ISSUE 11 /

A PLACE TO LEARN, DISCOVER &
EXPLORE THE EVER CHANGING WORLD
WE DESIGN IN!

✍️ Henry Cheney 

We’re here to keep you inspired and informed, with a special focus on the intersection of four key areas:

Why these four? Because together, they define the future of creativity. At HBC Visual, our love for CGI has driven us to explore its transformative power across industries, and the rapid rise of AI is rewriting the rules of design.

Yet, we remain grounded in the timeless principles of creativity: the artist behind the tool will always matter.

MENTAL MUSINGS /

Last week I stepped out of my comfort zone and went to my first life drawing session.

My artistic skills tend to be better suited to less organic forms, give me a chair or a building, and I feel at home. But the human body brings so much more complexity. As a way of taking my mind off day to day stresses, this was such a freeing experience. With a supportive friend, it was truly 2 hours of idyllic mindful enjoyment.

My suggestion to you this week is to take yourself out of your comfort zone, maybe go to your first life drawing session, or book that pottery taster you’ve been thinking about.

Get creative, step away from your device, and feel something new.

CGI

In the world of CGI, it’s all about a little black cat being nominated for an Oscar, having already won a Golden Globe! Flow is a small but extraordinary animated film. If you have the chance to see it, you won't be disappointed, whether you're a cat lover or simply appreciate exceptional animated storytelling. It’s another success story for Blender.

Architecture

In the world of Architecture, Vector Architects' Wulingshan Eye Stone Spring blends industrial chic with nature. Concrete grids and circular cuts form its exterior, hiding serene interiors. Elevated, it minimizes impact on the forest. Glazed sections frame landscapes, while inside, teak and polished concrete create a tranquil, light-filled spa experience.

Design

In the world of Design, I wanted to highlight someone I’ve followed for a while now, Nicholas Baker, a product designer. There’s a certain playfulness to the designs Nick explores, a blend of modern minimalism and whimsical elements, and that’s part of what all design should embody in my mind. I particularly like watching his Instagram content as you see his ideas come to life over time. Check out his Instagram and let me know what you think.

Technology

In the world of Technology, if you haven’t seen the slightly creepy advert for the 1X Neo Gamma robot, it’s well worth watching. I promise no one gets murdered…! It’s nice to see that some design has gone into the aesthetics of the robot, and it’s less i-robot and something a bit more homely.

Doodle

Instead of relying on AI-generated images, we invite you to doodle! Sketching isn’t just for fun—it’s a way to unlock creativity and explore new ideas. Each issue, we’ll feature one doodle, and soon, we’d love to showcase your creations.

🎨 Grab a pen, unleash your imagination, and get doodling! 🎨

If you found something inspiring here, share this newsletter with a friend!

Stay curious, stay creative.

In every issue, we’ll surprise you with something new and exciting. From quirky discoveries to essential tools, our bonus content will keep you inspired and informed. So, make sure to check back each issue for your dose of unexpected delight.…🧐 

We’re starting to see it more and more in films and TV series, some people hate it, some people love it. All we know is it’s some crazy technology that’s being put to work and that’s pretty cool!

AUTHOR /

Henry Cheney is the founder of HBC Visual, a visualisation company supporting designers, architects and developers to bring their projects to life.

We value your feedback

And we’d love to hear from you—feedback and ideas are always welcome. Take a moment to let us know how we can make this newsletter even better.