Virtual_HG

Step into the creative world of artist and virtual-world pioneer Hella Yver in this exclusive interview featured in Virtual-HG. https://virtual-hg.com/index.php/2024/08/21/hella-yver-an-...
Images courtesy of Hella Yver . nadej dae/hella yver copyright 2024
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nadej/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/200746523@N07/

New Year, New Skills: Ignite Your Inner Creator in OpenSim This 2026

As the calendar flips to 2026, there's something electric in the air—a fresh start, a blank canvas waiting for your bold strokes. In the vast, ever-evolving grids of OpenSim, where imagination knows no bounds, what better time to challenge yourself? This year, let's make a pact: commit to learning one new skill that elevates your virtual world-building game. Whether you're a seasoned grid-hopper or a newbie dipping your toes into hypergrid adventures, picking up a fresh ability isn't just about adding tools to your inventory—it's about unlocking doors to entirely new realms of creativity.


Think back to those early days of OpenSim, when resources were scarce and ingenuity was king. Creators didn't wait for the perfect mesh import or the latest PBR shader; they dove in with what they had, turning simple primitives and scavenged freebies into masterpieces. It's that spirit of resourcefulness that still fuels our community today. If you've ever marveled at how a discarded texture or a forgotten sculptie can transform into something extraordinary, you're already on the path. But why stop at admiration?

2026 is your invitation to become the alchemist. One skill that's ripe for the picking—and perfectly suited to OpenSim's DIY ethos—is the art of modding. It's not about starting from scratch; it's about seeing potential in the overlooked. Remember that full-perm lamp gathering dust in your inventory? With a bit of tweaking, its base could become the foundation of a futuristic throne.
Or take a humble plant asset: stretch it, tint it green-blue, and suddenly you've got alien foliage for your sci-fi outpost. As I explored in a recent piece on turning "found parts" into new worlds, modding is like virtual recycling at its finest—it breathes life into old items and sharpens your eye for innovation.But modding is just one gateway.

Maybe scripting calls to you: imagine crafting interactive objects that respond to avatars, like a door that whispers secrets or a fountain that dances to music.

Or dive into texturing—mastering UV mapping and bump maps to make your builds pop with realism. For the bold, there's even world management: learning to tweak server settings or set up your own region could turn you from visitor to visionary host.

The beauty of OpenSim is its openness; skills here aren't locked behind paywalls. Free tutorials abound on forums, YouTube channels dedicated to virtual worlds, and even in-world classes hosted by fellow creators.Here's how to get started without overwhelm:Set a micro-goal: Don't aim to master everything at once. Pick one skill and dedicate 15 minutes a day. For modding, start by deconstructing a freebie—unlink its parts, experiment with rotations, and reassemble into something wild.

Build a "skill scrapbox": Just like a modder's inventory of shapes, curate resources. Bookmark guides, join OpenSim Discord groups, or follow creators on OpenSimWorld for inspiration.
Share your progress: Post your experiments on OpenSimWorld. Feedback from the community isn't just helpful—it's motivating. Who knows? Your first modded creation might spark someone else's journey.
Embrace the fails: Every twisted prim or glitchy script is a lesson. In OpenSim, "mistakes" often lead to the most unique discoveries.

Learning a new skill in 2026 isn't about perfection; it's about growth. In a world where we can fly, teleport, and shape reality with a click, why not level up your own abilities? You'll not only enrich your grids but also connect deeper with our vibrant community—sharing knowledge, collaborating on builds, and inspiring the next wave of creators. So, what's your new skill going to be? Grab that inventory, fire up your viewer, and let's make this year legendary. The hypergrid awaits your spark!

Sketchfab
One of the largest repositories with hundreds of thousands of free downloadable 3D models (many under Creative Commons).
Excellent for interactive previews, scans, cultural heritage, characters, and environments.
Filter by: "Downloadable" + "Free".
→ https://sketchfab.com/3d-models?features=downloadable&sort...

CGTrader (Free Section)
Over 150,000+ free 3D models in formats like OBJ, FBX, MAX, C4D, and more.
Great for game assets, PBR materials, rigged models, low-poly, and architectural items.
→ https://www.cgtrader.com/free-3d-models


Free3D
A dedicated free site with thousands of models in various formats (BLEND, OBJ, FBX, 3DS, C4D, etc.).
Categories include vehicles, architecture, furniture, fantasy, and low-poly game-ready assets.
→ https://free3d.com/
TurboSquid (Free Section)
Professional-grade models with a substantial free collection (search for "free").
High-quality assets often suitable for rendering, visualization, games, and film.
→ https://www.turbosquid.com/Search/3D-Models/free

