Digital Sculpture of Fantastic Creatures with ZBrush
A course by Luis Alberto Gayoso Berrospi3D Artist
A course by Luis Alberto Gayoso Berrospi, 3D Artist
Learn alternative 3D modeling techniques and methods to create a kraken
In the world of 3D modeling, specialists give life not only to human characters and figures but also creatures straight out of a science fiction movie or video game. 3D artist Luis Gayoso specializes in the creation of fantastic characters and has a proven track record as a digital artist, and now he’s ready to help you take your first steps in digital sculpture.
In this online course, Luis shows you, first and foremost, that you don't need an expert level of ZBrush to get awe-inspiring results. Follow along as he shows you his simple methodology for designing and modeling creatures.
What will you learn in this online course?
18 lessons & 46 downloads
Introduction to the ZBrush platform (part 1)
14 minutes, 55 seconds
Introduction to the ZBrush platform (part 2)
9 minutes, 41 seconds
Collection and registration of references for the project
7 minutes, 8 seconds
Blocking and 3D conceptual proposal (part 1)
13 minutes, 14 seconds
Blocking and conceptual 3D proposal (part 2)
9 minutes, 19 seconds
Modeling the head (part 1)
8 minutes, 59 seconds
What's included in this course?
Get started by learning more about Luis Gayoso, his main influences, his artistic training, his passion for video games, and how he combines it all when designing and modeling 3D creatures.
Then, Luis offers a general overview of ZBrush, taking the time to explain its most important tools in detail before showing you how to configure the interface so you can use it with confidence.
Next, start working on the course project of modeling a kraken by collecting visual references to develop a conceptual proposal. Later, see how to prepare a rough draft of your sculpture using basic shapes and volumes and define the silhouette and proportions of your model with blocking.
Once your draft is ready, Luis offers a brief analysis of both human and animal anatomy to help you structure the model and define the most important anatomical features, including the head, torso, and different extremities.
After that, explore the techniques and automatic tools used to incorporate details and "microdetails" into your model. To add an incredible finish and achieve a more interesting composition, Luis then explains some simple methods for developing your creature's environment.
Lastly, enhance your model with software for light and shadows called Keyshot, where you can configure the light and material and develop a high-quality render.
Recommended software & tools for this course
What is this course's project?
Prepare a proposal for a kraken, using the one from Clash of the Titans as a starting point. After that, you can propose and structure your own fantastic creature.
Projects by course students
Who is this online course for?
Beginner and experienced modelers, illustrators, and hobbyists looking to discover alternative 3D sculpting methods and techniques.
Requirements and materials
To participate, knowledge of any basic 2D or 3D design software is required since that is what Luis uses to show you the step-by-step process for creating your creature.
In terms of materials, you need a computer with ZBrush 2018.1 (or higher) and Keyshot installed.
Reviews
- 3 months ago
Muy bueno!
- 8 months ago
interesting course!
- 10 months ago
mi piace il sistema molto chiaro e progressivo delle spiegazioni
- 11 months ago
Me gusta mucho los tutoriales de luis alberto
- 11 months ago
very very very veeeeeryyyy VEEEERY GOOOOOOOOOOOOD COURSE THANK YOUUUUU!!!
He has worked with different agencies, production houses, brands, and companies in the field and has served as instructor of 3D animation and visual effects at different design and digital production training institutions.
Content
- U1
Introduction
- Presentation
- Influences
- U2
Introduction to the ZBrush and conceptual proposal of the modeling of a kraken
- Introduction to the ZBrush platform (part 1)
- Introduction to the ZBrush platform (part 2)
- Collection and registration of references for the project
- Blocking and 3D conceptual proposal (part 1)
- Blocking and conceptual 3D proposal (part 2)
- U3
HD sculpture of the kraken
- Modeling the head (part 1)
- Modeling the head (part 2)
- Torso modeling (part 1)
- Torso modeling (part 2)
- Modeling of the extremities
- Modeling of secondary extremities
- U4
Textures and details for a realistic finish
- General Modeling Detail
- Adding micro details to modeling
- Modeling of the scenery
- U5
Posing and render
- Perched of the character
- Lighting and render
- FP
Final project
- x Introduction to creature modeling with ZBrush
What to expect from a Domestika course
Learn at your own pace
Enjoy learning from home without a set schedule and with an easy-to-follow method. You set your own pace.
Learn from the best professionals
Learn valuable methods and techniques explained by top experts in the creative sector.
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Ask questions, request feedback, or offer solutions. Share your learning experience with other students in the community who are as passionate about creativity as you are.
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FAQs
You’ll learn to model characters and creatures in 3D, apply anatomical principles, texture, organize models with layers and subtools, optimize geometry using ZRemesh, and prepare your models for 3D printing or animation — all using professional ZBrush techniques.
This is an intermediate-level course, so basic knowledge of digital art or 3D modeling is recommended. If you’re already familiar with the fundamentals, you’ll get the most out of the advanced content.
You’ll need a computer with ZBrush installed and a graphics tablet for better precision. Having access to visual references and basic digital drawing materials will also help.
The course covers blocking techniques, Dynamesh usage, geometry subdivision, subtool management, interface customization, texturing, environment creation, and character posing in ZBrush.
Yes, you’ll learn how to conceptualize and sculpt hybrid creatures by combining anatomical references, animal features, and advanced digital sculpting techniques in ZBrush.
Yes, the course includes optimizing and cleaning models for 3D printing as well as preparing characters for digital animation using specific ZBrush tools.
Visual references are crucial for achieving correct anatomical proportions and realistic details. You’ll learn how to gather, organize, and use references to boost your creative process.