankama and designed by Walter Pezzali ( http://futuristicmodelkit.blog135.fc2.com/?share=26896&index&mob=0 ) belongs to Futuristic Robot series.
Maybe you already heard about this series , is having a lot of success, expecially in Japan.
It was a lot of fun to build this model so I've decided to put this beautiful robot in a diorama, a strange diorama.
This could be considered a surrealist-street style scenario.
The idea was to represent an old school typical skate scene, where the man (I've been inspired from a real skater, Tom Penny http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EfeJvOCDF0 ) is watching the machine "skating" in the pool where rusted pipes are progressing everywhere.
The character is made in super sculpey, the sk8 in plasticard and real sandpaper for the grip and Milliput for accessories.
It was a free and fun build and I didn't care so much about proportions and other modelling rules :)
I hope you enjoy it!

Luca

http://kallamity.com/products/view/FuRo1
(second gallery for latest pics)

[[houn]]

Amazing work as usual Luca, really well done and funny..and as always good weathering!
Hope to reach your level one day :teeth:

[docdee]

sheer genius!! no amount of appreciation can do justice enough to your work...please post tutorials..how do you get ideas? your designs seem so technically correct!!

[sinnersaint007]

jaw droppin work. i have always thought that such work was machined. but you sir have the hands of a mecha god. superb work. and i am speechless. i dont know what to say. i have a question. How long did you train to do that? could i pick it up now? i am an artist and sculptin is my passion. i have been looking for pointers. is there a book on the how to's of making a mech? ever try your hand at putting out a book? i will buy it , and i am sure many many more fans will as well. i am headin over to your website and bookmarking it.

[sinnersaint007]

your explainations were indepth and informative. but its not enough. you have to write a book on how to make these beautiful mechs, others need to learn these techniques. i am hungry to learn sir. please tell us your goin to release a book, or a DVD series.

[ZLuca]

Sorry guys if I'm quite slowly to reply recently, work doesn't leave me so much time recently, anyway, soon or later I do :)


;2871846']Amazing work as usual Luca, really well done and funny..and as always good weathering!
Hope to reach your level one day :teeth:

Thanks houn!

sheer genius!! no amount of appreciation can do justice enough to your work...please post tutorials..how do you get ideas? your designs seem so technically correct!!

and

jaw droppin work. i have always thought that such work was machined. but you sir have the hands of a mecha god. superb work. and i am speechless. i dont know what to say. i have a question. How long did you train to do that? could i pick it up now? i am an artist and sculptin is my passion. i have been looking for pointers. is there a book on the how to's of making a mech? ever try your hand at putting out a book? i will buy it , and i am sure many many more fans will as well. i am headin over to your website and bookmarking it.


Thanks guys for the "hot" congratulations, I really appreciate that.

I build injection kits since 1990 (when I was 14) and suddenly I've start modifying kits I was able to find in that period. But I have to say I always had drawed and sculpted a lot.
Then I discovered resin kits, and since in that period models were very very badly casted, I've starte to understand what meant "epoxy putty".
Then I saw that was possible to scratchbuild parts like I saw in Japanese magazines.
I made 23 "The Five Star Stories " Mortar Headd (Mamoru Nagano masterpiece epic tale) modifying mostly all of them because I was looking to give that careful designer's details and shapes also on my models.
That was my training, 10 years passed to sketch modifications and entire mechanical parts, then reproduced in sculpture.

Concerning the book, well...I can say anything now, but maybe there will be some good news in 2011!!:yum:

Anyway, there's no book that will teach "how to make mechs" or everything else, that could be an help, but sorry if I sincererly repeat that just experience and mistakes will you teach "how to" do something.
If I would explain every single step of the creation, a book won't be enough!
And in addiction could be so boring...:)
Maybe a DVD could work, but with several fast shoots!:)


I hope you'll be patient enough to wait some months, maybe there will be some good surprises!

Thanks again guys!

Luca

[Collin Smiley]

Nice! I love the latest. The attention to detail is phenomenal. I love the tile work.

[Cbonner]

Good God man this is awesome. Just ne question though, How much free time do you have on your hands? it looks like that would take for ever to make.

[ZLuca]

Collin, thanks!


Good God man this is awesome. Just ne question though, How much free time do you have on your hands? it looks like that would take for ever to make.

Thanks!
Up to August I had the possibility to bring some work at my "real" work, since I was a keeper of a train station and I had a lot of free time there.
Now this is my work, as illustrator, concept designer and I sculpt patterns for factories. :)


Luca

[ZLuca]

Works on these 2 patterns are going on...slowly going on, 'cause of lack of time for personal projects.. :wacko:

1/72 scale BRIEGEL

Leg is almost finished and the pelvis is 50% done.

http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/7848/pb240203.jpg


Comparison with 1/35 model

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/8174/pb240219.jpg


WIP (new pics in first gallery): http://kallamity.com/products/view/BRIG.II


BRIEGELCARGO
Starting to see a general shape. Still lacks of main turret, engines and many other things .... :-\

http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/97/p3167239.jpg

http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/6505/p3167237.jpg

http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/7871/p3177266.jpg

http://img534.imageshack.us/img534/4131/p4087422.jpg


Complete WIP: http://kallamity.com/products/view/BriCarg01

Ciao!
z

[ZLuca]

Update:
Leg and Pelvis are finished. Lacks just some little refining works...

