Well met, space cadet, and welcome to World of Westward. What you're looking at right now is the current 3D model of the eponymous starship. This is, I believe, the fourth or fifth model of Westward that I've built since I began the project in 2010. This particular model was started in late August—I actually started working on it as I was trying to decide whether to begin writing for Page of Pulp again.
Having a 3D model of the ship was important when Westward was a comic strip as a matter of utility—I relied heavily on it for being able to produce artwork quickly. But you may ask yourself, why bother with a model if the stories are being written in long form?
The answer is something like: Westward isn't just a ship and a setting, it's really the central character. Having a model that I can manipulate and tinker with is a way for me to immerse myself in the world of Westward and virtually solidify it in my mind. As I'm writing the stories, it feels very important for me to have a mental map of where things are in relation to each other and what characters experience as they move between spaces on the ship. I also find the process of 3D modeling to be extremely therapeutic.
Outside of its utility for staging illustrations, I see some ways that the 3D model can be useful as Westward continues. In the same way that Westward is the home base and common point of reference for the characters, the model can serve as something of a common space for the readers. There is a LOT of work left to do on this model, especially in regard to fleshing out the interior; a whole world to be imagined and crafted. My vision for the model is the same as my vision for the stories; I would like it to be a collaborative effort. Something that is directly affected by the feedback and influence of the readers.
As we press forward with our goal of expanding the readership base in 2024, I'm interested to hear your ideas for how the model might play a role in those efforts. Thanks for reading and especially for being involved. Be seeing you!
I was aware you had modeled this stuff out for the comic and had assumed it felt in disuse with the new format. Really interesting not only is in use, but is in fact a new model.
I like how the elevator looks like a church dome flipped upside down.
Is that on the side some very long windows? I recall the first few Westward strips took place in the colonist deck next to some large windows. Is that where it is? If so, does it cover the entire floor of the ship window to window or is there two separate colonist decks?