Thingiverse
Primarily for 3D printable models (STL format), but many are useful for virtual worlds too.
Huge community-driven library of objects, tools, characters, and props.
→ https://www.thingiverse.com/

Cults3D
Excellent for 3D printing and general models (many free STL, OBJ, etc.).
Focus on detailed, printable designs, but great for props and assets.
→ https://cults3d.com/en (filter for free)

NASA 3D Resources
Free high-quality models of spacecraft, planets, astronauts, and space-related items (great for sci-fi builds).
→ https://nasa3d.arc.nasa.gov/models
Smithsonian 3D Digitization
Free museum-quality scans of artifacts, statues, historical objects, and cultural heritage items.
→ https://3d.si.edu/
itch.io (Free 3D Game Assets)
Indie-focused site with thousands of free 3D assets and packs (characters, environments, low-poly).
Perfect for game development and virtual worlds.
→ https://itch.io/game-assets/free/tag-3d

Quaternius
Completely free stylized low-poly assets (characters, nature, buildings, vehicles).
High-quality packs ideal for games and quick prototyping.
→ https://quaternius.com/

Always respect licenses — CC0 (no attribution) or public domain are safest for unrestricted use.

These sites are community favorites and regularly updated with new free content. Happy modding and world-building in the new year!

I've just completed an exclusive interview with the incredibly talented digital artist and photographer, Hella Yver. In this conversation, we delve into the creative process behind her stunning works, her inspirations, and the unique perspectives that make her art so compelling. This interview offers a rare glimpse into the mind of an artist who continues to push the boundaries of digital photography. Image courtesy of Hella Yver nadej dae/hella yver copyright 2024

https://three.hills.grid.outworldz.net/index.php/2024/08/2...



Thank you Hella 💕

Through the shimmering lens of my crystal sphere, I glimpsed a distant city ensconced in a veil of mystique. Towers of opulent architecture soared into the cerulean sky, their spires adorned with intricate carvings that whispered tales of forgotten epochs...

Look who dropped in at VHG Headquarters-He is giving me an update about the state of the Metaverse-said there is a new newspaper called BS News that is featured here at VHG Magazine causing quite the stir! Stop by the VHG Headquarters to check out Ferd Frederix BS News Lounge-get tanked while catching up on all the BS-while there please say hi to Superman!!

virtual-hg.com:8002:Virtual_HG

Let's face it, things get completely MAD in the Hypergrid.
From technology glitches to virtual relationships it can get wacky. So in this light, we thought it would be fun to share those times here with Comics so that we all can have a bit of stress relief! https://virtual-hg.com/JOpensim/index.php?option=com_conte...

@JoeBuilder has created really cool .oars that @FredBeckhusen @FerdFrederix is releasing to DreamGridders. The latest .oar just released is Dark Wood. A perfect build for your Halloween themed sims this year! If you own a DreamGrid you will find this in the Free Oar list. The OAR is licensed exclusively for use in DreamWorld Grids. CC-BY-NC, Outworldz, LLC. https://continuum.outworldz.net/JOpensim/index.php?option=...

Ever want to have your own Space Base? Created by @Fred Beckhusen and @Joe Builder Silent Refueling Base has everything you need for a working Space Base. There is a big rig carrying geoms. A CH-47D Chinook v1.0 USCG, C5 Galaxy, Towers, Satellite Dishes all the vehicles you will need too! When I asked Fred about it he said "What it might look launching the Valley Forge into space. The movie "Silent Running", with Bruce Dern, did not show this part. It is fan fiction, and has the same Aircraft Carrier "USN Valley Forge" they used as a movie set." If you would like to visit the original base please find it here

Please add this to your map: www.outworldz.com:9000:Silent Refueling Base
You will find it in your drop down list of Outworldz free .oars. Thank you @Fred Beckhusen #oar #oars #ferdfrederix#fred #JoeBuilder

Outworldz-DreamGrid .oars
Fred Beckhusen designs and creates .oars to share with his Outworldz-Dreamgrid members. The OAR is licensed exclusively for use in DreamWorld Grids. CC-BY-NC, Outworldz, LLC.

I asked Nyx Breen if he would like to join our exhibit and display his work too at Mind Odyssey, to my delight he has accepted and will be working on his exhibit in the coming days. Thank you, Nyx.

https://continuum.outworldz.net/JOpensim/index.php?option=...

New version 7.2103 is the most secure Opensim anywhere, and has a useful new feature to save your CPU. https://www.reddit.com/r/DreamGrid/comments/1tsk71u/new_ve...

