UNEXPECTED ERRORS

Discovery

Having once used ZBrush primarily for 3D sculpting, I chose to re-approach the software through a more exploratory lens—treating it not just as a sculpting tool, but as a platform for structural experimentation. By reinterpreting its intended functions, I developed a custom workflow that enabled me to push the boundaries of form and texture, using the existing toolset in unconventional ways to uncover new creative possibilities.

The design process will involve utilizing the fundamental tools and functions available in the software, along with establishing a structured approach to the visuals through systematic methods.

Experimenting with the System

This project stemmed from an experimental approach to ZBrush, where I reimagined the software not just as a sculpting tool, but as a system to be stress-tested creatively. By intentionally pushing the limits—using a range of brushes and extreme settings—I aimed to provoke instability and generate unpredictable visual outputs. The entire process was screen-recorded, and I curated a selection of the most visually striking moments. These glitch-driven visuals became the core artifacts of the experiment, opening new possibilities for reinterpretation across motion design, digital art, and physical installations.

Publication

To extend the impact of the experiment, the project was translated into a printed publication that functions as both a visual archive and a technical record. Each spread documents the specific brush settings, modifiers, and conditions used during the testing process—paired with high-resolution stills of the resulting visuals. The publication serves as a tactile companion to the digital exploration, offering readers a deeper understanding of the relationship between tool manipulation and generative outcomes. It invites designers and artists to reflect on process, unpredictability, and the creative potential embedded within digital ‘errors.