Leg:

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/5595/pc100383q.jpg

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2151/pc100384.jpg

Pelvis :

http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/5117/pc100385.jpg

http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/8455/pc100389.jpg

Leg & pelvis:

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/1395/pc100401.jpg

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/7649/pc100395.jpg


I really don't know when I'll be able to restart works on it, anyway I've joined first important goal, 50% DONE!! ^_^
I hope you like !

Galleries: http://kallamity.com/products/view/BRIG.II
Newest are earlier two, first with primed parts, second below 2nd pelvis progress

z

[cout<mecha]

You do some really awesome work in here. It's wonderful to be reminded of my old scale model kit building days! Looks like this one is almost finished.

[ZLuca]

You do some really awesome work in here. It's wonderful to be reminded of my old scale model kit building days! Looks like this one is almost finished.

Thanks so much cout<mecha. It's finished!! But just 50% finished.. lacks of chest/cockpit and legs..
final look should be something like that, but in smaller scale:

http://behance.vo.llnwd.net/profiles4/113793/projects/263294/1137931247413480.jpg


what kind of models did you build?

Luca

[semoet]

hmmm OUTSTANDING!! i wanted to know what material you use it for the final? its poly resin or what? thanks

[ZLuca]

Yes, it is polyurethan resin casted..on the whole process just casting is not my deal anyway.....
thaanks!

Luca

[Jasper_]

Your work is ridiculous man! Some of the most inspiring stuff on this website. I'd love to get started with this kind of thing, and your probably going to be my main inspiration!! Keep posting man I love it!!

[ZLuca]

Your work is ridiculous man! Some of the most inspiring stuff on this website. I'd love to get started with this kind of thing, and your probably going to be my main inspiration!! Keep posting man I love it!!

WoW, thanks for your appreciation man!
I've watched your website, and you rock!
Congrats for such beautiful stuff!

Yes, I'll go on to post here, I love this place !:)

Luca

[One Eyed Terror]

Great work. Very cool and inspiring. Thanks for all the photos.

[sith_fire30]

Thank you for posting such inspiring work - I am a FREAK when it comes to the amount of detail being created in your work - so much for the eye to see. Thanks again for sharing you talent with us!!!

[abcwarrior]

Totally mindblowing stuff ,such complex sculptures ,I love em !!

[ankitm]

Hi ZLuca, your work are mind boggling so much detail u have put on your sculpture is unbelievable. plsssss if possible post some tutorial on your work process from paper to sculpture will be very helpful n thx for posting such amazing work....

[cout<mecha]

That is some of the smoothest most original work I've seen in a long time that was not Die Caste. The details are as good as or superior to the old Nitto Kits with hundreds of tubes and metal wires to hook into the model. Supremely excellent work going on in here today to be sure. Id like to see some different frames of the legs and arms in different positions since you put so much work into those. Sil vous plait!

[ZLuca]

http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/97/81/93/34/92/9781933492841_500X500.jpg


Hello guys
maybe someone noticed that I was a little bit lazy recently...
Absolutely NO! :)
Design Studio Press http://www.designstudiopress.com/ in my opinion one of the best publisher in concept design and sci-fi a couple of years ago decided to publish my first (and I hope not last) book: ABAKAN 2288- Kallamity's world of mecha design part 1
It will be a 176 color pages, plenty of designs, illustrations, mock-ups, pictures, models, wips and a story.

IMPORTANT: I won't sale book directly, so, please don't ask me about discounts or shipments.
There are also already many sellers on the net who are accepting preorders (saving some bucks), like Amazon, Walmart, etc...

For who wants to meet me, I'll be in San Diego Comicon http://www.comic-con.org/cci/ to promote next October book launch (I'll sign Abakan posters there).

Infos:

ABAKAN 2288 signing
Design Studio Press booth N.1701

on Friday 22nd, 5-7 PM


Thanks guys and I hope you find these news interesting!

Luca

[red123456]

wow those are nice pieces. do you use a combination of polymer clay and epoxy?

[ciumirex]

Great work! Love it!

[ZLuca]

wow those are nice pieces. do you use a combination of polymer clay and epoxy?

Thanks! Mostly I use a combination of Epoxy putty and styrene pieces (from sheets) or differently-shaped section bars. I use also everything or everyday-use item I think could be cool to reproduce a shape or a detail.

