For many 2D artists, the leap into 3D can feel like stepping into a labyrinth of technical hurdles and rigid geometry. But what if 3D wasn’t about perfection? What if it was about play, sketches, and the painterly soul of an image?
On Saturday afternoons, from April 25 to May 16, Wacom is thrilled to host Blender Fundamentals: The Painterly Path to 3D, a free workshop series led by artist iris muddy. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional expression and digital modeling, this series invites creators of all levels to rethink their approach to Blender.
Click here to learn more and register!
In this workshop, iris will emphasize staying playful and loose and making the most of simple building blocks. In a world of hyper-realistic renders, this series champions the sketch, encouraging students to embrace imperfection and harness the power of implying detail rather than over-defining it.
Click here to learn more and register!
Week 1: Creating Painterly 3D Artwork
Saturday, April 25, 2026
12:00pm – 2:00pm PT / 3:00pm – 5:00pm ET
We begin at the foundation. Iris will guide participants through the “digital maquette” approach, focusing on simple building blocks.
This session is all about overcoming the initial feeling of being overwhelmed in Blender by treating your 3D workspace like a sketchbook. You’ll learn go-to tools and techniques that prioritize expression over technical rigidity.
Week 2: Breathing Life and Personality into Renders
Saturday, May 2, 2026
12:00pm – 2:00pm PT / 3:00pm – 5:00pm ET
Once the “digital clay” is shaped, how do we make it feel alive? The second week shifts focus to the elements often considered secondary: lighting, cameras, and compositing.
You’ll discover how subtle shifts in atmosphere can transform a basic model into an evocative, personality-driven image.
Week 3: Building a Forest Scene
Saturday, May 9, 2026
12:00pm – 2:00pm PT / 3:00pm – 5:00pm ET
Putting theory into practice, Week 3 is a comprehensive “ground-up” build. We will utilize poly modeling, sculpting, curves, and subdivision to create a lush forest environment.
Drawing inspiration from the creative constraints of low-poly video games, Iris will show you how to achieve stunning results using limited basics and simple shapes.
Week 4: Incorporating a Simple Character
Saturday, May 16, 2026
12:00pm – 2:00pm PT / 3:00pm – 5:00pm ET
In the final session, we bring it all together by integrating a character into a nature scene. This workshop reinforces the entire workflow, demonstrating how thoughtful, simple components result in rich, expressive art.
The goal is to leave you with the “permission to play” and the confidence to continue your journey in Blender.
