Airbrush Step by Step – July 2019

03/19 E AIRBRUSH STEP BY STEP 49

Christian Erhart | INTERVIEW

amount of reflection, I apply a matt 2k varnish when I’m
done with my work.

Does the paint manage to remain on the airplanes and heli-
copters permanently, or do you just paint over it when
need be?

Christian: Since both machines will be taken out of commis-
sion soon due to their age, this coat of paint is basically go-
ing to stay as is for the remainder of their days. And I sure
hope they’ll be finding a nice place for these machines in
the squadrons or a museum.

Do the armed forces have even more airplanes, helicopters
or other vehicles that are painted?

Christian: In addition to the already mentioned BAe Hawk,
Saab 105OE, and Alouette III, I’ve used my airbrush on a Pil-
atus PC-7, a couple of AB-212 transport helicopters (onto
which the squadron logos were added), and another Saab
105OE. I’ve also designed the helmets for some armed forc-
es pilots, technicians, air policemen, and flight rescue work-
ers. In addition, I’ve got some so-called paint schemes
planned and lined up, but I don’t want to give away too
much at this point. One of my dreams would be to airbrush
a Eurofighter!

Have you completed these projects “on official business“,

thus as part of your job as a soldier, or have you been con-

tracted as a ”an external airbrush artist“, so to speak?

Christian: Yes, there was an official order for it. So definite-

ly, it was on official soldier business.

What else do you like to paint, when you’re not busy paint-

ing aircraft?

Christian: (Laughs) All kinds of stuff, to be honest. What I

enjoy painting the most are wall designs, helmets, and

bikes.

Do you have any favorite topics/motifs?

Christian: I think portraits and animal portraits are very

cool! For me personally, they’re the top of the totem pole

when it comes to airbrushing. They’re the types of pictures

you can really “pep up”. Especially when it comes to the

eyes, there’s a whole world of creative freedom there.

Thank you so much, Christian. We really appreciate that

you’ve given us a behind-the-scenes look at this fascinating

form of art. We wish the squadrons a pleasant flight!