Epoxy putty I use mostly:
http://www.milliput.com/home.htm
Styrene companies:
http://www.evergreenscalemodels.com/
http://www.plastruct.com/



Great work! Love it!

Thanks!


Luca

[ZLuca]

Design Studio Press published signing schedule, maybe you could be interested to meet some of their awesome artists

http://designstudiopress.blogspot.com/2011/07/thursday-july-21st-1pm-3pm-scott.html

I'll be in San Diego ComiCon for poster signing:
5-7 PM
DSP booth N.1701

If you'll be there, come to visit us!

Thanks

Luca

[JI7]

Hello KingUnicorn
Thanks, I'm glad you like my stuff.
Yes my approach is traditional sculpture, even if recently I'm interesting in 3D modelling too.
I usually don't discard any possibilities in art :).
I have to say I usually pass some months to finish a model, (9 months to finish Briegel-baby, in previous attached file),
I love working handly, adding details, modelling wet epoxy, cutting and shaping dry putty, etc... in one word : SCULPTING
In one of my latest project, Starship Iguana http://kallamity.com/products/view/IG-prog1 , I collaborated with a 3D artist, Alberto Longo.
I've started creating original concept with him, in the meantime he translated my sketches in 3D forms, and finally electronically-controlled milling machine made the parts, but as you can see in galleries below the page, I'm adding and sculpting details on the ship, because I like to mix medias.
I like also to sketch shapes improvising, that's why I find many answers in this way to work.
BtW, I don't exclude I'll make some models only in 3D, a day, I just hope to have such a skill

Effectively my idea was to show some sculpting techniques here, just wanted to be sure someone could be interested in this kind of stuff.

I love also to paint models, so I could open a thread very soon with progress of a subject from A to Z if you guys want.
Maybe on this monster, if you like:

http://kallamity.com/pics/products/HECATON/RESIN/P1010002.jpg

Thanks!
Luca

I am so jealous of your skills. I too do traditional sculpting but tend to favour monster/creatures - although I have been keen to design and sculpt a mecha unit for some time. I am wondering if you can elaborate on the materials and techniques you use in your sculpture - perhaps a tutorial video is something someone with your skills could do for the rest of us lesser sculptors. You mentioned epoxy, by this do you mean putty such as ProCreate or Magic Sculpt? Also, do you fabricate components and then assembly them or do you sculpt wet putty onto an armature, or do you use a combination of these methods? Keep on keeping on and hopefully we see more of your work and possibly a tutorial soon.

By the way, you can watch a short video of my recent project here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnoK8achekU

Let me know what you think.

Jeremy Ireland

[ZLuca]

I am so jealous of your skills. I too do traditional sculpting but tend to favour monster/creatures - although I have been keen to design and sculpt a mecha unit for some time. I am wondering if you can elaborate on the materials and techniques you use in your sculpture - perhaps a tutorial video is something someone with your skills could do for the rest of us lesser sculptors. You mentioned epoxy, by this do you mean putty such as ProCreate or Magic Sculpt? Also, do you fabricate components and then assembly them or do you sculpt wet putty onto an armature, or do you use a combination of these methods? Keep on keeping on and hopefully we see more of your work and possibly a tutorial soon.

By the way, you can watch a short video of my recent project here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnoK8achekU

Let me know what you think.

Jeremy Ireland

Sorry for late reply Jeremy
Concerning your questions:
-Before starting a sculpture I usually make several drawings of the whole shape, and during sculpting process I usually do the same going more deeply in the details.
Yes, happens very often that I have ideas while I'm sculpting, so sometimes I change my mind about details or parts I sketched on paper, changing design here and there.
-A tutorial is out at http://www.miniaturementor.com/painting_tutorials_sub.html
but it's just focused on building and painting/weathering some parts of my resin kits. I hope something else will be out soon!
-In the book that is coming out for Design Studio Press http://www.designstudiopress.com/
I show many WIP pictures and sculpting techniques.
(the book will be out in October, the name will be "ABAKAN 2288", already in preorder if someone is interested)
-Yes, for Epoxy I mean epoxy putty, I use Milliput white, the extra-fine type.
-"Also, do you fabricate components and then assembly them or do you sculpt wet putty onto an armature, or do you use a combination of these methods?" Hard to answer and very long explanation required. Please, look back on previous pages, I tried to explain techniques many times.
Anyway, it depends on the type and shape of the part I have to do.
-Yes, sometimes a combinations of methods, sometimes, just one, sometimes nor one neither the other :)
-Your sculpting technique is very good IMO. I'm not sure about the shape of the thing, maybe was not completed, but I liked very much how you made bones with pores and micro-details. Good stuff!

Luca

[mlavanish]

Awesome sculpts Luca. I love the details. I also really enjoy your painting style, and I'm glad to see you've put a tutorial together. Gonna have to go get it now. Cheers!

[ZLuca]

Awesome sculpts Luca. I love the details. I also really enjoy your painting style, and I'm glad to see you've put a tutorial together. Gonna have to go get it now. Cheers!

