Long Time, No Blog. New Chapter Awaits.

It appears I've been on a nearly two year hiatus from this blog. I first started this blog during my Undergraduate studies as a way to try and get some sort of internet presence and to document my work and progress. That went well for a little while, also using this blog to express my opinions on other areas of life as well as my studies. Then, apparently I lost momentum. 

Nonetheless, I'm kick-starting this puppy back into regular action. A lot has happened since I last wrote about anything here, including graduating from my B.A and a year and a half later my M.A in Games Design. Now I'm an intern with - hopefully!-  a bright future awaiting me. I had a academic specific blog for my M.A studies, wherein I researched the relationships between characters, players and game spaces, resulting in a project that I'm continuing to develop on my own, actually. You can traipse through my reflective journal here if it at all interests you: http://fmdalby-ma.blogspot.co.uk/

This blog will remain a journal of everything, but will indeed focus heavily on my artwork as well and anything to do with games and Games Design principles that interest me. There are a few points of research that I did during my M.A that I'd like to revisit, and over the coming months while I am working towards my internship and another unspecified project, as well as my own, I will be sharing all my thoughts, views and hypotheses that arise during that time.

So if you are interested in the finer points of Games Design, feel free to follow this blog because I will be raising a number of discussions. It's my aim to share my recent knowledge with as many enthusiasts as I can, so I've realsied it's also about time to get on websites like Wordpress, or Tumblr and ArtStation wherein I can share my artwork. There are plenty of people who must be in the position I've recently been in, especially when trying to break into the games industry if that's what you want particularly, so I want nothing more than to share my experiences and to make the search and the journey a little easier for other aspiring game designers and artists.

So, without further delay, it's time to jump back into the fray.

See you soon
Farron

UK Wolf Conservation Trust

Last year, as a Christmas gift, I was bought a membership for the UK Wolf Conversation Trust, down near Reading. I had heard of this place simply through my love of wolves, and searching for any sanctuary-type place that might have wolves in the UK. This was a godsend, and when I discovered that I would have the chance to walk with them, I was ecstatic! 

The UK Wolf Conversation Trust is a beautiful, private place. There, they have ten wolves, three of which are Arctic Wolves. It's nothing like a zoo, I must iterate. Each group of wolves has at least two acres of enclosure. They are respected for what they are: wild animals, and as such are treated that way. Yes, all but one were reared by the handlers and have a good relationship with their handlers - yet they are not treated as seen as pets. In my opinion, that is a wonderful thing. Wolves cannot be tamed. 

We had the chance to walk with the three youngest wolves, Tala, Nuka and Tundra, as well as see the wolves being fed at the end of the day. It was a fantastic experience, as this photographs just go to show. 

 

 

The Trust doesn't keep wolves as a means of entertainment. In fact, they only keep a handful of wolves as a means to educate. Everything they receive financially goes towards the wolves' upkeep, and the rest donated to other causes and projects specifically set up to help wolf conservation. They rarely have more than ten wolves, and even that is a struggle for them monetary-wise. 

It's a brilliant experience though. By seeing them live, in the flesh and acting as naturally as any wolf would, it makes you understand that the fears people have about wolves are almost all misconceptions. Films like the Grey are totally inaccurate. Wolves have a natural fear of humans, and we saw that in Motomo - the only wolf not to have been reared from young. He scarcely came within ten feet of the fencing to get his food simply because we were stood there. They are graceful, family-orientated creatures, very unlike the way they are perceived. The UKWCT is an excellent learning tool - bust the myths about wolves. 

This was one experience I will always remember fondly, and I would jump at the chance to do it again. I'd also push people to research this foundation and to understand that these animals are innocent. They just do what nature intended - and that ISN'T hunting humans.

Artistic Progression or Back to Basics?

This was an issue that came to mind a little while back. All artists, in all forms and disciplines learn, grow and develop in their specific field, and even broaden their skills in other areas. That's life. Whether I'm talking about a music group or a fine artist, that's irrelevant, because each is an individual creative skill. The problem I see here, though, is the unsaid debate that seems to surround these mediums. While it is not spoken aloud, one only has to look hard enough to see that the recipients of these creative arts - the outsiders who see the work from afar and utter a unique point of view - appear to be torn. 

