Woven patterns: An interview with Kate White 🔗
Kate White is a young and inspiring 3D artist whose portfolio has a very specific and recognizable signature. Although Kate has not studied 3D and does not pursue it professionally her models are full of detail and care. Be sure to check out Kate's portfolio on BlenderKit as well as her other social networks: ArtStation, Instagram, BlenderArtists. Go and support Kate and her art.
Beginnings and inspiration
How did you get into 3D modeling?
My journey started with Youtube's suggested video about photogrammetry. I was fascinated by the possibility of creating virtual replicas of real objects. The author used Blender to preview a 3D model, so I've searched for a viewport navigation tutorial and found myself making a glowing donut. Half a year later I've stopped binge-watching Blender tutorials and started creating my own scenes.
What are some of your biggest inspirations?
I'm inspired by pretty images, mainly nature and architecture. It is hard to pinpoint something specific. Here are some of my favorites.
In 3D I lean towards Archviz. I look up to Paweł Pęcherzewski, Artur Szóstakowski, Ján Morek, Adam Zorian Radziszewski, Adrian Długosz, Mir and Aesthetica Studio.
Creative process
Can you tell us a bit about your artistic process? How do you come up with ideas for new 3D models and designs?
My Pinterest contains thousands of images which I'd really like to recreate. It is always the image I’m currently working on that speaks to me the most.
I perceive modeling as solving a puzzle - how can I make something with the tools I have, breaking down a large project into smaller, manageable tasks. Lately I've been using Geometry Nodes a lot, it is a new attractive tool I like to play with. I write simple scripts to automate some repetitive tasks. But I like manual, monotonous work too.
You often work with delicate materials such as lace. Is there a reason for that?
I found woven patterns pleasing to the eye and challenging enough to create.
Many of your designs have a meditative character and are very peaceful. What draws you to this kind of tenderness?
I like the meditative part in creating models. I think this is why I gravitate towards making macrame and wicker things.
Your color palette is also very soft and bright. What are some of your favorite colors to work with and why?
I don't have a strong preference for color. But I tend to favor faded pallets.
How much time does it take you to finalize a model?
It hugely depends on the model itself. It may easily take days or weeks.
I feel that I'm working very slowly (mostly due to lack of experience and a bit too much of perfectionism). At the beginning I was even embarrassed to report the real time it took to make a model.
What was your most complex project?
A lake house, which is still in process. I've set a high goal to make it look as similar as possible to the real one. Making almost all the assets myself takes lots of time. But it is a good practice for making models. Almost a third of my models on BlenderKit are from this project.
Future dreams and being a woman in 3D field
Do you feel that being a woman affects your career development in the 3D field?
I haven't experienced any issues so far. People I've encountered are nice, helpful and generous. What hinders my career development is me being introverted and shy.
You say that 3D is a hobby for you. What do you like about it?
The excitement of creating things, its challenging nature, constant learning and great community. As a housewife, I have lots of free time, most of which I spend in Blender.
What are some of your goals and dreams as a 3D artist?
I aspire to work in a 3D small company with passionate people where my skills will be useful.