Thanks man!

z

[ZLuca]

Hello guys!
Longtimes I don't post anything, but I'm working as free-lance sculptor since July 2010 and Kallamity projects are getting a bit slow.

I have a good news I'd like to share with you anyway!
Design Studio Press http://www.designstudiopress.com/ (one of the best publisher in concept design) a couple of years ago accepted a project I had for a book.
This work took me almost 4 years of hard work and I'm so happy to say now that:

now ABAKAN 2288 (that's the title) become reality!
176 pages telling a story I wrote (even if I don't consider myself a writer at all) about a dark world in a future soon, the book is full of sketches, new concepts, illustrations, matte paintings, model pictures, W.I.P.s and technique explanations.

Now the book is on pre-order on DSP site!!
http://www.designstudiopress.com/new_site/book_pages/pics_ABAKAN2288/book_ABAKAN2288.html

Some people asked me about a sort of publication of my stuff here previously, so I hope you find interest on this news!!

Thanks guys!

Luca

[JI7]

I'm on the mailing list and awaiting the release of my copy (very excited). Any idea when this will be - I didn't see any release dates?

[ZLuca]

I'm on the mailing list and awaiting the release of my copy (very excited). Any idea when this will be - I didn't see any release dates?

Thanks so much! Officially it will be out in a 6 weeks, I think before Christmas...

Luca

[James Flynn]

Great website, I like your painting section. Who do you sell most of your paintings too?

[ZLuca]

Do you mean who sold my paintings?
Myself to private customers that order them or during some events, often happens that I do art-shows around here....

Thanks
Luca

[Pavel Sokov]

I just liked your page on facebook, great stuff!

[FightingSeraph]

I might have to buy a copy of your book when the time comes. With that said, I wouldn't mind to see you:
-Try your luck at a stop-motion cartoon.
-Your take on a few of my characters.

[ooHe0Eejem1]

You've got a great style there and I'm certain your influences are easily picked out based on your conceptual process. It's nice to see some traditional sculpting applied to the mecha genre given the rise of digital sculpting. This is a refreshing change and certainly work with a skill that's not to be ignored.http://www.bingertoday.info/huang4.jpg
http://www.bingertoday.info/huang3.jpg

[ZLuca]

I just liked your page on facebook, great stuff!

Thank you so much Pavel!

I might have to buy a copy of your book when the time comes. With that said, I wouldn't mind to see you:
-Try your luck at a stop-motion cartoon.
-Your take on a few of my characters.

Thanks Fighting Seraph, no plans to make cartoons yet, and which characters?



You've got a great style there and I'm certain your influences are easily picked out based on your conceptual process. It's nice to see some traditional sculpting applied to the mecha genre given the rise of digital sculpting. This is a refreshing change and certainly work with a skill that's not to be ignored.http://www.bingertoday.info/huang4.jpg
http://www.bingertoday.info/huang3.jpg

thanks for your appreciation. Yes, ideas are taken from drawings but also from everything else. I'll introduce my new subject in next post!
You're right and I think people are missing "old real-model stuff", instead of 3D. I love 3D and ZBrush, but I don't believe in just "one way"...

thanks guys

Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello guys!
Longtime I don't post anything new , my apologizes
Working for 3rd parties is not a good way to carry on personal projects :)

Finally I found a chance and some time to show my Kastor WIP.
This model will be produced by Industria Mechanika
http://industriamechanika.com/blog/2011/11/more-kastor-images/

There you can find also a good news!!
Scott Robertson (I was his partner at DSP Booth in Lucca Comics when Abakan was launched in last October) took some outdoor picture of the vehicle master with his IPhone. Then we choosed a good picture and then he immediately started to paint over it with his Wacom Intuous. The result is OUTSTANDING!! (obviously)
A couple of weeks ago Michael Fichtenmayer, owner of Industria Mechanika, told me that Ian McQue ( http://mcqueconcept.blogspot.com/ ) wanted to paint one him too and I was soo happy about that, he's another one of my favourite artists. 4 days ago I've received Ian's e-mail with his "view" of the Kastor in attachement. I was speechless, it was simply Wonderful!!!
Since I'd like to make my version too, Michael had the idea to launch an illustration contest on this subject and I've accepted immediately!
So, guys, if someone is interested, please, go to Industria Mechanika and follow the new!
This contest is for fun purpose but the winner's illustration will be printed like other 3 paintings and will be included in the box of the kit, in addiction the winner will receive a FREE copy of Kastor !!!!!


