Modeler Spotlight: Ryan Lau’s Award-Winning "Loading..." PG RX-78-2 Gundam

Date: 2025-03-02 19:39:00

MODELER: Ryan Lau (gunpla_enthusiast) MODEL TITLE: Loading...MODIFICATION TYPE: custom paint job, LED installation, scratch built parts, custom panel line.KITS USED: PG 1/60 RX-78-2 GundamGunPla modeler Ryan Lau (@gunpla_enthusiast) made history at GBWC12th Canada, claiming the national championship and securing a silver trophy at the GBWC12th finals in Japan. His custom-built, LED-integrated PG 1/60 RX-78-2 Gundam, titled "Loading...", is a visual and technical marvel, showcasing bold innovation, flawless execution, and stunning presentation.Despite its simple and clean aesthetics, the model's intricate engineering and artistic vision prove why it deserved to stand among the best in the world.I like its simplicity and creativity. The illusion of a floating GunPla really does bring an unreal and sci-fi effect to it. It looks like something you cannot touch—but you can, like a solid hologram.I love the techniques he used for the digital particle effects, it really looks like it’s loading from the plavsky particles. Also, even though the model isn’t animated all, it still feels like it is! That’s the magic of GunPla building—capturing motion and energy in a static form. But it doesn’t stop there. Everything about this model is just another simple yet very effective step ahead from the rest.1. Inspiration Behind "Loading..."Ryan’s inspiration came from the 2019 mobile game, Gundam Battle: Gunpla Warfare. The game’s opening screen featured an RX-78-2 Gundam enveloped in particle effects, sparking his imagination. He envisioned replicating that digital transformation in a physical GunPla build.Years later, a rewatch of Gundam Build Fighters reignited his passion. The protagonist’s father, Takeshi Iori, had built an RX-78-2 in the series. This led Ryan to conceptualize an early version of the "Plavsky Particle Chamber," blending it with his unique "loading" grid effect. The result? A stunning digitization effect that makes the Gundam appear as if it’s materializing in real time.2. Overcoming ChallengesTwo major obstacles shaped this ambitious project:Lighting the BaseCreating a fully immersive black light display took nearly a year to perfect. Ryan devised a custom LED base, integrating two LED ceiling lights and rewiring UV LED black lights around the structure. Additional UV LEDs in the front pillars ensured that the glowing effect remained visible even in well-lit environments.The "Loading" Grid EffectRyan experimented extensively with UV-reactive paints, testing scribing techniques, panel lining, and masking methods. The breakthrough came with a custom masking process—cutting precise masking squares to apply UV paint overlays on decals and armor, making the grid effect appear as if it were digitally materializing over the Gundam.3. Design BrillianceThe level of precision in custom LED integration is staggering. Ryan spent nearly a year perfecting the UV blacklight base, ensuring that the grid patterns and digital effects would glow flawlessly even in bright environments. The holographic ring encircling the Gundam is nothing short of genius, creating an illusion of a system booting up in real-time.His modifications revealed some unique aesthetics of the PG 1/60 RX-78-2 Gundam.Sealed hatch gimmicks to allow for unique and crisp panel line designs.Flawless masking and paintwork to create a convincing digital materialization effect.The RX-78-2 is the most iconic mobile suit, so Ryan carefully studied all its past iterations, integrating his favorite design elements to create a fresh yet timeless take on the legendary Gundam.4. Masterclass in Painting & FinishingThe paint job is elegant yet intricate, featuring subtle two-tone variations that add depth and realism. The strategic use of 1/144-scale decals enhances the illusion of massive scale, making the Gundam appear larger than life.The real showstopper? The UV-reactive "loading grid" effect. Ryan meticulously masked and airbrushed UV-sensitive paint onto the final assembled model, ensuring that the effect appears over decals and armor layers—a detail that elevates the build into the realm of absolute mastery.His UV CUT clear coat technique ensures that the base colors remain unaffected by the UV lights, further amplifying the contrast between glowing and non-glowing surfaces. This meticulous attention to detail makes the model look like it belongs in a high-end sci-fi film.5. A Showpiece Worthy of the World StageRyan Lau’s "Loading..." PG RX-78-2 Gundam isn’t just an award-winning GunPla—it’s another example of a benchmark for creativity and execution in the GunPla world.His attention to detail, flawless execution, and bold innovation have solidified this build as one of the most unique and unforgettable entries in GBWC history. Whether viewed from up close or afar, this is a build that commands admiration and awe.6. What’s Next for Ryan Lau?After dedicating extensive time and effort to his PG RX-78-2, Ryan plans to continue building for fun before committing to his next major project. However, he hints at the possibility of customizing a PG Zaku in the future.Whatever comes next, one thing is certain—Ryan Lau has set a new standard in GunPla artistry.A special thank you to Ryan Lau (@gunpla_enthusiast) for taking the time to share his insights and experiences with us. His passion and dedication to GunPla building continue to inspire modelers worldwide.

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