In this workshop, Maarten Verhoeven introduces the concept sculpting series, beginning with an initial sketching phase in ZBrush. By maintaining a flexible, exploratory workflow and consistently evaluating the design, he demonstrates how artists can organically develop complex characters. One of Maarten's key insights is that perceived detail often comes from the strategic placement of forms that catch light effectively, rather than relying on extremely high-polygon counts. This approach is especially well suited for production concept work.

Duration: 43m 26s

In this lesson, Maarten adds more detail to his character, emphasizing iterative refinement over linear progression in his workflow. He also demonstrates how successful character sculpting relies heavily on proportion adjustment and evaluating forms from multiple angles and not just intricate details. By strategically using time-saving techniques, like asset reuse, selective detailing based on final view angles, and surface textures to create the illusion of complexity, Maarten efficiently creates a compelling biomechanical character ready for posing and rendering.

Duration: 50m 52s

This lesson looks at Maarten's process for efficiently posing complex character sculptures in ZBrush, while maintaining sculptural quality and design flexibility. His emphasis on organization and strategic masking shows how proper preparation enables smooth transitions between different processes in ZBrush. Maarten's iterative approach to posing reflects his sculpting method, illustrating how technical skills and artistic judgment can work together to create a more interesting piece.

Duration: 15m 58s

In this lesson, Maarten uses Marvelous Designer to create simple cloth simulations that enhance his character design. His quick, iterative approach demonstrates how artists should evaluate their work, and shows that sometimes the best creative decision is removing elements that distract from the overall composition. By following a clear workflow, Maarten provides a practical, production-ready pipeline for integrating realistic cloth elements into ZBrush-based character models.

Duration: 6m 19s

In this lesson, Maarten moves back into ZBrush to run through another detail pass of his model, now with added cloth from Marvelous Designer. His practical workflow where elements are refined, positioned, and sometimes created specifically for visual effect, rather than technical perfection, illustrates how artists should think when creating character work for concept. These thoughtful final touches, can transform a model from looking boring and plasticy to believable when rendered.

Duration: 5m 53s

In this lesson, Maarten demonstrates an efficient approach to concept rendering that prioritizes material experimentation and real-time feedback, in KeyShot. By keeping most creative decisions within the rendering itself rather than relying on Photoshop paint-overs, Maarten maintains flexibility until his very last step in post production. He notes how bold visual choices, material testing, and unique lighting setups can transform a greyscale design into something visually striking.

Duration: 16m 58s

In this last lesson, Maarten shows his composting process in Photoshop, using systematic layering of assets and subtle refinements. His approach of using non-destructive techniques, gradients, curves and blending modes, allows him to work fluidly while maintaining the integrity of the original 3D render. Maarten also places emphasis on small details and atmospheric elements all add up to professional-quality results that guide the viewer's eye through the piece.

Duration: 18m 31s