Militech Soldier

I am starting a new series of concept fan art that would revolve around Cyberpunk's universe. Due to its regained popularity after Edgerunner’s release last month, I've been playing it whenever I could, making me obsessed with the game in general. I submitted an entry for the Photo Mode Challenge - Wardrobe Edition (wish me luck) and hope to be one of the chosen few to be selected. The fangirl in me wants the prizes so badly.

Anyway, my artwork is inspired by Militech, a megacorporation that specializes in weapons manufacturing and private military contracting. Whenever I am cruising with a motorcycle in-game around the eastern Badlands, I would see a lot of Militech soldiers acting like a patrol.

© CD Projekt RED

Let’s talk about the process. I came across a good reference model from DeviantArt and did most of the things myself. I recreated the Militech logo to add to the soldier’s military uniform and drew the facial cyberware. For my background, I took a VP in-game and then transformed it into vexel to match the vector style I did for the model. Added a couple of textures, and light hatching for the shadows. Lastly, fixed some minor color adjustments through post-processing.

WHAT'S ON MY MIND?

All-throughout the journey to complete this artwork, I somehow realized what is my main passion and the kind of work I wanted to pursue as my end game. I always wanted to create art and express myself without limitations. Video games are my main inspiration and also the hobby I do the most. It has been my dream to work for a gaming studio and way back I just thought I lack the talent necessary to be a skilled artist.

I just feel insecure that I can’t draw without guides and I needed a model so I can just copy it with my eyes when doing it traditionally. Our eldest brother and my twin can draw better than me if I’m being honest in terms of natural talent. I guess that’s one of the reasons I stopped practicing drawing and I always think I’ll never be able to be super good at it.

I kinda leaned into different fields of digital art and eventually ventured into graphic design because I tend to compare myself with other artists and wanted to just do the easiest thing. At the back of my mind, I always want to be that person who can create these awesome arts that I see.

So yeah, I came to a realization and I’ve decided not to be scared anymore. I intend to learn again and do the basics until that moment I become a master of my craft. I know it’s going to be a long road literally, at least a decade or more but it’ll be worth it.

If you are a constant follower of my works, you’ll know that I started experimenting with semi-realism and stylization. I did two photomanipulations earlier this year but focused more on vector art. I wanted to practice more with realism so that I can develop my skills along the way once I go back to learning anatomy and body movements. I should’ve studied harder during my Technical Drawing course way back in university but it’s never too late. I am also interested in architectural and environmental art so I would add them to my list.

In the meantime, I would create these type of projects as I navigate my ongoing financial crisis. Once stable, I will slowly transition into personal concept arts. Long road ahead but I’m looking forward to it and also to pushing the boundaries I limit myself on.