Virtual_HG

Working on a photo studio called MashUp! There are props to interact with for the photos and also the pose balls to become part of the scene. We have three created and will be creating more soon. This is the LM if you want to stop by and see what we are working on. Special thanks to Jamie Anna Wright for the Abbey Road texture, and Clarice Alelaria for the great warehouse! virtual-hg.com:8002/MashUp/139/103/29

I catch the 3HG Studios bus today and my driver is this cool, magical troll-like guy with huge feet straddling the gas and brake pedals. He flashes this wild-eyed grin and shouts, “Get in and buckle up!”

Before I can even find my seat, he’s spinning the bus out of control and diving straight into the ocean. We’re cruising underwater, octopuses scattering as we zoom past. The troll just laughs and says, “How do you like my shortcut?” 3HG has a new adventure coming soon...stay tuned! Thank you @ferdfrederix @ferdzee @FredBeckhusen 🚌🦈🪸🦑🌊🧜🏽‍♀️

I took some time out today to visit Soda's Avedon Park, and Avedon South. Once you arrive, you'll find it nearly impossible to leave, as the allure of this enchanting place leaves an indelible mark on your heart. I found a perfect spot where I chilled a bit, it just feels like home here. Nice work Soda :)
hg.osgrid.org:80/Avedon%20Park/171/551/24

@LillySparks contributions not only advanced the technology of virtual surfing but also brought people together, creating a more vibrant and cohesive community. Her work remains a testament to the power of innovation in enhancing virtual worlds and the experiences they offer. I feel my dream is finally realized, to have quality surfing in opensim is a beautiful thing but the cohesive community is just heartwarming. Seeing Hyacinth creating her new surf region gave me total goosebumps because in SL in the beginning that is how it was, everyone was creating their surf sims, creating their teams and all coming together each month for a surf comp, we can do this too! We can create our surf sims, our teams, and have fun competitions. Lag right now might be a thang to overcome if we have lots of action other than surfing on the sim, we might have to have the competitions in a stripped down sim with just the waves and boards but there is so much hope for this!! I am over the moon excited about our future! Get out there and surf everyone and thank you, @FerdFrederix, Kayaker, Hyacinth, and Lilly and team! 🏄‍♀️💕 https://three.hills.grid.outworldz.net/index.php/opensim-s...
Image is @JamieWright shreddin'

As the day comes to a close, I couldn't let it pass without wishing a very happy birthday to someone who prefers his privacy. Your dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others is truly commendable, and your selfless work as a philanthropist speaks volumes. Though you may not seek the spotlight, your actions shine brightly in the lives you touch. Today, I celebrate you quietly, respecting your preference for understatement. May the year ahead bring you the fulfillment and happiness you deserve for all you do. Happy Birthday to a remarkable individual who makes the world a better place in the most humble and impactful ways. 🎉🎂 Thank you Ferd Frederix, I adore you. We were all blessed when you were born.

The next time you visit VHG region you will likely hear a cow moo or a lion and dragon roar! I have added the Outworldz gateways to VHG making it a 2x2 with Gateway to Dragons-Gateway to Outworldz-Gateway to Africa and we added the BS News office to the VHG Headquarters-please check the lounge while getting tanked you can get caught up on all the BS! Located on the 3rd floor
virtual-hg.com:8002/Virtual_HG/56/84/48

Alright, I have an update about how some grids can teleport into my grid and some cannot. We had a rebranding of the grid, and some grid's DNS cache is still showing the old continuum address. A clearing of the grid DNS cache should help clear up those failed teleports. I have tested with many grids and it works flawlessly to and from said grids. There are just a couple whose residents cannot teleport into our grid, after all the research it isn't our end. We have no bans on any avatar or grid. If you are at a grid and cannot teleport into VHG maybe try teleporting to Osgrid and then into VHG cause there are no issues with Osgrid to VHG. Thank you, everyone, for reaching out to me and letting me know you would like to visit, it isn't VHG end this time. http://virtual-hg.com:8002/

@Shirl Taintedangel keeps creating great .oars to share, Thank you Shirl!! Fred has just put in your drop-down list of Free Outworldz .oars the latest two .oars offered. The Permanent Vacation and Motels and Hotels!! #outworldz #shirl #oars #oar
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.