Is it better for an artist, of any kind, to fly the nest and leave their comfort zone or are they best holding on to what made them who they are in the first place? 

Either way, it seems they cannot win. One way or another, there will always be criticism towards an artist of any discipline. 

Take for example, the latest album released at the end of October just passed, by Kamelot. A band known for being one of the most influential power metal bands of the last decade or more. No one would really dispute that, but over the past few years things have begun to change. The power metal element has lessened, leaning towards a progressive style. Now, there's nothing wrong with progressive metal, yet there are people out there who are so narrow-minded who believe that once a group makes their break in one particular genre, then they should have to stay in that threshold. There are those out there who are strictly listeners of one style of music, and anything or anyone who does not fall under that one category they actually consider worthy are automatically shunted and criticised for not being what that individual wants them to be.

Yet the most absurd thing with this particular album, Silverthorn, is that the band have actually turned back to roots. That more melodic, rawer and more vocally powerful and emotional sound has returned! It sounds like the best two albums of their career, Epica and The Black Halo. But apparently for some people that isn't enough.  

That selfish attitude is dangerous. It is also unfair. When someone makes music, they have every right to grow and develop, and if they never do then all you will ever receive from them is more of the same. Never will you hear another ground-breaking release because you haven't allowed them that creative freedom. 

Every artist has to develop. Yes, they will always grow and change as time goes by. I've seen it with digital painters even, or fine artists, where as an artist begins to experiment with different techniques a regular viewer of theirs shoots down that creativity and tries to dictate that they should stick with what they've always done best. That is wrong. An artist would end up stuck in a rut, going nowhere, learning nothing. 

On the other hand, is it truly right for an artist to leave everything else behind? In the beginning they would have developed something, that one unique aspect that makes them recognizable. It wouldn't be right for them to abandon that. So, while that artist, be it a band - like the above example who have remember their roots after a precarious few years and yet kept their more mature sound - or a fine artist, has every right to progress into something new and unexplored, it always pays to stay true to the original. Going back to basics always has its advantages for the sake of those appreciators who were drawn into the art by that first unique spark that defines the artist.

Fans should not try and dictate what the artist does. Honestly, that is really selfish. A real fan should be able to understand and appreciate that a creative mind will never stay in one place. It keeps the excitement alive, knowing that something knew will turn out from it all, carrying with it the essence of the creative person. That spark is like a signature. Without it, that work could belong to anyone. 

Just don't tie their hands. An artist must be able to spread his or her wings and find new territory. Taking risks is the only way to achieve something greater than what has already been reached. 

Nachos x

Kamelot, The Almighty

It has to be said that Kamelot put on the most incredible show I have seen to date. While I thought Shinedown performed excellently, followed by Evanescence in Manchester, I was overwhelmed by Kamelot. 

Though, it must be said that each band I've seen this Autumn/Winter has played in a completely different venue to the rest, with Kamelot performing in the smallest venue in the HMV Forum in London and Evanescence in Manchester Arena (approximately three times as big as the Forum!). Personally I prefer the smaller arenas, as they exert a much more intimate feel and atmosphere. You feel far closer to the band on stage and - if you're lucky like me - you get pinpointed in the crowd. (-Momentary fan-girl squeal-). I've had a very different experience with each, although I did get to meet Shinedown as well as Kamelot, mainly because of the venue. The other contributing factor to an excellent gig is also the crowd, believe it or not. A cooperative, excitable crowd always add to the lively atmosphere. 

Also adding the fact that I met them too... I met my all-time favourite band!