:right:Details and illustrations here: :left:
http://industriamechanika.com/blog/2011/11/kastor-illustration-contest/


Now, some words about the model.
This hovertank will fit the world of Abakan 2288, the book N.1 I've made and that is published by Design Studio Press http://www.designstudiopress.com/new_site/book_pages/pics_ABAKAN2288/book_ABAKAN2288.html
I'm starting to make new material for next book already and this will go there for sure!
I can't name it "steampunk" actually, it's more "dieselpunk", even if the right definition could be "gas-punk" since technology of the story goes with gas.
I've allways been waiting the moment to start a model of that kind, just needed the right inspiration.
I think it came to me when I've broke my old Trust PC speakers....throat them?? Naaa ..... :lol:

http://img52.imageshack.us/img52/2746/p7083037.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/52/p7083037.jpg/)
This build were really funny and unusual, and one more time.....it's BEAUTIFUL to have not to deal with arms and legs :lol:
I hope you enjoy if I post the WIP here. I hope you could find some interest on it!


So, let's start!! With some plasticard and other donor parts I've started to make some drawing about transforming the main speaker shield in something different

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/7357/p7083039.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/257/p7083039.jpg/)

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/9403/p7083041.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/16/p7083041.jpg/)

then, with a part from an old hair clippers I've started the front-radiator

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/8452/p7083043.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/10/p7083043.jpg/)

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/3350/p7083044.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/265/p7083044.jpg/)

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/6338/p7113084.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/15/p7113084.jpg/)

Now it was time to shape the shield, so I've add some Milliput to reach the right look

http://img802.imageshack.us/img802/9272/p7093057.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/802/p7093057.jpg/)

and then obviously, I've sanded it off...

http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/6485/p7103062.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/39/p7103062.jpg/)

but before reachingm a gloss and super-refined surface I've covered the whole part with Tamiya putty

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/3263/p7103064.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/155/p7103064.jpg/)

and everything is smoothed

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/7508/p7113085.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/508/p7113085.jpg/)

then I had the idea for the weapon, mixing some Dragon armor with Star Wars (maybe y-fighter, I really can't remember) plastic parts

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/7035/p7113087.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/p7113087.jpg/)

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/2549/p7113088.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/705/p7113088.jpg/)

here I've add some details and cables on it, to give a rail-gun look to it

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/4140/p7113095.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/195/p7113095.jpg/)

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/6348/p7113096.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/401/p7113096.jpg/)

I've also decided to add a grill under the turrett, so I've cut an alluminium part for a real grill and after made a rough fram around it, I've glued iton the model
Everything will be blended with Epoxy later

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/3399/p7123116.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/528/p7123116.jpg/)

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/3083/p7133117.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/844/p7133117.jpg/)

After that I've started smaller cannon that will be placed in the turret's balcony

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/8672/p7133119.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/37/p7133119.jpg/)

http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/8915/p7133121.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/717/p7133121.jpg/)

and shaped with Milliput

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/3057/p7133128.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/28/p7133128.jpg/)

and lights....

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/1826/p7133137.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/412/p7133137.jpg/)

glued on the model...

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/2635/p7133138.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/189/p7133138.jpg/)

blended with putty

http://img825.imageshack.us/img825/4035/p7143142.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/825/p7143142.jpg/)

Now it's time to start the bottom parts. I've used a ZOID part as start (thanks Grail!!:) )and real PC vents and cases

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/4941/p7143148.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/213/p7143148.jpg/)

more pics here: http://kallamity.com/products/view/HGKA01

I hope you enjoy guys!

Luca

[ZLuca]

This is the beginning of the bottom part.
As I told before, the brown part is a Zoids piece a friend of mine shipped out from LA ( :D ).
(It's 3rd time I use a part in that box that I've received from him....very class-assortment man! ;) )

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/1919/p7153150.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/265/p7153150.jpg/)

First test of the bottom part hooked to the main shell

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/5107/p7153152.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/689/p7153152.jpg/)

....with Milliput on recesses and fan..

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/2858/p8176574.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/412/p8176574.jpg/)

Then I've started to think about adding a counter-weight on the back of the railgun
I've cut 3 Evergreen square pipes portions and then I've textured them with Tamiya putty and Kef

http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/1163/pa207178.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/843/pa207178.jpg/)

the idea was to simulate a concrete counterweight integrated in a metal frame as you find in some cranes or such.


http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/7724/pa207180.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/35/pa207180.jpg/)

..the brace is made with a Plastruct mast piece

http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/9122/pa207182.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/713/pa207182.jpg/)

done...

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/8440/pa207183.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/718/pa207183.jpg/)

...hooked to the railgun

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/3106/pa207184.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/207/pa207184.jpg/)

mounted on the Kastor, and here you can see also the beginning of the back part where there will be engines

http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/2416/pa207191.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/835/pa207191.jpg/)

3/4 front view, here there is the beginning of the bumper (well...if that's the right name for this part....)

http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/8953/pa207195.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/684/pa207195.jpg/)

details between radiator and the bumper (here there will be a camera and whires, sensors, cables, etcc..)

http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/875/pa217204.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/821/pa217204.jpg/)

side view: here you can see that I've add another layer of Aves epoxy putty (red one), to melt the grill I've put previously. In addiction I've add lots of stripes, details, holes, panel lines, etc..
I've also add a shield (helicopter part...forgot wich one) on the side of the railgun. Detail of that copter part was just perfect IMO, so I've just add putty on the back to make it thicker and a joint connect to the rail gun.