Always busy working (which I love) most of the time you will find me on a platform or a sim creating the next idea. I never really took the time out to create a "home" One day @ferdfrederix IM saying, "Hey!! I created a nice place I think you will like!" He loaded an OAR to 3HG called Rock Island, all you have to say is rocks to me and I am there! I love it so much ❣️ He had placed a perfect little tree house that makes an excellent home, thank you Ferd! I am home. Please stop by anytime to visit, there are horses to ride and really neat trails and caves!
🌳🌳🌳💗💗💗🌳🌳🌳 three.hills.grid.outworldz.net:8002/RockIsland/106/108/23

When the horses are busy, you saddle up the next best thing. 🐷 Country glam meets piggy power oink oink! @FerdFrederix thank you!! When you visit !New Silver Stirrup Stables check out the pig! 🐽🐷🐖🐽

Walking through the streets of Birch Grove during Pride month is like stepping into a vivid dreamscape. Rainbow flags sway in harmony with the breeze, adorning storefronts and lamp posts. Thank you @JamieAnnaWright for recognizing that all people matter. https://virtual-hg.com/JOpensim/index.php/2-uncategorised/...

A newly discovered supernova can be watched as it develops in real-time, online and for free.

This particular galaxy and supernova can be difficult to view in the night sky without the right conditions or telescope, however. Luckily, the Virtual Telescope Project will livestream the cosmic explosion on its website and YouTube channel as it develops via its power robotic telescopes based in Rome, Italy. The online event will kick off at 6:30 p.m. EDT (2230 GMT) on Friday, May 26 2023. Note that this event is weather dependent and could be delayed or cancelled due to poor conditions. https://www.space.com/new-supernova-pinwheel-galaxy-livest...

Virtual-HG is online again. In the next few weeks, we will be featuring you all again. If you have news to share please drop off a note in the mailbox. I am currently updating the website, thank you all very much for your support it is much appreciated.
continuum.outworldz.net:8002:Virtual_HG

I had the pleasure of visiting Peter’s build at Zweet Zurroundingz, and it truly stopped me in my tracks "again". This is one of the most visually stunning environments I’ve seen—rich with detail, atmosphere, and imagination.

From the lush plant life to the beautifully placed animals and the way the light rays bring everything to life, every corner feels thoughtfully crafted. It’s not just a build—it’s an experience.

You can tell this was created with passion and a deep eye for design. I’ve genuinely enjoyed every visit and find something new each time I return.

Congratulations, Peter. This is magnificent work.

Come check out the wonderful items Peter offers, thank you! 🦢🌺hg.osgrid.org:80:Zweet ZurroundingZ

Outworldz Hypermall is a solid resource.

Lots of content from OpenSim creators, all in one place and easy to use. If you build, you’ll find something here.

Thanks to Fred for keeping it available. Thank you Cute for the great building!

outworldz.com:9000:Outworldz Hypermall

More content here: https://outworldz.com/

three.hills.grid.outworldz.net:8002/NewSilverStirrupStables/128/128/22 Put this url in your map and check out the Silver Stirrup Stables! Pig ridin too! Silver Stirrup Stables has a beautiful barn with horses to ride!

Across the grid, you’ll find special roses placed just for you.
Touch a rose, receive a gift—simple as that.

This February, and all through the year, these roses are here to celebrate love, kindness, and small unexpected moments that make a place feel alive.

