Kiba began creating computer-generated images nearly a decade ago, using 2D software before transitioning to 3D tools. Today, she mainly uses Shade Pro R4 from ExpressionTools on a Power Macintosh G3. "I started making pictures on the computer because it was interesting-it was a new tool," she says. "Now it's far easier to express my ideas using the computer than by using traditional means. For instance, I can brighten an entire image easily on the computer, but it's nearly impossible to do so on canvas. That's important to Kiba, who frequently changes colors, brightness, and camera angles while creating a project. Also, using 3D software allows her to animate her models.
A sample of Kiba's work is featured on the following pages. -Karen Moltenbrey
Sanctuary. To express the church's sanctity, the artist used soft, exaggerated lighting that's augmented with a beam of sunlight that streams through the stained glass.
Sunlight filled, softly.... For this image, the artist manipulated the lighting in Photoshop to create a rainbow effect with a slight crimson hue near the bottom for contrast.
Shibumonozuki. Roughly translated, it means "I have a taste for the simple and quiet," a concept illustrated by this image of a traditional Japanese temple, with moss and stones.
Mystique. Kiba likes to imitate techniques and ideas found in classical paintings because of their vivid expression and balance of lighting and shading. Here, she created a portrait of a mysterious woman in a dim mansion-like setting.
3:00 a.m. at Gomorrah. A man pauses at the dingy outskirts of town after a night of fun.
Dusty place. Inspired by images from Chinese mafia movies, Kiba created this imaginary character in a room filled with dust, representing the dark and hidden nature of the organization to which she belongs.