CM: Tell us a little about yourself.
VT: Well, I was born in 1976 in a little lovely town in the south of France near Montpellier where I grew up until 22. Because of work opportunities, I moved to Paris away from my family and old friends.

CM: What is your formal training / school background?
VT: Concerning Art - mainly from self-experimentation, observation and books. After my bachelor degree in science, I continued to study Math & Science for 3 years at the University of Sciences until I decided to stop with successful results.

CM: Your work seems to look more like a painting or illustration than a typical photo realistic rendering, is this intentional?
VT: Absolutely. I could not research hyperrealism, even if was a painter. I'm more attracted by stylized graphical work.

CM: Were you trained as a classical artist before computer? If so, what medium did you work with the most, and do you prefer working by hand over computer?
VT: As I said I'm self taught and I like to learn like this! I know there are some drawbacks but well, in this natural way, I have developed some qualities that are often forgotten in traditional schools. If I could make a beautiful original work without this training perhaps this means I have good potential, doesn't it? Well in fact, I'm now more and more away from my screen. In my free time, I take a lot of pleasure with photography -even if I’m only a beginner - and I identify with myself maybe better in my photography than in my 3d works. This technology is still not mature enough! I used to draw and I still do, but I must admit it's not my best skill. As soon as I get a bigger flat, I want to paint too. What I’m researching is simply an intuitive process to create for myself. I like to mix media and I consider myself as a kind of a craftsman of image. :)

CM: You point to Norman Rockwell's "The Dreamer" as an influence, what other artists do you look to for influences?
VT: I would say not anyone in particular except maybe observation of what is given to my eyes. Not to be original, but a few names come to my mind: Picasso, Hans Bellmer, Gustav Klimt, Henri Laurens. Photography books of Syd Mead, Gil Bruvel, Giger...

CM: Some people may criticize images like these for being "computer generated paintings". Do you think it is ironic to create such a "vintage" painted style and scene with a computer 50 years later? ?
VT: That's a good point, I would agree. The fact is when I first started on this work I wanted to create a story so it made some sense at the time. After, I was involved in some professional projects that burned all my energy and time ;)

CM: Fantasy appears to be a major part of your ideas.... where does this come from?
VT: Well, I admit to be fascinated by everything unexplained - mystery, Jules Vernes universe... I used to play Dungeons & dragons and painting metallic heroic fantasy figurines when I was younger. But to be honest, I’m more looking for a certain mixture of strangeness and humor than space ships or terrific creatures. I think it's clear in my photography works. I'm eclectic and I like to mix styles and ideas...

CM: What makes a successful 3d image in your mind?
VT: Maybe something that makes you feel and think first before you wonder how was it done. I suppose it is best is to get the opinion from people who know nothing about Computer graphics.

CM: What are your favorite digital tools (software)?
VT: Hummm... difficult to answer. Still haven't found something I could say I will still use it in 2 years. I work with SoftImage, 3DSMAX (I began with 3DStudio v2 several years ago) and MAYA for 3D work. Personally I have a preference for SoftImage. I always work closely with 2d tools and use Photoshop, Shake, Morphing tools, After Effect and Deepaint3D most of the time. Usually all is dependant to the production context and I do my best to fit in.

CM: France is one of the biggest producers of visual effects outside the USA. Any idea why? How is the demand for 3d artists there?
VT: I suppose there are some cultural and historical reasons. France has a huge resource of gifted artists, not only from France but coming from all over Europe. But still a long way to be more competitive...

CM: What is your favorite high-tech gadget of the moment?
VT: Well, I actually really enjoy my Nikon digital camera!

CM: Any small advice for aspiring 3d artists?
VT: Yah - Don't spend to much time in front of your screen ;) Be "rounded"!

CM: Thanks for your time. Keep up the good work!

Vincent's website