I have found over the years as a graphic designer, I have a need for detail. I think I am in the majority when it comes to artists of all mediums. Model builders, who are very talented artists, are the same no matter what the subject is or country they are from. It’s the details that count. We all are striving to create the best models while increasing our skill levels. That being said, how often do we look outside our community, in this case model railroading, to discover new ideas and techniques. As a graphic designer, like most, I thrive on the different, the out of the ordinary to spark imagination. Different cultures and personalities all coming together to create something grand.
There are many modelers that will build a model or an entire layout in a different scale or gauge just because it’s different. It is the challenge and the thrill of learning that drives them. I have also found these modelers to be some of the most talented individuals in our hobby. (The New Nostalgia Trip in O Scale)
Photo from www.feldbahn-modellbau.ch Models by Marcel Ackel
With so much information on the internet,
where do you start?
Well, I love to see what new and interesting ideas are coming from the European community. What a true joy to view. I know what you are thinking, I can’t read what is on the web site. Google Translator is your solution. While I cannot speak to their accuracy, I find their translation tools to be very easy to use and fast.
Photo from www.missing-lynx.com, model by Chen Ping
Another great source is military modelers. Additionally, there are some great military models and details that can easily be incorporated into our creations in both 1/87 and 1/48 scales. And some of these detail parts can rival what is available in the model railroad market. I know I am going to receive a lot of hate mail for that statement however; my thought is only to get you thinking of different avenues you may take in the creative process.
Some additional links you may find interesting:
- http://www.kostenloses-forum.com/board/index,nxu,01642644nx1878.html
- http://www.model-scene.com/index_eng.html
- http://www.modellversium.de/
- http://www.folk-rovere.org/mj/index_eng.php