Virunga is a powerful and immersive tribute to Dian Fossey, blending education, storytelling, and exploration into one unforgettable experience. From the wildlife to the scripted interactions, every detail invites you to step into her world and truly appreciate the legacy she left behind. Thank you for sharing this magnificent build, well done! @DebbieEdwards and @FerdFrederix When visiting make sure to leave Debbie and Ferd a nice note! www.outworldz.com:9000:Outworldz Virunga

Another stop this morning is Fianna Rua by @JamieWright it is a masterclass in realism—every detail is carefully placed, and it shows. The town feels alive, from the working harbor to the buildings and atmosphere that pull you right into the scene. Jamie never cuts corners, and this is another beautifully crafted environment that’s a pleasure to explore. Looking forward to tasting the Fresh seafood chowder and Irish stew :) Well done Anna! groovyverse.com:8002:Fianna Rua

Outworldz: Build Bigger, Create Freely

Looking for the tools to power your virtual world? Outworldz offers one of the largest free libraries for OpenSim creators. Explore thousands of resources ready to drop into your build:

Scripts – tested and shared by the community, covering everything from vehicles to NPCs.

Meshes & DAE files – detailed models you can customize and re-use without cost.

Animations & AOs – bring avatars and objects to life with smooth, ready-to-use motion.

Textures & Sculpt Maps – endless variety for landscapes, clothing, and objects.

Every resource is free, contributed by hundreds of creators who believe in open sharing. Whether you’re designing a region, building interactive games, or just experimenting, you’ll find what you need at Outworldz.

Discover the collection. Create without limits.
https://outworldz.com

Thank you @ferdfrederix !

Looking for a place to share your builds, get tips, and connect with fellow DreamGrid owners? Our Reddit community is the perfect hub for region news, images, troubleshooting, and creative discussions. Join us and be part of the DreamGrid adventure! https://www.reddit.com/r/DreamGrid/

Looking for a place to share your builds, get tips, and connect with fellow DreamGrid owners? Our Reddit community is the perfect hub for region news, images, troubleshooting, and creative discussions. Join us and be part of the DreamGrid adventure! https://www.reddit.com/r/DreamGrid/

Outworldz Dreamgrid - Create, explore, and own your virtual spaces with ease on a private server. Perfect for roleplay, education, or building your dream universe—no coding required.
Join the community of creators today at Outworldz.com https://outworldz.com/Outworldz_installer/
https://outworldz.com/outworldz_installer/Grid/Dreamgrid%2...
Image featured is @FerdFrederix Alexandria www.outworldz.com:9000:Outworldz Alexandria

Taken by Harper.Held @admeja.bounceme.net:8002 at Digleberry Dump - A hidden valley of treasures, Dingleberry Dump "The Dump is Jumping"

Pictured is Harper Held, Hanks, Jamie Anna Wright, and Dexter Dung Beetle (Hyacinth is present making sure everyone is set) thank you Hy! Snik came out, Wendie, Prim, Enoch so many if I did not list you I apologize just know I love you very much! https://opensimworld.com/groups/1078

A question I often get asked is, "Why are some OARS exclusive for Dreamgridders only, I thought this was a free and opensource platform with sharing?" Yes it is however, the reason some OARs are exclusive to DreamGrid users is that they contain purchased items with licenses that must be respected. Or the Creators of these OARS only offered them to Dreamgridders it is their license to share with us exclusively. By limiting the distribution of these OARs to the DreamGrid platform, we ensure that we are honoring those licensing agreements.

"If a copyright is not enforced then it is worthless. I have paid tens of thousands for exclusive rights" Fred Beckhusen

Welcome to Etheria Grid (E Grid) to the VHG Gateways!!

You will find E Grid in the chain of islands. Next time you visit VHG please check out the gateways to various grids in the Hypergrid! Please contact me if you would like to add your gateway.

Have you heard of the Opensource Blender Video Game Yo Frankie!? Fred has created a game using all the parts of Yo Frankie! Please read about it here -------> https://virtual-hg.com/JOpensim/index.php/2-uncategorised/...

oops, I am so sorry! About 10 months ago, there was a glitch in the database here at OSW and it removed most of my friends. Satyr got it all restored fine he asked me to check and see if friends were back on the list. It looked to be complete I apologize if I missed a few, but I looked, and yes everyone (I hope) was there but I did not see that some were blocked!!!! I am so sorry! I spent the last half hour unblocking you guys can toss the tomatoes at me any time. I wondered why my chats got so quiet lmao Sorry!!

