Meet Glen Hoffman | Digital Artist/Owner 3-D Squared

We had the good fortune of connecting with Glen Hoffman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Glen, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I was creating Photo Realistic renderings of Home Theaters using state of the art 3-D software. There was a wide format printer located next to our office. I would venture into the Print shop to discuss graphics and such. When I witnessed how they could print large digital files on canvass, I started contemplating that perhaps I could create some Digital Art and have it printed on the canvass. I hunkered down on my computer and started creating a portfolio of digital art. When I presented it to the printer, the feedback from him was very positive. This encouraged me to create additional pieces. I eventually became a juried member of the prestigious Boca Raton Museum Art Guild.

Now that I was exposed to the potential of large format printing, I started thinking how we can utilize this technology to print on acoustic-friendly fabrics. At that point, the technology was not quite there. However, about 2 years later, I was introduced to a new printing method that would allow us to print my images on a fabric that could be wrapped around an acoustic panel.

At this point, I created another portfolio of original art specifically for the Home Theater environment. That was about 18 years ago and I believe I’m still the only person to create art exclusively for Home Theaters.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The vast majority of my art is Digital. Once in a while, I’ll draw an item freehand. Then I’ll scan it and integrate it into the 3-D environment. My philosophy regarding Digital Art is to avoid making it look too digital or sci-fi looking. I want it to look like a traditional painting but add an element of intrigue to it.

Trying to survive as an artist is very difficult. We put our soul on display and have to learn to live with the inevitable criticism. It’s also very difficult to maintain a consistent flow of business. I’m basically working in a niche segment (Decorative Acoustic Panels) within a niche industry (Home Theater).

Demand for our products is not consistent and I’ve had to supplement my earning with other endeavors. Currently, I’m also working as Solar Energy consultant. Although this is a far cry from creating art for Home Theaters, it’s an industry that I can feel proud to be a part of. It also gives me the freedom to keep working on the Home Theater projects as they come along.

The lesson to learn is that many of us have to pivot on our paths to success. Success can be defined in many different ways. It’s hard not to look back, but we must formulate a plan to make our vision of our future a reality. Obviously, we must enjoy the ride, the future is never promised or guaranteed.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
At night time, I would take a friend to Atlantic Avenue in Delray. It has a bit of an urban feel to it. I like the energy and the vibe of Delray. It has many good restaurants and it’s also a great place to sit and people watch.

During the day, I would visit some of the fine parks we have in South Florida. I play Disc Golf and one of the great things about this is that we discover all the great park we have in the area. When we play with new players, they are amazed at how many parks we have.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My wife, Karyn,has supported my many ventures into the wide world of entrepreneurship. Some of these experiences have worked out, many have not. Throughout them all, Karyn remains a rock and guiding light throughout my life.

Website: https://home-theater-design-concepts.com/