[Sampster]

I want to learn how to do those gorgeous engines that so many people here on Sijun seem to know how to effortlessly create. I'm doing a studio art project and I have a big Machine that I want to have them.
I'm talking about the ones that look like massive glowing turbines just bursting with energy.
Yes I realize nobody is under any obligation to provide advice/tutorials, and there may be different ways of achieving the engine effect I'm looking for. But I have done some searching on my own for tutorials and I'm not coming up with anything.

Also, from what I've read from the Painter guides posted here I know I can apply (some) texture by selecting a paper type and using that as a texture for different objects. I was wondering, is there any way to apply texture, or "paint with texture" in painter the way it seems possible to paint with texture in photoshop (the way the texture just lays itself in with brushstrokes).

I feel very ignorant asking these questions, but any help would be greatly appreciated.

PS. On a completely unrelated note, does anyone else remember when someone posted their Gears of War environment artwork a while ago? I was very impressed even though i had no clue what Gears of War was...now the game has been released, and it's getting incredible reviews all across the board. Anyway congratulations to that artist on awesome work.

[Mikko K]

Well, I can't give any tips on Painter, but the GoW concept guy you're looking for is most likely Capt Flushgarden.
check www.johnwallin.net

About the turbines and machines, just look for some reference images (photos or paintings) which have something you like.. I'm not sure if there's any specific tutorial that would help here.

Good luck!