Ryan Kittleson, a name synonymous with vibrant and imaginative 3D art, didn’t always know his passion would lie in the digital realm. Like many artists, his journey began with a spark: a moment of awe that ignited his creative fire.
As a child, I was always drawn to art,” Ryan recalls, “but it wasn’t until I was 13, mesmerized by the groundbreaking special effects in Jurassic Park, that I truly grasped the potential of 3D animation. Reading about this emerging field felt like discovering a hidden world of magic. This initial spark was further ignited by the visual spectacles of Terminator 2 and Toy Story, solidifying my decision to pursue a career in this exciting and burgeoning field.”
Ryan’s artistic style is a unique blend of influences, a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of masters like M. C. Escher, the surrealism of Dali, the biomechanical wonders of H. R. Giger, the haunting beauty of Beksinski, and the whimsical charm of Bill Watterson.
“It’s hard to define my own style,” Ryan admits with a laugh. “I tend to jump around a lot, exploring different approaches with each piece. Sometimes it feels like I have no style at all!” This stylistic fluidity, however, has become a valuable asset in his freelance career, allowing him to adapt seamlessly to the diverse needs of his clients.
Dreaming Big: Collaborations and Aspirations
If given the chance to collaborate with any artist or studio, Ryan wouldn’t hesitate. “Working with Bill Watterson on a 3D animated Calvin and Hobbes film? That would be a dream come true,” he exclaims. “Or maybe contributing to a new Gremlins movie… I think I’d explode with excitement!” But beyond specific collaborations, Ryan harbors a larger ambition: to establish his own studio, a creative hub where talented artists can come together to push the boundaries of 3D art, free from the constraints of large studio systems.
Wacom Intuos Pro: A Creative Catalyst
When it comes to his creative process, Ryan emphasizes the importance of tools that seamlessly integrate with his artistic flow. “Like any great tool, the Wacom Intuos Pro lets you forget that you’re using it, and you just focus on getting work done. I just pick up the stylus and go at it. The less I have to think about using a tool, the better!”
Advice for the Next Generation: Cultivate Your Unique Voice
For aspiring 3D artists, Ryan offers a piece of hard-won wisdom: “Remember that the tools are just tools. The most important thing is your own unique vision.” In the rapidly evolving world of AI, cultivating a strong artistic voice is more crucial than ever.
“When I was starting out,” Ryan recalls, “online forums were invaluable. I learned so much from other artists sharing their tips and tricks. I’m grateful for that community, and I want to pay it forward.”
The Future of 3D Art: Navigating the Evolving Landscape
Ryan views the future of 3D art with a blend of optimism and realism. “AI is definitely changing the game,” he acknowledges. “But at the heart of it, art is about expressing a unique perspective, telling a story. Those core elements will always remain important.” He envisions a future where independent creators flourish, empowered to bring their own unique visions to life, free from the limitations of traditional studio systems.
Words of Wisdom: A Message for the Soul
As Ryan concludes, his message to aspiring artists is simple yet profound: “Don’t worry about pleasing the right people or chasing the latest trends. Focus on creating what you love, what truly excites you. That’s where the real magic happens.”
About the artist
Ryan Kittleson is a 3D artist who is an expert in Zbrush, Maya 3D modeling, and Photoshop who frequently works on 3D printed creations as well. He is a full-time freelancer since 2012 who has worked for Nike, DisneyWorld, SeaWorld, Keebler, PlayStation, Saks Fifth Avenue, AT&T, Buddy Thunderstruck, and more. He is also a former professor of character animation.
Check out more of his work on YouTube, ArtStation, or Instagram, or look him up on LinkedIn.