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/103/pa267243.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/12/pa267243.jpg/)

3/4 back view: here you can see the engine zone almost finished. Metal thrusters were a test for the Iguana (weren't good for the Lady), just perfect for the Kastor. THEY WON'T BE RELEASED IN ALLUMINIUM anyway, I'll use just one as prototype that will be casted in resin...
I've add also a sort of roll-bar to protect engines

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/7492/pa267244.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/194/pa267244.jpg/)

opposite 3/4 side view: casting numbers on the back of the turret

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/7643/pa267247.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/11/pa267247.jpg/)

left side-view :you can notice that here grills surrounded by red Aves are 2 instead of opposite side where there were just one, 'cause of the weapon...I'm loving those asymmetries more and more.... :wacko:

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/3179/pa267248.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/208/pa267248.jpg/)

3/4 right front view: here bumper is finished, with reinforcements and bolts of various sizes

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/1066/pa267251.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/pa267251.jpg/)

bumper detail..

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/4342/pa267255.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/256/pa267255.jpg/)

upper 3/4 front-view

http://img804.imageshack.us/img804/1656/pa267252.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/804/pa267252.jpg/)

In next set of pics I think I'll show you finished piece and maybe some extra-stuff :)

More pics here: http://kallamity.com/products/view/HGKA01 (second gallery)

thanks for watching guys

z

[[houn]]

Amazing as always! I have more or less every part you use in this project and never thought to use it togeter :rendered:
I've recently purchased also a copy of your book at Lucca Comics and I must congrat to you for the amazing concept/story and particulars shown in it! One of the great things in your works is that you show a lot of wips, aiding people improve sculpting abilities. Thank you sir!

[JI7]

Inspiring stuff as usual. Wish I was any good with my wacom tablet so I could enter your competition. Still eagerly waiting for my pre-ordered copy of Abakan. Keep up the good work.

[dreamsorcerer]

..What can I say? Blown away as usual.. what an inspiration!!!

[ZLuca]

;3307408']Amazing as always! I have more or less every part you use in this project and never thought to use it togeter :rendered:
I've recently purchased also a copy of your book at Lucca Comics and I must congrat to you for the amazing concept/story and particulars shown in it! One of the great things in your works is that you show a lot of wips, aiding people improve sculpting abilities. Thank you sir!

Thanks so much houn for the appreciation.
Thanks also for your positive feedback about Abakan. Guys in Lucca really had the opportunity to buy iy before the rest of the people, so your comment is one of the earlier I read in a forum! Thanks so much!

Inspiring stuff as usual. Wish I was any good with my wacom tablet so I could enter your competition. Still eagerly waiting for my pre-ordered copy of Abakan. Keep up the good work.

If you bought it, it means that you want use it, so.....try!! :)
Thanks!


..What can I say? Blown away as usual.. what an inspiration!!!

Thanks so much Dreamsorcerer, I'm happy if you feel inspired!

Thanks guys

Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello guys
finally Kastor model is completed.
Maybe some of you thinks it was already done and that I'm lazy, well..not :D
This last WIP part will explain all the works I've made since last time.
Master, as usual, was completely refined. This step is the worst part of the process. It seems a never ending process: sanding-priming and sending-priming again. So boring.
Anyway, since last update Kastor lacked of some minor parts and details like the interior part of the lights, back-lights, landing gears, new exhaust pipe, details on the turret's balcony and separation of front radiator from the rest of the main hull.
Then, I had to make photoetching sheet file yet.
In addiction, at he end, figures. One was based on Ian McQue illustration.

Anyway, let's start with last steps of the project:


First thing was to make some templates for concave part inside the lights.
To do that I choosed some little speres with different diameters that could be fit inside lights. All spheres were mounted on some handles.
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/5702/pb217567.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/33/pb217567.jpg/)

Then I've put some Aves inside the lights cilynder (being careful of quantity) and with the tools I've made (always wet), I pushed inside the putty to create inner concave shape.
http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/994/pb177500.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/51/pb177500.jpg/)

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/766/pb177502.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/266/pb177502.jpg/)

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/9756/pb177503.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/17/pb177503.jpg/)

http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/3103/pb177510.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/684/pb177510.jpg/)

light spots on the back
http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/2005/pb217572.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/850/pb217572.jpg/)

the result after a light sand job and primer. I've immagined these parts on the kit painted with chrome, as real lights are, to reproduce lights more realistically (I hope so). I've also put a hole in the middle to help modellers who will go with lighting.
http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/1050/pb227578.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/838/pb227578.jpg/)

