Interceptor Gun Ship Concept
Personal Design Project
Sometimes you simply have to indulge that creative impulse. For me, it manifests as a personal design project, typically undertaken every couple of years during periods of project downtime.
A dynamic blend of elegance and aggression.
Tasks: Concept Design, 3D Modelling, Shading and Rendering.
Tools: Maya, Blender and Cycles
Client: Envision Formula E Team
Agency/Studio: N/A
Team Members: Just me
As a designer, following that innate creative urge is essential. In my case, it led me to embark on a design journey that began in 2019 and finished in 2023. It was fueled by a deep-rooted passion for Star Wars from childhood and an admiration for the iconic ship designs in shows like Star Trek. I aimed to blend sleek lines, practicality, and a distinct silhouette into a harmonious creation.
The design language I embraced aimed to achieve an aesthetic that exuded elegance from specific angles while unmistakably signalling trouble to any adversaries from other perspectives. I needed to create a vehicle that showcased a captivating visual presence and left an indelible impression, making it clear that danger loomed for those who crossed its path.
This personal project allowed me to scratch that creative itch, channelling my passion and inspiration into a design that blends nostalgic elements with my unique vision. It is a testament to the power of imagination and the joy of bringing ideas to life.
When I work on personal projects, I often seize the opportunity to learn new skills and techniques. For this project, I focused on using 'greebles' to add intricate details, and then employed advanced shader networks in Blender to weather the entire craft, imbuing it with a sense that it has seen action and has a story to tell.
I thoroughly enjoyed working on this project and I'm certain I'll revisit it next time a client requires some extra thinking time.
As part of this project, I crafted an opener for my animation showreel. I aimed to captivate viewers with a dynamic flight motion, conveying the speed and maneuverability of the craft, while evoking a sense of momentum, weight, and power.