What are the latest trends and techniques in digital sculpting?

1 Dynamic topology

Dynamic topology is a feature that allows you to sculpt without worrying about the underlying mesh structure or resolution. It automatically adapts the level of detail and the number of polygons based on the size and intensity of your brush strokes. This gives you more flexibility and control over your sculpting process, as you can create complex shapes and details without having to subdivide or retopologize your mesh. Some of the software that support dynamic topology are Blender, ZBrush, and Sculptris.

2 VR sculpting

VR sculpting is a technique that uses virtual reality devices, such as headsets and controllers, to immerse you in a 3D space where you can sculpt with your hands and gestures. It offers a more intuitive and natural way of sculpting, as you can manipulate your model from any angle and perspective, and feel the feedback of your actions. It also allows you to collaborate with other artists in real time, and share your creations online. Some of the software that enable VR sculpting are Medium, Masterpiece VR, and Gravity Sketch.

3 Stylized sculpting

Stylized sculpting is a style that emphasizes artistic expression and creativity over realism and accuracy. It often involves exaggerated proportions, shapes, colors, and textures, and draws inspiration from various sources, such as cartoons, anime, comics, and games. It can be used to create unique and memorable characters, creatures, and environments, that convey a certain mood, personality, or story. Some of the software that facilitate stylized sculpting are ZBrush, 3D-Coat, and Blender.

4 Sculpting layers

Sculpting layers are a feature that allows you to organize your sculpting process into separate and editable levels of detail. You can create, modify, hide, or delete layers as you sculpt, and blend them together with different modes and opacities. This gives you more flexibility and control over your sculpting workflow, as you can experiment with different ideas, variations, and effects, without affecting the rest of your model. Some of the software that support sculpting layers are ZBrush, Mudbox, and Blender.

5 Sculpting brushes

Sculpting brushes are the tools that you use to shape, deform, smooth, and paint your model. They come in different types, sizes, shapes, and settings, and can be customized to suit your needs and preferences. They can also be enhanced with various features, such as alphas, textures, curves, and masks, to create more realistic and detailed results. Some of the software that offer a wide range of sculpting brushes are ZBrush, Blender, and 3D-Coat.

6 Sculpting tips

Sculpting tips are the best practices and advice that can help you improve your sculpting skills and achieve better results. They can cover different aspects of sculpting, such as anatomy, proportions, form, lighting, materials, rendering, and presentation. They can also help you avoid common mistakes and pitfalls, such as over-detailing, symmetry, topology, and performance. Some of the sources that provide useful sculpting tips are online tutorials, courses, books, blogs, and forums.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?