Keep an eye out.
Follow the roses.
And if you find one—know it was meant to be found. 🌹

Wrote an article this morning because I was asked how I created flowers. One method is torturing prims, and I love to use the polar array in Blender to create flowers but another is to mod by creating flowers out of neat parts! For many of us it is a passion to find cool items that are full perms and then take the parts and mod them into a new item. Virtual Upcyclers---->The Art of Modding: How OpenSim Creators Turn “Found Parts” Into New Worlds
https://virtual-hg.com/index.php/vhg-magazine/

There’s a new cop in town! Officer Judy Hopps from Zootopia has hit the grid, and you never know where she’ll turn up next. Better keep it clean—she’s watching, ears up and badge shining. Big thanks to Fred for bringing her on patrol! 🐰💓

Own your DreamGrid, own your creativity. Build captivating virtual worlds, foster a community, and be the architect of extraordinary experiences. It's not just software, it's a boundless canvas for your imagination to take flight. https://outworldz.com/outworldz_installer/Grid/ @FerdFrederix thank you!

A friend of ours passed away over the weekend. Those of you in the SL surfing community please surf a wave for Flynn Sheridan, Cie posted this:

Sad News...
Tue, Jul 25 2023 6:47:48 AM PDT

I'm sorry I have to share the news that Flynn Sheridan passed away over the weekend. Many of our friends know that he was fighting a decade long battle with cancer. Please remember him with joy and happiness. Surf a wave in his honor and consider supporting RFL. Love to you all.

RIP Flynn https://virtual-hg.com/JOpensim/index.php?option=com_conte...

Thank you @FredBeckhusen for lending me a hand with the SkyRealm Observatory! Fred finished up the major parts of the OAR tonight and when creating the sim, I loved Darkness Papp's Rivendell surround and landscaping and thought the Observatory would fit nicely there, so I merged the two and did a bit of arranging to combine the two. I still have tweaking to do but we are getting closer~Thank you!!

You really need to meet Jack and Sally! @Shirl Taintedangel has created the cutest little sim. Jack and Sallys place with a Halloween theme! Thank you Shirl! Fred is adding it today to your Outworldz Oar list. This is OAR #220!! #oar #oars #ShirlTaintedAngel #Outworldz #DreamGrid https://virtual-hg.com/JOpensim/index.php?option=com_conte...

Sally reminds me of that song Spooky, "Love is kinda crazy with a spooky little girl like you, Spooky, Spooky yeah yeah"

I rezzed him in the air, but he can be rezzed on ground and ridden. The point of this post is this project is about preserving Fred’s original Second Life creations and making selected pieces available to be enjoyed again. I have been using photoshop, Canva for years when generating ads, most people do. I’m going to leave it there. Thank you.

Even royalty from the frog kingdom can't resist a visit to Fairhaven. Watching Joan at work makes the whole village feel alive. Beautiful scene and wonderful attention to historical detail. Hay Meadow, Havenmouth, Fairhaven (80, 178, 22)

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!

Exclusive Interviews: Exploring the Creative Minds Behind OpenSim

At Virtual-HG, we believe in shining a light on the innovators, artists, and dreamers who make virtual worlds extraordinary. Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege of sitting down with some of the most influential figures in the OpenSim community — each bringing their own vision, creativity, and passion to the metaverse.

Ferd Frederix: The Dream Behind DreamGrid
In this inspiring interview, Ferd shares how a simple idea grew into DreamGrid, a platform that empowers creators to bring their visions to life with ease. His story is one of persistence, innovation, and community spirit — a reminder that even the most ambitious dreams can become reality.

Cherry Manga: Art Beyond Boundaries
A legend in virtual art, Cherry Manga opens up about her creative process, inspirations, and how she blends emotion with immersive digital experiences. This conversation goes beyond pixels — it’s about the soul of artistry in virtual spaces.

Hella Yver: Capturing Digital Magic
Through her stunning digital photography and unique perspective, Hella Yver has carved out a place as one of OpenSim’s most captivating visual storytellers. In this exclusive interview, we explore her creative journey, techniques, and the passion that drives her work.

