Bridging art and innovation in the 3D world
Discover the 3D influencers you need to follow this year: creators pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in both digital and physical spaces. While our focus at RealityMAX is on specific sectors of 3D art, it’s impossible to overlook the broader spectrum of 3D creativity.
A prime example of this is Hatsune Miku, a virtual 3D-rendered pop star. Though her domain differs from the areas we specialize in, Miku stands as a testament to the expansive possibilities of 3D technology and its cultural impact.
As we delve into our curated list of influencers, we celebrate the breadth and diversity of 3D artistry that continues to shape and inspire the world around us.
A journey through innovation and creativity
In the world of 3D design, certain individuals stand out for their exceptional talent and visionary work. They are not just artists but innovators who redefine the boundaries of digital and physical design.
Here, we present to you a curated list of 10 extraordinary 3D influencers. These artists bring a unique blend of creativity, technical skill, social media marketing and artistic vision, making them must-follows for anyone interested in the cutting edge of 3D artistry.
From mesmerizing 3D illustrations to groundbreaking furniture designs, each influencer brings something unique to the table.
Their Instagram profiles are not just showcases of their work but are also sources of inspiration and insight into the evolving trends and techniques in 3D design. Here are our top 10 best 3D influencers, follow them to witness a daily dose of innovation and keep your finger on the pulse of the latest developments in 3D art.
Polygon Runway: Revolutionizing 3D illustration and education
Few have made an impact in the world of 3D quite like Polygon Runway. Behind this influential name is Roman Klčo, a seasoned designer and illustrator with over 15 years of experience in the industry.
Polygon Runway has not only amassed an impressive following of 370,000 on Instagram but is also on the verge of reaching a remarkable milestone of half a million subscribers on YouTube.
Polygon Runway stands out for its commitment to education in the field of 3D illustration. Roman Klčo’s approach to teaching is centered on unlocking creative potential guiding learners through the illustration styles that have catapulted him to significant online success.
His courses, under the banner “Become a 3D Illustrator,” are more than just tutorials; they are pathways for enthusiasts and professionals alike to dive deep into the world of 3D art and emerge with the skills to captivate a wide audience.
His YouTube channel is not just a collection of 3D design tutorials; it’s a treasure trove of knowledge and insights gleaned from years of professional experience. Polygon Runway encourages its audience not just to learn 3D design but to offer something new and exciting to their clients.
Roman’s philosophy is about pushing the boundaries of creativity, inspiring his followers to explore and innovate in their own 3D design journeys.
With his unique blend of professional expertise and a knack for teaching, Polygon Runway is truly a beacon for anyone aspiring to make their mark in the world of 3D illustration.
Instagram: @PolygonRunway
YouTube: Polygon Runway
Ambre Donadio: A fusion of fashion, architecture, and AI in 3D design
Ambre Donadio, a visionary French designer, is making waves in the realms of conceptual art and 3D design. She stands out as a creative force in the industry with a focus that blurs fashion, architecture, and furniture design.
Ambre’s unique approach to design is further distinguished by her innovative use of artificial intelligence, which plays a pivotal role in developing her designs.
Her creations, which exhibit a seamless integration of technology and artistry, have captivated a significant audience, as evidenced by her substantial following of over 400,000 on Instagram.
This platform serves not just as a showcase for her striking and avant-garde designs but also as a window into the evolving landscape of modern 3D art, where boundaries between different creative fields are continuously being blurred.
In addition to the social media platforms for her online presence, Ambre Donadio has extended her reach to the marketplace, offering some of her unique creations on Etsy. This move allows admirers of her work to own a piece of her innovative design journey, bringing the abstract beauty of her digital art into the tangible world.
Ambre’s work is a testament to the power of blending traditional design principles with cutting-edge technologies like AI, creating a niche that is both futuristic and deeply rooted in aesthetic values. Her influence in the 3D design community is not only marked by her impressive follower count but also by the inspiring way she pushes the boundaries of what is possible in art and design.
Instagram: @AmbreDonadio
Nicky Blender: Blending artistry and education in 3D modeling
Nicky Blender, originally from Venezuela and now flourishing in Valencia, Spain, stands as a distinguished figure in the world of 3D artistry.
With an impressive following of 200,000 on Instagram and a thriving YouTube channel, Nicky has established herself as a prominent voice in the field of 3D modeling.
Her passion for multimedia engineering shines through in her work, which extends beyond 3D modeling to encompass photography and audiovisual art. This diverse skill set and her innovative spirit allow Nicky to explore new frontiers in the creative field continuously. Her adaptability and collaborative nature have been pivotal in her work on various projects, highlighting her capability to thrive in different work environments.
One of Nicky’s notable contributions is her educational outreach through her YouTube channel, where she dedicates herself to teaching the intricacies of Blender. Her goal is to make 3D modeling accessible, especially to beginners and those keen on learning the program’s functionality with a specific style. Additionally, she extends her knowledge through her Gumroad account, offering comprehensive courses in 3D modeling.
