Hard Surface Prop- Generac Generator

My take on a Generac Generator, using one of the newer models as reference I wanted to create something Hardsurface to challenge myself, which also felt industrial and used. The overall model keeps the integrity of the Generac benchmark but adds flair that would help this asset work in a video game. I used the Jason Ord texturing tutorial to really inspire myself to create more in-depth textures like the orange peeling paint, as well as push how much detail can be added across the asset.

I really wanted to push the narrative in this piece, despite being a relatively straightforward asset I wanted to show years of use, showcasing the build-up of dust over time, the neglect of the safety regulations causing the rusting to unprotected areas, the fingerprints set into the dust and grease of commonly used areas and the leaking fuel. I really wanted the functionality of the asset to shine through, particularly shown with the orange saucer lid and front grey console protecting the main cylinder and interior workings, while the protective hot box shows scorched edges from the heat and dust drippings carried down by being overly exposed to the outdoor elements.

If I were to do this again I would strongly consider reverting to a low-high poly workflow, despite enjoying the amount of hand painting I did on this asset, it did slow me down. Hand painting and stencilling the slanted indents on the lid was a fun thing to do, but if I had baked them down from a high-low poly I could've made better use of generators and smart masks to speed up my workflow.