Art studio.

"I have been an artist since I was a child," says professional digital artist J.L. Mendez of Tenerife, Spain, who creates CG "paintings" under the moniker Atman Victor. What began as a creative outlet and a method of achieving a higher grade average in school soon turned into a passion that still burns inside Victor today.

Victor considers himself a fine artist who happens to use the computer to create his works, as it offers a world full of endless possibilities. "With the computer, you can emulate traditional media and any kind of technique ever known. It all depends on your skills." Victor's digital palette consists of many 3D software programs, including Autodesk's AutoCAD and Discreet's 3ds max, though he feels especially comfortable using 2D programs such as Adobe Systems' Photoshop, Corel's Painter and Bryce, and Curious Labs' Poser. "My main goal is to produce art, not a high-tech design," he notes.

Over the years, Victor has tried numerous styles, and currently he is particularly drawn toward social criticism expressed in surrealistic fashion and a quest for a new type of digital abstractionism. Yet, no matter the style, Victor's artwork has earned him many international accolades, including honorary mentions from worldwide digital art contests such as the Asia Digital Art Awards. In addition, his digital pieces have been featured in countless group and solo exhibitions, the more recent being at the 12th International Biennial of Cerveira (Portugal), Gallery ...