Then I choosed some Koto-lights (that fit perfectly on the light spots) and I've polished them with a nail-tool my girlfriend found for me in perfumery.
It's a sort of 4-grain-sand-tool for nails, but the white part, the polishing one, really worked very well on plastic. Thanks Gio! :)
On the back of clear parts I've sribed lines, to encreas realistic effect.
http:// (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/42/pb227580.jpg/)
http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/3378/pb227581.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/809/pb227581.jpg/)
All light diameters
http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/701/pb227585.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/406/pb227585.jpg/)

Test fit
http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/4900/pb227586.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/231/pb227586.jpg/)

Another part that has been modified was the back of turret's balcony, where I put a detail. This is supposed to be the power unit for cockpit and air recycling filters, etc...there will be a light inside the round detail too. Maybe some steps of this could be helpful.
Step.1: with a scriber I created the cut area limits.
http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/3001/pb187512.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/542/pb187512.jpg/)
Step2: X-Acto knife is useful to create the right and streight gap all around
http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/5849/pb187514.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/163/pb187514.jpg/)
Step 3: a scraper is useful to work the middle from the middle of the part to the gap and all around.
http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/7815/pb187515.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/838/pb187515.jpg/)
Step4: The recessed part is done
http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/9264/pb187517.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/820/pb187517.jpg/)
Step5: I've created the mechanical part to put inside (some tank parts, plasticard, metal wires and koto OP)
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/8119/pb187520.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/259/pb187520.jpg/)
Step6: test fit
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/8119/pb187520.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/259/pb187520.jpg/)
Step7: I've also scribed a radiator on the front part
http:// (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/818/pb187524.jpg/)
Step8: some primer....
http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/3530/pb187529.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/31/pb187529.jpg/)

With some sprues I've done tubes around the weapon's hardpoint.
http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/5219/pb207549.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/812/pb207549.jpg/)

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/8122/pb207553.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/51/pb207553.jpg/)

and in the engine zone
http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/3694/pb187535.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/248/pb187535.jpg/)

Another part was the camera to put on the front, behind the bumber
http://img543.imageshack.us/img543/4326/pb217560.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/543/pb217560.jpg/)

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/5474/pb217564.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/248/pb217564.jpg/)

Turret's hatch done:
http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/7192/pb197543.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/828/pb197543.jpg/)

FIGURES
I've done my best guys on figures. It's not my speciality, but I love to do them and I'd like to learn more in the future.
First one was made modifying a 1/35 figure from an Academy tank box and....
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/9803/pb257660.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/259/pb257660.jpg/)

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/7529/pc027729.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/577/pc027729.jpg/)

......then covered by Aves.
I made all with this putty and I found it very versatile. Has longer drying times, so you can work relaxed for a couple of hours creating small details.

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/6216/pc027725.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/10/pc027725.jpg/)




Second figure was totally scratchbuilt (except the face) and I've been inspired by Ian McQue's illustration.

http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/3156/hovertanksoldiertest.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/853/hovertanksoldiertest.jpg/)

Here you can see also Scott's Robertson interpretation of the subject that he made in the booth in Lucca comics

http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/5369/lucakastorsmall.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/9/lucakastorsmall.jpg/)

Wire frame:
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/2109/pb257664.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/259/pb257664.jpg/)

Coverd with Aves and then sanded off
http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/9732/pc017687.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/832/pc017687.jpg/)

Starting with suit (the head is from Briegel pilot)
http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/6315/pc017688.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/pc017688.jpg/)

http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/5905/pc027709.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/pc027709.jpg/)

To create a small setting, I've started to make some junk and thrash :)

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/1707/pc017698.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/822/pc017698.jpg/)

An idea of a sort of bricks or squares
http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/6156/pc017703.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/195/pc017703.jpg/)

The thrash-box completed........
http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/1327/pc027715.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/248/pc027715.jpg/)

....let's go to put something together
http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/8024/pc027718.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/42/pc027718.jpg/)

almost done:
http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/3998/pc027720.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/46/pc027720.jpg/)

Both done:
http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/1338/pc027736.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/189/pc027736.jpg/)

At the end I've filled all the holes with putty
http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/381/pc027737.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/15/pc027737.jpg/)

Ok guys, I think it's enough. Sorry for very long and busy post. To see finished and primed Kastor and more stuff, as usual: http://kallamity.com/products/view/HGKA01 , third gallery.

thanks for viewing guys

Luca

[JI7]

I think your posts are amazing - so informative and detailed. Learning so much already. Thanks. By the way, has Abakan been released because I received confirmation that I was on a pre-order list and haven't heard anything yet. Supposedly they will send my copy out when it releases and then bill my card that I provided at the time of reservation.

