Hearts streaming out of building windows. Jewelry draping across the Burj Khalifa. Larger-then-life copies of Vogue Arabia skimming over the waters of Jeddah. These visuals may sound like the stuff of dreams, but they are very much a reality — just ask visual effects artist Eva Hot, who’s slowly but surely becoming an Instagram favorite for her whimsical creations.
Photo: Courtesy Eva Hot
“My journey in the world of art began when I was very young. I loved to draw, but even more, I loved sewing and designing outfits,” Hot tells Vogue Arabia. “From the age of 5 or 6, I was convinced that I would become a famous designer and dedicate my life to it. We had an old hand-operated sewing machine at home, and I would find beautiful fabrics and try to create clothes for my dolls based on my vision. That’s when my creative journey began, and throughout the years, I never once considered stepping off that path.”
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Eventually, the young creative switched from sewing to VFX, and counts her work with Vogue Arabia among her most exciting projects of late. After having the September issue featuring Claudia Schiffer hover over Dubai’s skyline, the artist also recently created a video of Vogue Arabia’s special collaboration cover with Candice Swanepoel, which showed the issue enjoying a day out at the Saudi Red Sea.
Below, Eva Hot opens up about her creative journey and experiences.
How did you get into the world of VFX and creating 3D artworks?
My first and foremost inspiration has always been my mother, Vera. She is a talented artist who has learned everything she knows through her own hard work and hands-on experience. Her talent and perseverance have always inspired me and pushed me towards my own goals.
As I mentioned before, throughout my life until I discovered the world of 3D, I dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. I even earned a degree in this field and spent a year developing my skills. However, over time, I realized that it wasn’t exactly what I needed, and I started my self-search again. I tried photography and video editing, but none of it ignited a spark in me.
Then I came across videos online that were created using 3D and visual effects, and my eyes lit up almost instantly. I started learning more about this world and discovered how many different directions there were, and that the work was never monotonous but always creative. From the first VFX video I saw to this day, after countless projects of my own, I am still amazed at how beautifully and seamlessly a created object or artwork can be integrated into real footage to create the illusion that it exists in reality. It truly fascinates me.
Do you remember your first big project? What was it?
I clearly remember my first major project—it was both exciting and challenging. I wanted everything to be perfect. I created a video with augmented reality for a major cosmetics brand. The video featured giant mascaras flying. Every detail was crucial.
You made two incredible videos for Vogue Arabia’s September issue. What was that experience like?
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Working with the Vogue Arabia team on the September issue project was an incredibly valuable and inspiring experience. Collaborating with people who care about every tiny detail is so motivating. We planned each step carefully, from location to color tones, animation, and angles, to ensure we achieved the perfect final image—and we did.
If you had to pick, which one do you like better, and why?
I can’t choose just one—they are both unique in their own way and convey different messages. I love how the project with the balloons conveys a sense of magic and lightness, while the one with the tower is more refined and elegant.
Technology is changing the way we view the world on a daily basis. AI art has become a global phenomenon. As a creative person who works with VFX, do you see new technologies more as a helpful tool or a hindrance?
In my opinion, it’s great when a tool can make your work easier, but it should only assist, not do the majority of the work for you. Otherwise, you risk losing your connection to the art, which is first and foremost a craft, not an algorithm. We should strive to keep creating using our own talents and intellect for as long as possible so we don’t entirely hand over art to machines.
Great art often evokes a strong emotion from the viewer. What feeling or message do you hope to convey with your creations?
VFX art is all about augmented reality, and that’s its charm. Through my work, I show that any idea can be brought to life, and creativity has no limits.
What’s the best response your art has ever received?
One of the best responses I’ve received through my work is the opportunity to collaborate with brands that I love and that have inspired me for many years. Another significant outcome has been the community of artists I’ve connected with. Building relationships with others in the art world brings immense feedback and motivation to keep creating, and I’ve also had the chance to help aspiring artists on their own journeys.
Finally, what’s next for you in terms of honing your skills and developing as an artist?
In my industry, there are so many avenues to explore—from marketing to the film industry. I love this diversity. Right now, I’m focusing on honing my skills and exploring different directions. In the future, I hope to work on large and exciting projects with top brands worldwide and, perhaps, make a meaningful contribution to the world of VFX art.
