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ZBrush Sketchbooks and the Rise of Raw, Unfinished 3D Art as a Social Trend

Jul 15, 2025

Article by Aimee Gilmore

"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." (Steve Jobs)

Reference: Artificial Intelligence by Rafael Grassetti

As digital art grows and transforms, a notable shift is emerging that embraces the raw, unfinished, and process-focused aspects of 3D creation. Within the ZBrush community, in particular, early-stage sculpts and rough models, once seen simply as steps toward a final render, are now valued as complete expressions in their own right. The rise of ZBrush sketchbooks, widely shared across platforms like ArtStation, Instagram, and Discord, points to a broader cultural movement that finds inspiration in the full arc of artistic development and encourages others to pursue their creative paths, from the initial sketches and base models to the finely detailed sculpt.

Why ZBrush Makes the Process Look Great and Easy to Achieve

ZBrush, pixologic's powerful digital sculpting software, has been a key tool in film, gaming, and collectibles for years. While it is traditionally known for producing highly detailed production-ready models, the rise of the sketchbook movement has changed how artists approach it. Instead of focusing solely on polished final pieces, many now use ZBrush to quickly capture ideas, create expressive shapes, and experiment with anatomy and design.

Artists often share fast busts, unfinished creatures, or stylized anatomy studies in simple greyscale clay. These models may show brushstrokes, symmetry guides, or rough geometry. Details once seen as flaws are now embraced as part of the artwork's character. In this context, the rough and raw look is no longer considered incomplete but rather a deliberate and valued style.

Reference: Helmet Armour by Mike Nash

Why do raw, unfinished versions inspire us?

Authenticity = Understanding and Connection

People are drawn to raw and unfinished 3D art because it feels more honest and relatable. These early-stage works reveal the creative process, showing the artist's thoughts, decisions, and imperfections in a way that polished pieces often hide. This makes the work more approachable and inspiring, especially for emerging artists.

For example, Rafael Grassetti, known for his work on God of War, often shares unpolished ZBrush sculpts and anatomy studies. By showcasing his process, he connects with his audience on a deeper level and highlights the value of exploration over perfection.

Reference: God of War Norns by Rafael Grassetti

Showcasing the Process = Inspires Other Artists

Sharing early-stage 3D work reveals not only an artist's technical skill but also their dedication and the creative journey that led to it. Rough sculpts and unfinished models demonstrate that great art is developed over time through exploration and refinement. This makes the creative process feel more accessible, especially for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by polished final pieces. It reminds them that even the most talented artists start with simple forms and experiments.

There is also a growing appreciation for the story behind the art. Raw models and sketch-like studies show how ideas evolve and take shape, which is inspiring and relatable. For example, artist Jama Jurabaev, known for his concept art and 3D work, frequently shares his unfinished models and process sketches, encouraging others to embrace the creative journey and learn through experimentation.

Reference: Dud by Jama Jurabaev

Emotional Impact = Connection

Unfinished work often delivers a powerful emotional effect. Its raw quality enhances the mood, gesture, or personality of the piece without being overshadowed by intricate details or polished surfaces. This allows the core idea to shine through more vividly.

For example, artist Mike Andrew Nash frequently shares rough 3D sculpts and models that capture striking emotion and energy precisely because they remain unfinished, emphasizing feeling over refinement.

Reference: Scout from Horizon Zero Dawn by Mike Nash

Creative Freedom = Tapping into Unlimited Potential

One of the joys of creating unfinished work is the freedom it allows. In the early stages of a project, artists can experiment with new ideas, test out different concepts, and let their creativity flow without worrying about perfecting every detail. There's a sense of freedom that comes from embracing this raw, exploratory phase of creation.

Glen Southern, a highly respected 3D artist known for his work on films, video games, and his contributions to the ZBrush community, frequently shares his unfinished digital sculptures and experimental pieces. By posting raw, rough sculpts, he showcases the joy of discovery that comes from working in the early stages of a project. Huante's openness about the creative process inspires others to let go of perfectionism and embrace the freedom that comes with exploring new ideas without worrying about perfectionism.

Reference: Punik Girl by Glen Southern

Teaching Through Raw Sculpts = Reflects Real Industry Workflows

In industries such as concept art, game development, and film, rough sculpting is a fundamental part of everyday production. Artists often use blockouts, quick gesture sculpts, and early form studies to explore ideas or establish visual direction before any refinement takes place.

Teaching through raw sculpts reflects this real-world practice, where speed, clarity, and the ability to iterate are often more important than polished final results. Michael Pavlovich, a respected ZBrush educator, consistently highlights this approach in his tutorials. By working with rough models and early sculpting stages, he helps students understand core techniques and creative problem solving, better preparing them for the demands of professional workflows.

Reference: Baseball Head by Michael Pavlovich

The rise of ZBrush sketchbooks and the growing appreciation for raw, unfinished 3D art are part of a larger cultural shift that celebrates the creative process. By showcasing early-stage work, artists offer a more intimate and transparent view of how great art is created. These unfinished models encourage others to experiment, take risks, and value the journey over the destination.

For aspiring artists, this trend serves as a refreshing reminder that great art doesn't come out of nowhere; it's crafted through exploration, mistakes, and gradual improvement. The next time you see a rough, unfinished 3D model shared online, remember it's not just a work in progress. It's a creative journey, an experiment, and a celebration of the process itself. Far from being incomplete, these raw works are full of energy, emotion, and potential, and show how important every stage of the creative process is.

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