[ZLuca]

Hello J17
thanks, I'm glad you're appreciating the WIP.
Abakan it's supposed to go on stock soon actually. I don't know about Amazon or other resellers, but I think it's going to be in stock in next couple of weeks or so, on DSP site http://www.designstudiopress.com/new_site/book_pages/pics_ABAKAN2288/book_ABAKAN2288.html

They're waiting for delivery from printer, so I hope it's amost ready

Luca

[sloopster]

sorry if you have answerd this before but what do you use for the tiny bolts you stuck on your model.

[Thadas]

Looking good man! Your models are really inspirational. Wish I could sculpt such awesome mechs...not to mention your step by step process of your work is wonderfully detailed and helpful.

[ZLuca]

sorry if you have answerd this before but what do you use for the tiny bolts you stuck on your model.

I buy exagon rivets here: http://www.hlj.com/product/KBYP-117


Looking good man! Your models are really inspirational. Wish I could sculpt such awesome mechs...not to mention your step by step process of your work is wonderfully detailed and helpful.

Thanks, very appreciated. I love WIPS here so I try my best to show some of my modelling trips..

Thanks guys
Luca

[ZLuca]

Hello guys,
few things.
I've just received an email from DSP sales manager and it seems wait is close to be over.
Paperback versions are already landed and they're shipping them out, but for hard-cover version, a little bit more patience is necessary.
In addiction, they decided to make a "Fan art Abakan challenge" on DSP Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=317430731603453&set=a.145073452172516.25386.144052105607984&type=1&ref=nf
It's a "design" and illustration contest, and you'll be judge by Scott Robertson in person!! So...join the contest, deadline is close!!

Second news is 40% special Chrismas discount on 3 brand new DSP books, ABAKAN 2288, Sparth's STRUCTURA 2 and Stephane Martiniere's VELOCITY
always in theyr Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=328968047116388&set=a.145073452172516.25386.144052105607984&type=1&theater

Thanks for reading!
Luca

[scolfield]

I did not read all text in this topic, but I have looked all pictures. Luca, your works fantastic and beautiful)) I really enjoy to seeing them))

[PaoloF]

I consider my Master, though he does not want to call it that .. :)
Congratulations, again, I brought them to you in person in Lucca C & G am am referring them to you here as well .. I wait to see a copy painted ...
For Abakan, it could have a copy for Christmas (AHAHAHAHAHAHAH)?
See you soon and good luck

[ZLuca]

I did not read all text in this topic, but I have looked all pictures. Luca, your works fantastic and beautiful)) I really enjoy to seeing them))
Im glad you watched the pictures at least! Thanks!


I consider my Master, though he does not want to call it that .. :)
Congratulations, again, I brought them to you in person in Lucca C & G am am referring them to you here as well .. I wait to see a copy painted ...
For Abakan, it could have a copy for Christmas (AHAHAHAHAHAHAH)?
See you soon and good luck

Hey Paolo! Glad to see you here!
I'm waiting for my Abakan copies too! They are close to arrive to everyone anyway...
cheers to all the crew (except one lol)
Luca

[enensis]

You are a huge inspiration to me mate. I have been following your work for a while and I think you are easily the best mecha builder in the world. I hope my mechas can be as good as yours one day

[ZLuca]

You are a huge inspiration to me mate. I have been following your work for a while and I think you are easily the best mecha builder in the world. I hope my mechas can be as good as yours one day

Thank you so much enensis, too generous!
Luca

[jonestation]

just order the hardcover version from Amazon, can't wait to have it!!
Looking forward for Part 2 too :-) !

[PianoForte]

conceptart.org is like a drug addiction, I thought I had it beat and for a couple of years I was clean but then along comes this new strain called ZLuca and I fall right off the wagon.

spectacular lines, excellent form and an eye for detail that would impress Geof Darrow. Your experience and willingness to share is something we should all be extremely grateful for and I thank you emphatically for taking the time to pass on so much. if your ever in NZ I know the guys at weta would love to meet you.

[ZLuca]

just order the hardcover version from Amazon, can't wait to have it!!
Looking forward for Part 2 too :-) !

Thanks!
Looking forward your thoughts about the book!



conceptart.org is like a drug addiction, I thought I had it beat and for a couple of years I was clean but then along comes this new strain called ZLuca and I fall right off the wagon.

spectacular lines, excellent form and an eye for detail that would impress Geof Darrow. Your experience and willingness to share is something we should all be extremely grateful for and I thank you emphatically for taking the time to pass on so much. if your ever in NZ I know the guys at weta would love to meet you.

Thanks man!
I'm really happy to show WIPS because I've started my work watching someone else's WIP, soit's my pleasure.
Glad you enjoyed!

Luca

[ZLuca]

http://img851.imageshack.us/img851/6356/kastory.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/851/kastory.jpg/)


Hello guys!
I'd like to let you know that Kastor is available for pre-order on Industria Mechanika website, if you're interested!

http://industriamechanika.com/blog/shop-industria-mechanika/luca-zampriolos-kastor-hovertank/

Thanks!

Luca

[Velocity Kendall]

these are totally awesome!