Each of these interviews offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the minds shaping the metaverse as we know it. Whether you’re a builder, an artist, or simply a lover of virtual worlds, these conversations will leave you inspired.

Read all of our exclusive interviews at https://virtual-hg.com/index.php/vhg-magazine/ Pictured is Deb Edwards and Ferd out shopping :)

🌹 The Treasured Garden Hunt 🌹
A celebration in honor of beloved mothers.

** Update** I just placed a new rose today in honor of all the Mothers everywhere I love you 💞 I still see a few roses yet to be found, best wishes!


In every corner of the grid, roses have been hidden — each one holding a never-before-seen gift created especially for this event. This hunt honors the spirit of all mothers, who deserve to be cherished and celebrated.

Explore and discover the treasures placed lovingly throughout the grid
Each rose offers a unique surprise, never before released in OpenSim
Ongoing through Mother’s Day week, with new gifts replenished as roses are found

Join us in celebrating the beauty, love, and strength of mothers everywhere.
Because every mother is a treasure — and in the Treasured Garden, they are honored with joy.

🌹 Please note: Once a rose is taken, that gift is gone — it will be replaced with a new, unique treasure. Each gift is limited, not copied, and only a few of each will be given, making every find truly special.

three.hills.grid.outworldz.net:8002:Catena di Isole

Each year, when my favorite troll's birthday comes around, I try to honor his preference for keeping things low-key and reflecting privately. But I can’t help but celebrate him in my heart, because he means so much. He brings so much life, laughter, and spirit to this community. Thank you for being you—we love you dearly. Happy Birthday @FerdFrederix!🧌🧚🏽‍♀️🪄

In realms of code where pixels gleam,
He walks the line of dream and meme.
A playful troll, a friend so true,
Who gives his all in what he’ll do.

Among the builds, the scripts, the lore,
He stands to open every door.
With laughter quick and kindness vast,
He helps the lost find home at last.

Though avatars may jest and jest,
He holds the weight of every quest.
In virtual lands, where worlds collide,
He lifts us all with care and pride.

Behind the mask, a heart so rare,
To aid, to love, beyond compare.
We cherish you, oh digital soul,
The metaverse’s greatest troll.

When people post private conversations it does get complicated and mixed up. It was never about stealing a texture it is about coming to my Grid long enough to see the idea and take it back with you. Sure you say everyone does it and it is a form of flattery. Luna's texture is not what this is about. Perhaps the most significant aspect of this issue is the theft of ideas. Textures and assets are not just passive elements; they contribute to the overall narrative and aesthetic of a piece. When someone replicates these elements without permission, they're not just copying pixels—they're co-opting the creative vision and storytelling of the original artist. They're diluting the integrity of the work and robbing it of its unique identity.

In the digital age, where content is easily accessible and infinitely replicable, it's crucial to uphold principles of respect, integrity, and ethical conduct. Instead of focusing solely on the act of stealing textures or assets, let's shift our attention to the broader issue of respecting creative ideas and the individuals behind them. Let's foster a culture of collaboration, attribution, and appreciation—a culture where ideas are celebrated, not stolen. Because ultimately, it's not about the texture—it's about the idea. It is not okay to take free items found online and sell them on the Kitely market either. The terms say for personal use, not for commercial. To say well my clients don't know how to create the models so they buy from me, I add my purple textures and they love them. Makes no difference. Not for commercial use means just that. I see one model being sold that is questionable https://www.kitely.com/market/product/50022077/Couple-Figu... Luna shows a license and creator there which conflicts with this https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/art/the-dance-3d-model which clearly states for Private use so which license is accurate? When there is a question as to where the original came from ethically you should not resell it without knowing the original creators TOS.

...created by Jimmy Olsen of Alternate Metaverse Grid.  He has brought all the magic of the Real Life Alfheim. Please read about Jimmy's Photography contest-A magnificent place! https://virtual-hg.com/JOpensim/index.php?option=com_conte... Thank you Jimmy!! alternatemetaverse.com:8002:ALFHEIM