Airy space, verdant foliage and open veranda — tropical modernism has been at the heart of multitalented artist Alexander Cheah. With a flair for 3D art, photography and visual design, the Malaysia-based artist is driven by a fervent passion to push the artistic boundaries, bringing every creative idea to life. Unpretentious yet attention-riveting, his nature-inspired artworks shed light on the ravishing beauty of Mother Nature.
Could you tell us more about you?
I’m Alexander, a multi-passionate creative soul with a flair for 3D art, photography, and design. With a passion for visual storytelling, I wear multiple hats as a 3D artist, photographer, and designer. My journey led me to establish FUOR Studio, a space where imagination knows no bounds. Here, we craft immersive experiences and bring ideas to life through the lens of creativity.
What does art mean to you?
To me, art is the purest form of expression, a boundless canvas where emotions, ideas, and experiences find their voice. It embodies creative freedom, granting me the power to shape worlds, evoke emotions, and transcend limitations. Every click of the camera, every design element is a meticulous thought process, a journey through which I distill my innermost thoughts and visions into tangible, visual form. Art is my sanctuary, where imagination flourishes and authenticity reigns supreme. It’s the bridge between the tangible and the intangible, a testament to the infinite potential of human creativity.
How did you start designing 3D art? What develops your passion for it?
My journey into designing 3D art stemmed from my architectural background. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, I sought solace in creativity and decided to pick up a new skill in a 3D software, Blender. I found myself yearning to create photorealistic environments of places I longed to visit, a way to experience them virtually. My passion for 3D, then grew as I worked on exciting creative projects, as it provided the creative freedom compared to working with a 2D medium. It’s more challenging, definitely, but I could experiment a lot better and it is fun to see what the outcome is.
How would you describe your art style?
I specialize in creating art that focuses on natural environments. I aim for a realistic portrayal that brings viewers into meticulously crafted worlds. My style exudes a sense of calm and tranquility, offering a visual escape that’s both pleasing to the eye and soothing to the soul. Each piece is a deliberate composition, inviting observers to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of landscapes and surroundings.
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What inspires your works?
Nature and the depth of human feelings.
Tell us more about your creative process.
My creative process usually begins with a visual spark from photographs and art I come across. I start by mentally envisioning what would look aesthetically pleasing. Then, I dive into Blender, bringing that vision to life. Throughout the process, I constantly make adjustments, considering factors like composition and scale, ensuring that the piece comes together harmoniously. It’s a dynamic journey of turning imagination into tangible, visually appealing realities.
What are the challenges of creating 3D art?
One of the main challenges is the absence of physical touch; we’re working in a virtual space, which can be less intuitive compared to traditional art forms. Sculpting or crafting 3D objects demands practice and effort to master the tools, as it requires a different kind of skill set. It’s about honing the ability to manipulate digital elements and bring our vision to life.
Who do you look up to in terms of design?
Geoffrey Bawa.
What are your thoughts on AI?
I view AI as an additional tool that can greatly assist us in our creative endeavors. Rather than seeing it as a threat to artists, I see it as a means to achieve even better results. AI offers new possibilities and avenues for exploration in 3D art, providing us with advanced techniques and capabilities.
What’s next for you?
I’m working on growing FUOR Studio, teaming up with more brands for creative projects. I’m also keen on learning Augmented Reality when I find the time. It’s a skill I’m excited to pick up soon!
