Horizon Worlds proved to be a successful virtual world and a worthy competitor to a bit older Decentraland. That’s why it’s not surprising that new locations and occupations are created there every day, which we normally need in the real world. This time, we talked to a young creator of virtual worlds, among other things, the owner of a tattoo parlor in Horizon Worlds – Victoria known as NotoriousVIC.
Can you tell us about yourself and your professional background?
Having grown up in Knoxville, Tennessee, my expertise lies in project management and leadership development gained from my professional background. Apart from my corporate endeavors, my passion for creativity has always been a part of me, and I’m an avid enthusiast of various forms of art. Painting, drawing, and creating digital art have always been my source of joy. There was a time when I aspired to be a tattoo artist, but as fate would have it, life took me in a different direction.
What motivated you to try metaverse? How did you decide to start creating and building in Horizon?
In December 2021, I made my first Oculus purchase. While I had heard about the Metaverse, I was yet to grasp its full potential. As an enthusiast of VR technology, I was thrilled to explore its capabilities. I started by downloading Venues, which led me to discover Horizon Worlds. The idea of designing my own virtual worlds piqued my interest, and I was determined to master the art of building in this virtual realm, even though the process was gradual. I relished the challenge of creating spaces that reflected my personality and provided a haven for me. The first world I designed was the Tennessee Cabin, modeled after the cozy cabins nestled in the Smoky Mountains of my home state. As I delved deeper into the tools and techniques of scripting and building, my skills grew and I gained a greater appreciation for the art of virtual world creation.
Have you tried any other virtual worlds? How do you compare them with Horizon?
While I’ve explored other virtual worlds like VRChat and AltSpace, I haven’t attempted to build or create anything in them. However, I found them to have their own unique features. That being said, Horizon has become my go-to virtual world. The community in Horizon is exceptional, and I feel at home among like-minded individuals who share my passion for creativity and design.
What is the most challenging aspect of creating an engaging world in a virtual environment?
For me, the most challenging aspect of virtual world creation is scripting. Even though I am still a learner, I firmly believe that the quality of a world is directly proportional to the quality of its scripting. After all, the scripting is what enhances the overall user experience and makes it truly enjoyable.
Can you tell us more about MetaInk? What are your ambitions regarding it?
Meta Ink is a tattoo shop located within the Metaverse. Not only can you add tattoos and piercings to your avatar while immersed in the world, but there is also a functional tattoo machine that enables you to create your own custom designs. When I first joined Horizon, I was ecstatic to have the ability to customize my avatar to reflect my real-life appearance. However, I was disappointed to find that there was no option to add any form of body art. As someone who has over 30 tattoos in the physical world, it was a letdown to not have the same option in the Metaverse. This realization sparked the idea of creating Meta Ink, a space where individuals can express themselves through the art of body modification.
Would you mention any other interesting or innovative projects and cooperations you’ve worked on in the metaverse?
As a collaborative creator, I’ve had the privilege of working with numerous individuals within the Horizon community. I’m always open to new collaborative opportunities that allow me to showcase my skills and bring new ideas to the table. Currently, I’m invested in building and nurturing the community for HardyWorld. If you happen to visit, don’t forget to check out The Black Spades Hall!
What advice would you give to someone who is interested in becoming a creator in Horizon or other virtual environments?
The Horizon community is a vast and exciting world waiting to be explored, and connecting with like-minded individuals can be an enriching experience. However, the sheer volume of knowledge and information can be intimidating and overwhelming at first. That’s why it’s important to take things one step at a time and proceed at a comfortable pace. Don’t let the initial complexity discourage you; instead, use it as a motivation to improve your skills. Seeking feedback from other experienced members is an excellent way to refine your craft and hone your abilities. Remember, the key to success is perseverance, and with time and effort, you’ll undoubtedly progress and achieve great things in the Horizon community.