@FredBeckhusen and @DebbieEdwards invite you to visit Mother Goose at Outworldz. I have been here this morning capturing images and exploring all that is created here. You will see the Zootopia character Jeremy here too. Make sure you take some time out today and check out their Outworldz sims. https://virtual-hg.com/Jopensim/index.php/2-uncategorised/... www.outworldz.com:9000:MotherGoose

outworldz.com:9000:MotherGoose

@Darkness Papp has created the perfect Island for all you lily-livers! Great for Pirating Roleplay!
Fred is releasing BlackBeards 4x4 .oar file you will find it in your drop-down list of free Outworldz Oars. #oars #oar #DarknessPapp #outworldz #fred #fredbeckhusen #ferdfrederix
https://continuum.outworldz.net/JOpensim/index.php?option=...

Outworldz-DreamGrid .oars
Fred Beckhusen designs and creates .oars to share with his Outworldz-Dreamgrid members. The OAR is licensed exclusively for use in DreamWorld Grids. CC-BY-NC, Outworldz, LLC. https://outworldz.com/

Step into Virtual-HG.com, the official story window into the Three Hills Grid.
It’s where explorers, creators, and the just-plain-curious come to see what’s growing, glowing, and evolving across 3HG. https://virtual-hg.com/

Virtual-HG News is Back Online!
The Virtual-HG news website has been updated and is now live with some new features—and yes, our beloved BS News is back with its own dedicated page! Come have a laugh and see what’s new: https://virtual-hg.com/index.php/bullshit-news/

https://virtual-hg.com/

I still have to add many of the Exclusive Interviews it is an ongoing process as I have time, thank you all for your support.

In the garden of humanity, where colors bloom so bright,
We find a world of wonders, bathed in love and light.
Each petal tells a story, each leaf a tender song,
A tapestry of beauty where every soul belongs.

No shadows of division, no whispers of disdain,
For in this sacred garden, no hearts are left in pain.
We cherish every blossom, each unique and rare,
In this dance of unity, where love is in the air.

From the mountains to the valleys, across the rolling sea,
We celebrate our differences, in joyful harmony.
Hand in hand we journey, in a bond so pure and true,
For in our shared humanity, there's room for me and you.

No place for hateful slander, no room for racist spite,
We lift each other higher, in the warmth of shared light.
We break the chains of prejudice, we shatter walls of fear,
In this circle of compassion, all voices we will hear.

With hearts unconditionally open, and spirits intertwined,
We forge a path of kindness, where no one is maligned.
For in the end, we're family, beneath the stars above,
In a world that thrives on unity, and the power of pure love.

💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗

Sometimes, making a statement doesn't require over-the-top constructions. More gold and grandiosity don't necessarily equate to greater impact. In fact, larger, huge builds often miss the mark when it comes to creating a truly inviting atmosphere. Quaint spaces, thoughtfully designed with lush gardens and personal touches, can be far more welcoming and impactful.

A well-curated garden, with its vibrant blooms and serene pathways, speaks volumes. The delicate balance of nature and human touch creates an environment that feels alive and nurturing. It's not the size or extravagance of a place that leaves a lasting impression, but the care and thought put into its design.

Such spaces offer a sense of intimacy and warmth, inviting visitors to linger and connect with their surroundings. The charm of a cozy, beautifully tended garden can evoke feelings of peace and contentment, making people feel at home. In contrast, grandiose builds, though impressive at first glance, can often feel cold and impersonal.

Moreover, smaller, more personal spaces can reflect the unique personality and values of their creators. They allow for creative expression in ways that grand builds might not, making them memorable for their originality and heart. In essence, a quaint space with lush gardens is not just a place to see, but a place to feel—a testament to the idea that sometimes, less truly is more. This is Xanth, my little workshop cottage https://youtu.be/H3DRTQUpMS8?si=T8rVMUtisNcqiQnH Everyone is welcome : three.hill.grid.outworldz.net:8002/Xanth/158/49/22

Exploring Outworldz Grid by Ferd Frederix is a captivating journey through a virtual realm that spans an array of diverse and imaginative landscapes. From the enchanting realms of Mother Goose to the awe-inspiring beauty of Virunga, each sim curated by Ferd Frederix offers a unique and immersive experience. The creativity and attention to detail in these virtual environments are truly remarkable, transporting visitors to worlds inspired by fairy tales, historical wonders, and natural wonders. Alexandria, for example, beckons with its historical charm and architectural splendor, while countless other sims promise equally engaging adventures. Ferd Frederix's curation skillfully blends artistry and technology, providing a platform for users to escape reality and explore the boundless possibilities of virtual landscapes. Whether strolling through the quaint streets of Mother Goose or marveling at the majestic landscapes of Virunga, the Outworldz Grid is a testament to the limitless potential of virtual worlds, inviting all to embark on a journey of discovery and wonder. www.outworldz.com:9000:Outworldz Welcome