Warhounds 2 Warmasters

Interview with Dan Stevens, the twisted genius behind DarkRust Miniatures

How long have you been painting (and if different – when did you start with AT?)

Starting in the early 90’s, the dark gothic style of Necromunda really inspired my early painting endeavors. As the years passed, my painting skills evolved, allowing me to experiment with different techniques and styles. I was introduced to AT around 2022 out of nostalgia to the old style models. I opted for Legio Metallica and adopted my usual dystopian approach while the dark gothic aesthetic remained the cornerstone of my style.

Do you prefer modelling or painting?

Modelling and painting often go hand in hand. For me, these two disciplines are not separate entities but rather intertwined aspects of the same creative process.

When I start a new modelling project, I let my imagination run wild. I build what inspires me, and simultaneously plan the color schemes in my mind. I envision how each colour will blend together to create an eye-catching final model.

As I delve deeper into the modelling process, I also adapt my builds relevant to how the model looks while painting. Sometimes, what looked great in my head doesn’t quite translate onto the physical model. If something doesn’t quite look right or sit within the style I envisioned, I’ll quite happily adapt and change.

How do you usually come up with your projects?

Finding inspiration can come from various sources. For me, a large part of my inspiration comes from John Blanche’s art paired with community work. Especially if I see an effective technique I believe is within my ability. The excitement of just trying it, motivates me.

Are there stages you follow?

The first step I follow when approaching a new build or Maniple is thorough research. I spend hours pouring over Instagram, arkwork, and old GW books looking for inspiration. I pay close attention to details, colors, patterns, and materials that catch my eye. By immersing myself in different sources of inspiration, I am able to gather a wide range of ideas that will help me shape the vision for the project.

Once I’ve gathered enough inspiration, I focus on a few key pieces that will serve as the foundation of the build. These key pieces can be anything from a unique weapon, a 3D printed component, or even a classic style taken from a classic model. I believe that every project should have a focal point that ties everything together. By selecting key pieces early on, I am able to build the design around them and ensure a cohesive look.

What has been your favourite project?

As a long-time fan of miniature wargaming, I have worked on countless models over the years. However, by far my favourite build has been the WarBreaker Titans by Battle Bling. The level of detail and quality of these models is unmatched, and the sheer size of the titans makes them a true centerpiece for any army.

What are you working on atm?

As you can tell for my previous answers, you guessed it.. another WarBreaker. This is my 3rd large AT scale build with an attempt to capture the essence of a Imperatrix scale Psi-Titan aptly named the Psi- Breaker.

Building the Psi-Breaker has been no easy feat. It’s required meticulously planing, precision filing, pinning and a whole lot of glue. Hopefully the end result will be something spectacular.

Sneak peaks of this, frankly insane, project were kindly provided by Dan:

What have been your favourite 3 events to attend (and why)?

Swansea Comic Con 2023
Wales first large AT scale tournament. I was relatively new to the AT scene and was swept away by the communities acceptance to new players and peoples commitment to travel relatively large distances to attend.

Once again on home ground and in its 3rd year, Duggie Douglas runs a premier AT/LI event focusing on themed battles and story driven narrative.

Twisted titanicus VI. Run by the true champions of AT, the Twisted team host numerous events from Milton Keynes. Open to all levels of experience from beginner to seasoned Princeps Seniores. Known as ‘Twisted’ events throughout the community. They regularly attract players of all levels to test their list building skills and challenge their strategies against like minded players.

Do you have any tips for AT painters on how
they can raise the quality of their work?

I like the saying “If you only do what you’ve always done, you’ll only get what you’ve always gotten” Try to create your own style by attempting new things. Keep what you’re good at and don’t be afraid to shelf what’s not going great. It’s only temporary. The most important part is having a go! I’ve parked techniques for months believing it’s not within my ability, only to catch a quick tutorial on insta, or YouTube and laugh at how easy I was going wrong!

Chat openly to the community about what is or isn’t working. No one is necessarily ‘better’ than anyone else. We’re all on the same path, some find it easy going and get ahead fast, others have been on the hobby path for a long time to get to where they are today. Just keep moving forward and follow the ultimate rule of cool! If you like it, we love it!

The truest part of quality is in repetition. The ability to reproduce cool effects and special techniques over and over.

What events are you attending this year?

100% Duggie’s LouGhar III WARBREAKER ASSUALT! That’s all I have planned for now. I’ve got my eye on a few dates for later in the year, but nothings set in stone.

For those of you wanting to see more of Dan’s beautiful work, head over to his Instagram over at: Insta- @darkrust_miniatures