INDUSTRY
WEB3 / CRYPTO
CLIENT
BNB CHAIN
YEAR
2023
SKILLS
3D MODELING, VISUAL DESIGN
BNB Chain Coliseum Debate
.about
When a former mentor offered me a 3D modeling opportunity for BNB Chain, there was one catch: I had three days to deliver, and I'd never opened Blender before. The project required a futuristic, HUD-style interpretation of the Coliseum for a static Twitter post, combining complex architectural modeling with procedural styling.
The challenge wasn't just technical. This was a pivotal moment to prove I could learn industry-standard software under real-world pressure and deliver professional results. With YouTube as my crash course and determination as my fuel, I committed to making it work.
The solution centered on strategic learning: master viewport navigation first, tackle essential modeling tools second, then apply node-based materials for the futuristic aesthetic once the geometry was solid.
.my role
3D Designer | Technical Direction
3D Modeling: Constructed architectural geometry of the Coliseum in manageable sections, learning Blender's modeling workflows from scratch through targeted tutorials.
Visual Styling: Developed HUD-style aesthetic using Blender's node-based material system to create futuristic overlays and technical readouts.
Software Mastery: Self-directed learning of Blender interface, modeling tools, and procedural workflows within compressed three-day timeline.
Asset Optimization: Delivered production-ready static asset for Twitter, later creating rotation animation to showcase dimensional detail.
.challenges & process
Stage 1: Strategic Learning Under Pressure
Rather than attempting to learn everything about Blender, I identified the minimum viable toolset needed for this specific project. YouTube tutorials became my accelerated university, focusing only on techniques directly applicable to modeling the Coliseum and achieving the HUD aesthetic.
Stage 2: Systematic Skill Building
I structured the learning process like building blocks: viewport navigation became muscle memory first, then basic modeling operations, finally the node editor for materials. This methodical approach prevented overwhelm and kept momentum forward despite the compressed timeline.
Stage 3: Modular Construction Approach
Breaking the Coliseum into manageable architectural sections allowed me to iterate quickly without getting lost in complexity. Each section became a mini-lesson in Blender's modeling tools, building confidence and speed as I progressed through the structure.
Stage 4: Procedural Polish Once the base geometry was solid, I shifted focus to the HUD aesthetic through node-based materials. This procedural approach gave the static image its futuristic, technical feel while keeping the workflow flexible for final adjustments and the subsequent rotation animation.
.outcome
Successfully delivered production asset on time despite learning new software from scratch in 72 hours
Asset used in BNB Chain's official Twitter campaign reaching crypto community audience
Created additional rotation animation showcasing dimensional detail and technical execution
Proved rapid software adaptation capability, opening door to future 3D opportunities
Established credibility as 3D artist capable of delivering under pressure with zero prior experience in toolset
Built comprehensive Blender foundation that became cornerstone of expanded technical toolkit
.tools
Blender (3D modeling, procedural materials, node-based styling)
YouTube (accelerated learning resource)