Her professional journey includes significant milestones, such as working as a modeler for the Helixa Experience project at IFEMA and engaging in various freelance projects. Collaborating with several brands and giving a talk at BCON22 further underline her expertise and influence in the 3D community. One of her crowning achievements is being featured on the Splash Screen of Blender 3.5, a testament to her skill and recognition in the field.
Nicky Blender is not just an artist but an educator and innovator, inspiring a new generation of 3D enthusiasts and professionals through her work and teachings.
Instagram: @NickyBlender
YouTube: Nicky Blender’s Channel
E.J. Hassenfratz: A beacon in the world of motion design and education
E.J. Hassenfratz stands out as a creative luminary in the motion design industry. As the Creative Director at the School of Motion, he brings an infectious passion for teaching and a commitment to making motion design education accessible.
With over 150,000 followers on Instagram, E.J. and the School of Motion have become pivotal in breaking down barriers to learning in this field.
His journey in motion design is marked by over 12 years of experience with Cinema 4D, a tool he has mastered and taught for over seven years. His website, eyedesign.com, is a treasure trove of knowledge, hosting over 150 tutorials on Cinema 4D, making it a go-to resource for beginners and seasoned professionals.
E.J. is an educator and a multi-Emmy-winning freelance motion design artist based out of Denver, Colorado. His unique flair for creating 2D-style animations within a 3D space has set him apart in the industry.
He attributes his love for art to his early days of engaging with Mario Paint and drawing anime, a passion that eventually led him to pursue a Fine Arts major. Self-taught in animation and 3D, E.J. has forged a unique path in the design world, different from many of his peers.
His philosophy at Eyedesyn is centered around making learning an integral part of life, providing tools and knowledge for lifelong learning in design and motion and computer graphics software itself. This ethos extends to his work as a Lynda.com author, where he develops project-based motion design courses. His willingness to share knowledge is not just limited to online platforms; he has spoken at conferences like NAB, Adobe Video World, and events as far as Japan.
Instagram: @EJHassenfratz
YouTube: EJ Hassenfratz’s Channel
César Pelizer: A journey through imagination and animation
Cesar Pelizer, an illustrator and animation director, is a prominent figure in the world of visual storytelling, boasting an impressive following of over 30,000 on Instagram. His career is a vivid tapestry of creativity and innovation, marked by participation in prestigious festivals and events across the globe.
Pelizer’s work has graced various international stages, showcasing his unique blend of whimsical illustration and captivating animation. Notable projects include the One Bum Cinema Club in Sussex, U.K. (2021) and his presence in the Manchester Animation Festival in Manchester, U.K. (2020). His art has been featured at the renowned Pictoplasma conference in Berlin, Germany, across several years (2013, 2015, 2018, and 2019), highlighting his recurring influence in the field.
Cesar’s global reach is further evident in his participation in festivals like the InShort Film Festival in Lagos, Nigeria (2018), Sweaty Eyeballs in Baltimore, USA (2018), and the Thessaloniki Animation Festival in Greece (2018).
Each festival and event reflects a chapter in his journey, where his animations entertained, inspired, and engaged audiences worldwide.
Cesar Pelizer is more than an animator; he is a storyteller who uses his illustrations to weave narratives that transcend language and cultural barriers. His extensive career is a testament to his skill, creativity, and the universal appeal of well-crafted animation.
Instagram: @CesarPelizer
Francisco Rossi: A pioneering art director and designer from Buenos Aires
Francisco Rossi, an Art Director from Buenos Aires, Argentina, has carved a distinct niche for himself in the digital design world. With nearly 13,000 followers on Instagram, he is a testament to the growing influence of multidisciplinary designers in the digital age.
Fran’s journey in the creative industry began in the realms of photography and computer-generated imagery (CGI) studios. During this formative period, he contributed to developing various campaigns for some of the most recognized agencies across Argentina, Latin America, and Europe. This experience laid a strong foundation for his understanding of visual aesthetics and the technical nuances of digital design.
Francisco Rossi currently embraces the role of an independent Art Director, whose focus is predominantly on 3D/CGI design. His work spans a variety of mediums, including print advertising, web, branding, and motion. This diversity showcases his versatility as a designer and reflects his ability to adapt and excel in different facets of digital art.
Fran’s approach to design is characterized by a blend of artistic vision and technical expertise, allowing him to create compelling visual narratives that resonate with a global audience. His work in 3D and CGI design stands out for its attention to detail and its seamless integration of artistic principles with the latest digital techniques.
Instagram: @FranciscoRossi
Nicole Wu: A self-taught 3D virtuoso from Melbourne
Nicole Wu, a Melbourne-based self-taught 3D artist, is a rising star in the digital art world. With over 23,000 followers on Instagram, her work is gaining traction, setting trends on social media, and redefining the standards of 3D digital artistry.
Nicole’s journey into 3D art is a story of passion, self-motivation, and sheer talent. Opting to teach herself the intricacies of 3D modeling and visualization, she has successfully carved out a unique niche in a highly competitive field. Her dedication and skill are evident in every piece she creates, making her a source of inspiration for aspiring artists.
