In this concept art workshop, Mike Thompson begins by gathering and organizing reference using PureRef. He demonstrates how to build a visual library of concept art, past work, and photographic references from multiple angles, providing an accessible resource to guide the entire creative process.

Duration: 6m 40s

This lesson demonstrates Mike’s character sculpting workflow in ZBrush, starting from simple ZSpheres and progressing to a textured model. Emphasizing strong foundational anatomy, he highlights patience, constant reference use, and efficient blocking at low resolution before adding surface detail.

Duration: 35m 45s

In this lesson, Mike demonstrates how detailed ZBrush sculpting and poly painting build a stronger base character, reducing the need for post-work in other applications. By working from large forms to fine details, leveraging symmetry, and reusing assets, he shows how 3D painting can rival traditional 2D techniques, producing a compelling character ready for final rendering and compositing.

Duration: 32m 58s

In this lesson, Mike demonstrates his lighting and compositing workflow, transforming a ZBrush model into a polished 2D painting. By creating multiple lighting passes, masks, and material variations, and using camera-locking and organized rendering, he gains precise control over lighting, contrast, and individual elements, minimizing costly errors during compositing in Photoshop.

Duration: 21m 51s

In this lesson, Mike shares his compositing process in Photoshop, a process that requires patience and systematic experimentation. By evaluating elements, adjusting opacity, and using selective masks, he carefully combines multiple lighting passes to build a solid foundation for the subsequent paint-over phase.

Duration: 29m 32s

In this lesson, Mike begins the paint-over process in Corel Painter, showing how 3D modeling and digital painting combine to create detailed, illustrative work with a natural, hand-painted feel. He emphasizes non-destructive workflows, strategic use of shortcuts, and regularly evaluating the piece to maintain overall cohesion.

Duration: 29m 1s

In this final lesson, Mike demonstrates iterative refinement and constant reference checking, using Corel Painter and Photoshop to elevate the artwork to client-ready quality. He highlights the importance of knowing when to stop detailing, offering key insights for professional digital artists.

Duration: 27m 22s