Stunning Digital Portraits of Animals Mimic Folded Paper

Russian artist Maxim Shkret possesses the incredible skill of making digital art feel as though it’s part of the natural world. Using tools and programs like Pixologic Zbursh, Vray, 3DS Max, and Photoshop, he renders stunning portraits of wild creatures. They’re part of his ongoing series of geometric animals that started last year.

All images feature a front or three-quarters view of Shkret’s subjects. Mammals like bears, foxes, horses, and wolves are all portrayed with a tactile-looking pattern that mimics folded paper. There are many small parts that make up clusters of “fur,” and together they imitate snouts, manes, and broad chests. This creates dynamic lines and shapes that give the illusion of three-dimensional forms. As a result, Shkret’s portraits don’t feel stiff. Instead, we can picture these majestic creatures on the move as their hair blows in a breeze.