L-R: Oliver; Casey; Thomas; Me; Tommy; Sean; Elize

Sure, Evanescence had that air about it, of course they did with the six and a half thousand people present, but Kamelot, with their more close-knit, loyal fan-base to stand by them regardless, were gifted with an amazing crowd of people who enjoyed every moment of the show. You could hear the beauty in the music, but you could also feel it too! The emotion in Tommy's voice, and the acting of the songs through his gestures, and the bass rumbling through you... it simply all came together perfectly. Not to mention the perfect blend and variety of songs they played throughout. I could not help but feel giddy every moment I was about three feet away from any one of the band members... never had I been so close. Tommy made the decision of jumping off the stage and stood upon the barrier (perhaps a bad idea with a group of gaggling girls to my left pretty much attempting to grope the man)... and moments like that, and when the infamous Thomas Youngblood stands upon the amps in front of you and brushes his hand past yours, leaves you somewhat breathless. No experience I have had compares to this, feeling the live music of and standing so near the band you admire perhaps the most. 

Now, when you think about it, the impact music has on you isn't too far gone from art. Music is an art. The point of art is to create an impression on the viewer (or listener!), to convey a message and to communicate visually (or musically!). When you look at a painting, drawing, digital or otherwise, you feel something from it. It impacts you with some kind of emotion whether positive or negative, and leaves you pondering more about the message or ideal of that artwork. You interpret the piece of work, deciding on whether it comes together as a successful piece or not - in your opinion (that's mightily important) mind you - and discovering the whole reason for the use of colour palette and style of brush strokes. Artwork always has contrast, and the artist behind it all undoubtedly develops. 

This applies to musicians as well. A good musician  singer, songwriter, guitarist, composer (you name it) creates their music with intent, deliberately and confidently, trying to leave an imprint on the listener. 

During Kamelot's show, I felt it all. Tommy's voice, particularly during Song for Jolee, sent chills down my spine with that mournful beauty coupled with the song's lyrics. It was an absolutely incredible experience. Let's not forget that they are really lovely people to talk to as well, I know first hand now. If I could turn back time I would most certainly do it all again (including battle with the London Underground to get there!). 

In the next couple of days I will post the photographic evidence, some rather good captured moments if I say so (this time with a proper camera, unlike Shinedown (woops!)). Although, here is a taster for what is to come, a taster of just how near I was: -

(-More excitement-)

Tommy Karevik

SO  if you are a fan of Kamelot, stay tuned for more photography from the Silverthorn

tour @ The Forum, London.
x

Shinedown - Manchester 29/10/12

I had to write an entry about this gig; it was, as per usual, an excellent performance by Shinedown- this time at the 02 Apollo. 

Not to mention this time I was able to meet them. (Moment of heart-busting excitement!)

Yes this is art related, because it includes some of my VERY amateur photography (in this case it wasn't really for artwork's purposes, given that I was limited to my camera phone and waiting to take photographs at rare still moments!) 

Anyway, I took a few photographs which weren't the best quality but they capture the essence of the atmosphere in the arena. [ N.B - I remembered a camera, but forgot the memory card, which reduced me to the use of my phone. This was devastating, because in the end the dim lighting and poor quality led to a photograph with the band that I had to edit in Photoshop to get it vaguely clear ] 

BUT - I met them, and they were such friendly guys! Surprised by how short they all were, barely taller than my measly 5'6, but such a humble group of men. Bit of banter over my phone because they saw my password when I tried to get to the camera mode. Shinedown - you could steal my phone any-day (just so long as you gave it back!) 

The band and I! Not the best quality picture, but one is better than none at all!

It was simply amazing. A pretty much packed out venue, with nearly four thousand people - which is quite impressive for a band that has only really recently taken off over here in the United Kingdom. Bear in mind, that's only one venue out of many that they have been playing at throughout their UK tour. 

They had a slightly different set-list this time, which I wasn't complaining about. They played pretty much most of my favourite songs, as always! One of the best moments had to be during the encore, the performance of Simple Man: 

Hearing the crowd singing over the top of Brent was incredible and chill-inducing all at once:

Excuse the steward in the corner! But yes, I was close :P 

Later I may return to this post and update the pictures with slightly edited, sharper focus and better contrasted versions - just so to make the quality somewhat better! But you can see enough from these for now ;)

I digress. 