Her expertise has caught the attention of major brands, leading her to collaborate on projects with high-profile names like Mercedes, Acer, Palladium, and Cadillac. These collaborations highlight her ability to blend creative vision with brand needs, producing results that are visually stunning and aligned with these global companies’ marketing objectives.
Nicole’s work stands out for its creative flair and technical precision, showcasing a range of styles from hyper-realistic renders to more abstract and conceptual designs. Her Instagram profile is a vibrant portfolio demonstrating the versatility and depth of her skills as a 3D artist.
Nicole Wu breaks the mold in an industry where formal training is often considered essential, proving that talent, determination, and continuous self-improvement can lead to remarkable success.
Instagram: @NicoleWu
Jeremiah Shaw: Crafting the future of design at Apple
Jeremiah Shaw, an artist and designer based in San Francisco, stands as a beacon of innovation and creativity in the world of 3D illustration, animation, and product design. His impressive career trajectory has seen him leading creative teams and contributing to a wide array of products at tech giants like Google and Dropbox and several startups.
Jeremiah is channeling his talents and experience into his work at Apple, a company renowned for its cutting-edge design and technology. His role at Apple encapsulates his expertise in blending aesthetics with functionality, creating designs that are not only visually appealing but also user-centric.
Jeremiah’s focus on 3D illustration and animation brings his designs a dynamic and engaging aspect. This, combined with his background in product design, allows him to create immersive and intuitive experiences. His work is characterized by a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of how design impacts user interaction and experience.
Jeremiah Shaw’s career is a testament to the pivotal role of designers in shaping the technological landscape. His work not only reflects his personal artistry but also underscores the importance of design in creating products that resonate with users around the globe.
Instagram: @JeremiahShaw
Greta: Pioneering digital fashion with a touch of German excellence
Greta, a German digital creator with a keen eye for digital fashion, has carved a distinct niche for herself in the rapidly evolving world of fashion technology. With an impressive following of over 22,000 on Instagram, she represents a new wave of fashion innovation, blending traditional design principles with cutting-edge digital techniques.
At the core of her work is her role in 3D product development for Marc Cain, a company renowned for its exclusive designer fashion for women since 1973. Based in Germany, Marc Cain is synonymous with high-quality, sophisticated fashion, and Greta’s contributions are a testament to the brand’s commitment to staying at the forefront of fashion innovation.
Greta’s expertise in digital fashion extends beyond mere design; it encapsulates the essence of fashion in the digital age. Her work involves creating clothing and accessories that are not just visually stunning but also technically advanced, demonstrating a harmonious blend of art and technology. Through her designs, she explores the limitless possibilities of digital creation, challenging the conventional boundaries of fashion design.
Her Instagram platform serves as a showcase of her unique digital creations, each piece reflecting her vision of the future of fashion. These creations are not just artistic expressions but also herald the potential of digital fashion to transform the fashion industry itself, especially regarding sustainability and innovation.
As the fashion world continues to evolve, Greta’s influence as a digital fashion creator places her at the forefront of this change, making her a name to watch in the realm of digital fashion design.
Instagram: @fashionx3d
Aarón Martínez: A versatile designer bridging ideas and reality
Aarón Martínez, a designer and illustrator with a rich background in industrial design, has emerged as a prominent figure in the creative world, amassing nearly 120,000 followers on Instagram. An alumnus of the Autonomous University of Mexico, Aarón has carved a distinct niche for himself through his diverse and innovative design projects.
His collaborations span across the globe, working with agencies and renowned brands such as Apple, Coca-Cola, Autodesk, Miroculus, Volkswagen, ee mobile, Nexus, and Cisco. Aarón’s portfolio is a testament to his versatility, encompassing a wide range of projects from creating characters for animation, advertising campaigns, and video games to designing art toys, packaging, and even machines for cancer detection.
At the heart of Aarón’s creations lies a deep emphasis on the process. He meticulously considers his designs’ potential uses and possibilities, ensuring that they transition seamlessly from the screen to tangible forms like stickers, toys, pins, remote-controlled cars, and prints in both 2D and 3D. This focus on the practical application of his designs sets him apart, highlighting his ability to bridge the gap between conceptual ideas and physical reality.
However, what truly drives Aarón’s professional development are his personal projects. These endeavors provide him a canvas to experiment with new techniques, materials, and workflows unbound by client briefs or limitations. His creativity and innovation shine brightest in these personal projects, pushing the boundaries of conventional design and illustrating the potential of unbridled artistic exploration.
Aarón Martínez is more than just a designer; he is a visionary who brings ideas to life, challenging the norms of design and illustration and inspiring a new generation of creators.
Instagram: @AaronMartinez
Embracing the future of design with RealityMAX
At RealityMAX, we understand the importance of staying at the forefront of these evolving trends in 3D design. By embracing the work of these influential 3D illustrators, furniture designers, and artists, we continue to explore the endless possibilities of 3D modeling.
Their contributions are shaping the present and paving the way for a future where art and technology coexist in harmony, enhancing both our digital experiences and physical surroundings.