Chapter 3

Modeling I

Creating 3D models in computer graphics is an art form and a discipline unto itself. It takes years to master and requires an understanding of form, composition, anatomy, mechanics, and gesture. It's an addictive art that never stops evolving. With a frm understanding of how the tools work, you can master the art of creating 3D models.

Maya supports three types of surfaces: polygon, NURBS, and subdivisions. Each is quite different and has strengths and weaknesses. Polygon models are constructed by attaching flat geometric shapes together to form a volume. There are few restrictions when working with polygons, and for this reason they are more popular as a modeling tool than NURBS. A NURBS surface is created by spreading a three-dimensional surface across a network of NURBS curves. NURBS and polygons are not mutually exclusive. As an artist, you can combine the two types of surfaces and take advantage of the strengths of both. Subdivision surfaces are like a hybrid of NURBS and polygon surfaces.