Before Simple Man came Devour, and boy does that always go down well! I love this song and I always sing my heart out when it inevitably comes about during their performance!

Taking a photo of the guitarist at this point above (obviously!) and to get a smile of recognition from the earlier Meet & Greet filled me with butterflies. Zach is such a lovely man - well, as are they all. 

These photographs may be swamped with light, but I hope you can see the energy in them. The very exposed light is partly due to the strobe lights, partly due to the poor equipment being used to take the photographs - as earlier stated! :P 

Every one of the songs played were amazing. I've never been disappointed by a performance by Shinedown - and I've seen them three times this year already. Many more of their gigs for me to attend, I expect! Okay, so the support bands were questionable, the second most definitely better than the first, but in the end it wasn't them I went to see. It was Shinedown, and once again they delivered. 

There was an intriguing moment, when Brent stopped the whole show because of some commotion going on not too far to my right. Perhaps someone had been hurt, and he wasn't going to carry on playing until he made sure everyone was all-right. It turned out that a girl had lost her Iphone. Well, darling, don't take such an expensive phone to a gig where it would potentially get lost or damaged! You interrupted everyone else's show. Other than that little five minutes of amusement, a flawless show. It perhaps topped their performance at Download this year... maybe. ;D

Meeting them was almost dream-like, and I'd pay for it again! (Although I didn't pay for it this time, it was a birthday gift!)

If only I had remembered my memory card for the worthwhile, 14 mp camera I had with me...

SDK Modelling

Sounds like a disease... but no, it's not! :P

In the case of this blog and 3D modelling, it refers to the texturing of a model made by another person. Many  people create models and upload them for other people to practice their texturing. It's a good way to learn the typical way of laying out UV's after a character is modelled, to be able texture properly and accurately.

Here is my attempt at an SDK:

MODEL BY:  JOCHEN BREMER 

It kind of looks like Iron Man in a way, what with the red and gold complimenting metal. She's a cyborg, if you haven't noticed. There have been lots of takes on this 'Cybabe' model, space interpretations, everything. So this is mine. Her dress sense is pretty much based on the kind of thing I wear (except not shorts quite so short!) I'm quite happy with the texture quality, the textures being shown below: 

So I'll disclaim now, that I'm not sure how the contrast and/or saturation looks on the screen you're viewing it on, because my laptop (the only thing I can work from until I buy a desktop after Christmas) seems to be oddly desaturated compared to most. So what may view as a nice saturation level to me may be a bit too high on another person's screen. So apologies for that.

Anyway, onwards to completing my Pitch Document.
x

Beginner Lightmapping in UDK

Sounds difficult - it isn't really.
Sounds awkward - that it is. 

You've just got the hang of unwrapping UV's in Maya for texturing your model, which you're then going to import into UDK for a nice imaginative and professional scene. Then you learn about lightmapping. Lightmapping is what allows for proper lighting and shadow upon externally inserted models in a UDK scene, for those who don't know that. Bear in mind, I'm writing as if addressing a complete novice to the Unreal Engine and its scary interface. I was a complete novice not so long ago - I could probably still claim that title now, but, as stated previously, I'm a fast learner. Yes, I'm definitely an amateur. -Ahem- I digress. 

So not only do you need to unwrap the texture UV in Maya, you have to create a second UV for the same model, which will be created as the lightmap. It has to be unwrapped properly, with each shell in its own unique space - generally with about 2-4 pixels between each shell if you are working on a grid equal to the UDK grid. Well, that worked for me.

Anyway, all of this means that an imported, fully textured model will be lighted correctly, shadows being cast in the right manner according the direction of the light baked in the UDK scene.

To anyone completely new to this, it may feel complicated, but as long as you follow the right steps and look up tutorials (there are plenty out there!), then you'll get there.

Just to finish up, here's the result of my lightmapping project for uni. In the end I came out with some pretty cool shadows I think. I'm not saying its perfect, but nothing and no one is. For a first attempt, it's satisfactory.  (It features the two low poly models I posted not too long ago, in fact)

 

'Til next time xx