Welcome to our inspiring interview with Erfan Aghighi, a talented 3D artist who has rapidly made a name for himself in the world of architectural visualization. With a keen eye for detail and a deep passion for design, Erfan combines technical mastery with a thoughtful, creative approach to bring architectural concepts to life. Join us as we explore his artistic journey, creative process, and the story behind his remarkable project, Tehran Canyon.
Introduction.
Please share a bit about yourself and your background as a 3D artist, your mentors, and what inspired you to pursue this career path.
My professional journey in architecture and 3D visualization began in 2021 when I joined Moment Architecture Studio, led by Ehsan Karimi and Pooneh Nasri. This collaboration offered an invaluable opportunity to partner with the esteemed firm Process Practice [Shift]. My passion for blending creativity and technology has guided me to pursue a fulfilling career in architectural visualization.
The Artist Behind the Scenes.
Could you describe your typical creative process when starting a new project, from ideation to completion?
Over the years, I've diligently studied and archived a variety of architectural photographs. When beginning a new project, I prioritize envisioning potential scenarios and lighting setups before opening any software. Collaboration is vital; I engage deeply with architects to understand their design intent, ensuring my visuals emphasize the key aspects of the project.
What tools and software do you find indispensable in your workflow, and are there any lesser-known ones you'd recommend exploring?
My go-to tools are:
- 3ds Max for modeling.
- Chaos Corona for rendering.
- AutoCAD for plan drafting.
- Rhino for complex modeling.
- Photoshop for color correction and post-production.
Combined with meticulous planning, these tools streamline my creative workflow and ensure top-quality outputs.
Project Spotlight: Tehran Canyon
Let's delve into Tehran Canyon. What was its inspiration, and what were your main challenges during its development?
The Tehran Canyon project is a collaborative effort by Process Practice [Shift], Moment Architecture Studio, and Zoj Architects. The project's central concept revolves around the dynamic interplay of form and function in an urban context.
Here's a brief from the architects: "In the Tehran Canyon project, the open central area is the main driver for the buildings' design, creating a stage for vibrant communal activities. The undulating geometry blurs the boundaries between the courtyard and the surrounding structures, connecting the architecture seamlessly to its urban environment."
The main challenge was incorporating the undulating edges of the buildings while aligning them with the existing structural slabs. This task required a balance of technical precision and creative problem-solving.
What software, renderer, and plugins did you use for this project?
I've used 3ds Max, Chaos Corona, AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop.
Were there any unique techniques or approaches you employed in this project that you haven't used before?
This project pushed me to refine my approach to integrating dynamic architectural geometry into pre-existing structural conditions, a challenge I embraced as an opportunity to grow.
Closing.
Looking back at your journey as a 3D artist, what do you consider to be your most significant milestone or achievement thus far, and why?
Patience has been my most outstanding achievement. Starting my career at 17, I was eager for immediate results, but I've learned the value of perseverance and consistent effort. Along this journey, I've also had the privilege of connecting with talented creatives who continue to inspire me.
What advice would you give to aspiring 3D artists who are just starting their careers or looking to take their skills to the next level?
Study architectural photography and follow leading ArchViz studios to understand industry standards. Patience is critical; developing expertise takes time. Lastly, seek feedback from mentors and peers to refine your work continuously.
Finally, what's next on your artistic horizon and would you like to showcase some other projects you have done?
I'm eager to explore diverse architectural styles and collaborate with prominent firms, broadening my artistic and professional horizons. Yes you can check below some of my recently finished work!
Thank you for sharing your insights and expertise with us!
About the artist
Erfan Aghighi, born on July 15, 2001, is an emerging talent in the world of architectural visualization. With a deep-rooted passion for architecture and design, Erfan has specialized in translating architectural concepts into vivid, photorealistic 3D renderings. He began his journey in 2021 and quickly gained recognition for his technical skills and artistic approach.
