Ferenc Haraszti. (Art Studio).

Ferenc Haraszti, a technician at the University of North Carolina, is a digital art hobbyist whose projects are of professional caliber. Most of Haraszti's imagery is inspired by architecture, both new and old, as well as by lights and shadows--all of which play prominently within the pieces. Born in Hungary, Haraszti often incorporates imagery from his homeland into his projects. "I combine digital imaging with a more traditional look," he says. "I'm also inspired by reality as well as imagination. Sometimes it's just a strange reflection or a caustic effect on the wall that catches my attention."

Although respectful of traditional art, Haraszti finds that the digital medium is well suited to his needs. "My love for drawing will never change," he says. "But I can produce works on the computer in no time, as opposed to on the canvas--I cannot paint! That reason alone tells why I chose the computer over the canvas." To generate his projects, the part-time artist uses a variety of software, including Discreet's 3ds max and Corel's Bryce 5.

A dedicated enthusiast, Haraszti says he has no plans to pursue a career in digital art. "If it were my job," he says, "I'm not sure I would still enjoy it." Currently, Haraszti is taking a break from graphics and is spending more time with photography. "After all, it takes some experienced eyes to get the lights and shadows right in graphics," he adds. "And what would be a better way to deal with light, if not through photography?"

A sampling of ...