I first got interested in the work of David Ho about 2001. It was around this time that I started trying my hand at digital art, and the work David was putting out was very inspiring. He uses such programs as Photoshop, Illustrator, Poser & Bryce, and since the first time I laid eyes on his work, he has only gotten better.
CM: When I was a kid I wanted to be a special effects engineer, not too far a jump to digital art. Did you want to be something that was related to what you do now, or was it vastly different?
DH: actually i never knew exactly what i wanted to be. i think it was just by chance that i became an artist. there was a time in my life i was alone quite alot and at that time, i found drawing to be a great time killer. after completing my drawings, i would look at them and feel a great sense of productivity.
CM: A steady diet of zombie movies & Hitchcock pushed me into the art I do now. Your art is both dark and surreal, what were the main things that helped you to develop your style?
DH: well i always liked art that was a little different from the main stream. i think it was HR Giger and Michael Whelans work that influenced my alot in the beginning.
CM: I know you use a mixture of Bryce, Poser & Photoshop. All programs have some limitations. If someone could design a software program specifically for you, what would it be like?
DH: thats a very interesting question. maybe they already have a software out like this already, but here it goes. i would probably want some kind of 3d scanner where i could create some creature or figure in clay, have it scanned, then have the wireframe ready in the computer for me to further manipulate and render.
CM: There’s really no cleanup when it comes to digital art, no brushes or ink to spill. Does the digital environment hinder your energy or do you work better this way?
DH: sometimes i do enjoy the smell of paints and the mess it creates. i think with the digital environment, its very suitable for commercial projects cuz it allows me to work efficiently and i can quickly adjust things when clients need a little tweaking here and there.
CM: You’re also able to work in traditional mediums, do you think this knowledge has helped to give you an edge, or imagination is the main key?
DH: for sure, i think it also helps me with composition, color, and shapes. i think every student should first learn traditional methods then delve into the digital world. with so many graphic softwares out there, its very easy to take art and all its elements for granted. for example, if traditionally i wish to draw a circle, i would either use my hand and free hand it, or use a compass. but within the computer, i could draw a circle in less than a second and not actually appreciate the true shape and curves of a circle.
CM: I could really see some of your creations as collectible figures, or vinyl toys. Have you ever been approached to do this, or would like to do so someday?
DH: that would def. be cool. no i havent been approached yet.
Well, that’s all I have to ask. If you have never done so, make sure you check out the links below. See more of David’s work, maybe pick up a print.. Looking at his work, I’m sure you can see that digital art can be very inspiring and powerful.
David Ho homepage
