Sculpting in scale?

[Avelorn]

I have a question regarding sculpting.

Are all metal minis sculpted in scale? I think for example on the LOTR minis.. some that are sculpted very portrait-like, which seems amazing at that scale.

(I think it\'s so because of the casting technique.. but I\'m not sure)

Thanks
Sven

 

[Modderrhu]

I was measuring up a Rackham Lanyfh last night to get proportions, because I want to try some sculpting. Yes, the head does look a little large, but it\'s rather larger than it would be if it was close to being in-scale. The head to body proportion turned out to be 6.8. Classical Greek proportion is 7.5, modern measurements seem to be around 8.75. A while ago, I checked a GW Witch Elf - if her wrist was scaled up to human size, it would be as thick as her calves. Anatomic proportion is one of those areas where artists are wont to experiment to get the effect they want to achieve.

I don\'t know about the LOTR minis, but it\'s true that small details on minis need to be emphasized in order not to look out of proportion. The details like the face, hands, breasts would all be too small to be noticeable.

Edit: Oh!!!! Dumb me, I misread the question. :duh: Ignore my useless ramblings above.

 

[El Guardian]

im maybe wrong but yes, all metal and resin miniatures are scuplted on scale.

Plastic minis are done 3 times bigger, and the reduced

 

[minimaker]

The masters for metal figures are almost all the same size as the cast. The only exception I can think of those that are modelled on the computer like some of the Reaper CAV models. There the 3d print is at the same size as the cast but the computer model may be 1:1 real size so to say.

3-up and those kind of techniques can be used when doing plastic injection moulds.

Reason, well, in theory it would be possible to do a 3-up of a figure and reduce it to a smaller master and then make the mould. But this would be more costly and since sculptors are comfortable working at 28mm scale (and smaller - working on 15mm right now) why would you?

 

[Avelorn]

Okay.. Thanks for the replies!

Modelled on the computer? That seems like cheating! I hope that technique wont bring down IRL sculpting!

Modderrhu: I think that was one interesting question too..

 

[minimaker]

Origineel geplaatst door AvelornModelled on the computer? That seems like cheating! I hope that technique wont bring down IRL sculpting!

Cheating? No. Digital sculpting isn\'t easier than RL sculpting. You need the same amount of knowledge and skill. The technique used is different and will be in some cases be more suitable and others less. just depends on application and apptitude of the artist. Don\'t forget that with film monster the artists still often start with a RL sculpt that is then scanned for use in CGI instead of 3D modelling it straight away.

For mechanical things it\'s great. Have a look here: http://www.hellionproductions.com/DigitalSculpting.htm

As to modderhu\'s remarks. Proportions vary from figure to figure. It largely depends on the requirements of the company and sculptor. GW and Rackham go for stylised while Thunderbolt mountains go for realistic. By the way, if you think the LOTR range is good, have a look here: http://www.thunderboltmountain.com/

 

[No Such Agency]

A while ago, I checked a GW Witch Elf - if her wrist was scaled up to human size, it would be as thick as her calves. Anatomic proportion is one of those areas where artists are wont to experiment to get the effect they want to achieve.

Plus there is the practical consideration that these minis are sold as gaming pieces and a certain robustness is required. The delicately sculpted CMON #4 mini (aka \"Mantis Assassin\") wouldn\'t last two moves in an actual game before she lost her second amendment rights... if ya know what I mean.

 

[Avelorn]

Originally posted by minimaker

Origineel geplaatst door AvelornModelled on the computer? That seems like cheating! I hope that technique wont bring down IRL sculpting!

Cheating? No. Digital sculpting isn\'t easier than RL sculpting. You need the same amount of knowledge and skill. The technique used is different and will be in some cases be more suitable and others less. just depends on application and apptitude of the artist. Don\'t forget that with film monster the artists still often start with a RL sculpt that is then scanned for use in CGI instead of 3D modelling it straight away.

For mechanical things it\'s great. Have a look here: http://www.hellionproductions.com/DigitalSculpting.htm

As to modderhu\'s remarks. Proportions vary from figure to figure. It largely depends on the requirements of the company and sculptor. GW and Rackham go for stylised while Thunderbolt mountains go for realistic. By the way, if you think the LOTR range is good, have a look here: http://www.thunderboltmountain.com/

You still have the undo button! (I rest my case) But it demands a great amount of talent and patience to do proper 3D modelling.. that\'s for sure.

Wow.. Those thunderbolt miniatures look great. I maybe have to get me one of those.. or two. possible three..

 

[minimaker]

Origineel geplaatst door AvelornYou still have the undo button! (I rest my case)

lol That\'s absolutely true! Beats the old x-acto when having to redo a bit.