Interview with: Rubén González
When did you start modelling?
I was born in Teruel (Spain) 48 years ago and started modelling at the age of 13. I remember it vividly as if it was yesterday. My mother bought my first kits, a Spit re and a Mosquito both from Matchbox. They were in 1: 72 scale and I painted them with bright enamel colors, it was a start.
Since then I have been hooked, almost every Saturday I went to a model shop in Valencia to spend my pocket money on aircraft or small 1:72 scale mini diorama’s from Matchbox.
What is your favourite modelling subject?
Although I have done almost everything I recognize my favourite subject is land! And when I say land I mean it literally, because what really attracts me in a diorama is land. I’m passionate about this because it has a little piece of reality. It brings together all the figures, vehicles, buildings …and this has a certain atmosphere. I have no clear preference for a certain period or army etc. I like anything to which I can acclimatize my- self to, and that is almost… almost everything.
When it comes to painting or weathering what kind of paints do you prefer? Acrylics, oils or enamels?
To be honest, all of them! Each and every one of the media types is equally valid and necessary for finishing a model. It’s just a question of which to use to get the desired results and it must suit your way of painting. I use all the types of paint but I start usually with acrylics and then move on to the oils or enamels. Each type has its own specific use. What happens most of the time is a combination of acrylics and oils.
I always adapt my painting style to the results needed; it works better for me than a predetermined pattern. It’s more intuitive and that’s what I prefer.
What is your favourite technique?
What I really enjoy is not a technique but rather a stage where I can use multiple techniques. Like working with oils, washes, filters… adding stains, rust, chipping etc.
When finishing a model, does it have to be ultra realistic or can you appreciate some artistic freedom?
I’m not a ‘RAL’ modeller or anything like that. With all due respect to those who seek perfection at this level. The color is important, obviously but one has to keep in mind the combination of weather, wear and eld of operation…
One must, can and should provide some variation to create a model with character and in the end it must be fun!
I like reality, but with a good dose of freedom!