Demo Reel

Fig. 1.1

Reactive locomotion algorithm demonstration.

Fig. 1.2

Final scene breakdown.

This trilogy of animations explores the emotions embodied by the elements of the coat of arms of Mexico (Figure 2.1). The snake, nopal, and Golden Mexican Eagle undergo captivating deconstruction, presented through abstract visuals that evoke their respective feelings. Procedural tools, shaders, and cloth simulations are artfully combined to create a seamless fusion of emotion and imagery (Figure 2.2). Through the interplay of light, texture, and motion, a rich tapestry of symbolism and contemporary expression emerges, offering a fresh and inventive perspective on Mexico's cultural heritage.

Fig. 3.1

Procedurally iterating the crown of thornes.

Fig. 3.2

Animation previz.

This project revolves around the endeavour of connecting the iPhone's gyroscope data to Blender using the OSC communication protocol. This innovative integration enables the translation of gyroscope data into quaternions, serving as the foundation for controlling the rotation of the marionette controller (i.e., cross).

To showcase the potential of this concept, a series of Mexican marionettes were 3D sculpted, accompanied by the creation of a comprehensive marionette rig. This rig combines rigid body dynamics, cloth simulation, and inverse kinematics to solve the marionette's pose for each frame of the animation. Careful consideration was given to ensure the system's efficiency, resulting in a lightweight setup designed to run in real-time (Figure 4.1). Such an innovative rig empowers users to animate a 3D marionette in a manner akin to manipulating a real-life counterpart—by simply rotating the controller using their phone.

Moreover, a Sombrero generating tool, known as Sombrero-Gen V.01 (Figure 4.2), was created as part of this project. This tool offers the ability to parametrically generate an infinite variety of hat shapes and models (specifically sombreros) for the marionettes. It includes a tessellation function that generates intricate weaving patterns, faithfully emulating the straw hats' unique textures and designs.

Fig. 5.1

Early render to test layered sims.

Fig. 5.2

Wireframe, AO pass, previz, final render.

This project showcases a display of animatronic eyes, presented in the signature style of Ojos Anónimos. This animation aims for realism, employing procedural shaders to achieve lifelike visuals. The engineered rig reflects mechanical accuracy, designed to be feasible for real-life replication.

To enhance the authenticity of the animation, the camera movement was carefully orchestrated using the VirtuCamera app. By connecting the position and rotation of a phone to the transformation of the 3D camera, a handheld camera effect is achieved, adding a sense of realism to the composition.

The rig itself (Figure 6.1) incorporates three controllers, enabling manipulation of the simulated 3D servo motors responsible for controlling the eye's position (yaw and pitch) as well as the mechanical eyelids' blinking motion. This intricate setup ensures a faithful representation of human eyes, effectively conveying a range of human-like emotions, blurring the boundaries between the virtual and the real.

For this project, Ojos Anónimos developed a procedural walking cycle tool (demonstrated in Figure 1.1) designed to generate reactive locomotion for biped characters. This tool enables the main character, constructed using a skeletal structure, to autonomously traverse an uneven desert environment without relying on manually keyframed animation. Through meticulous tuning, the tool achieves a natural and organic walking motion, imbuing the character with lifelike movement. Furthermore, this versatile tool holds the potential for adaptation across a wide range of characters, allowing for its seamless integration into various projects.

Figure 1.2 provides a comprehensive breakdown of the composition within the scene, highlighting the various elements involved in creating the desert environment.

Fig. 2.1

Coat of Arms of Mexico.

Fig. 2.2

Abstract visuals of deconstructed coat of arms of Mexico.

Ojos Anonimos explores procedural modelling to create a mesmerizing parametric 'Buss Down' Crown of Thorns 3D model. Modelled after the Tiffany & Co. crown made for Kendrick Lamar, this animation blends symbolism and mathematical precision.

Using the toroid knot equation as the foundation, generative details are intricately layered upon, resulting in the final crown representation. The generative tool allows for infinite variations of the crown (Figure 3.1), while a stepped-growing animation mimics the gradual growth of tree branches in mesmerizing time-lapse fashion (Figure 3.2). This project invites viewers to contemplate the symbolic power of the crown of thorns made from diamonds and gold, offering a visually captivating and thought-provoking experience

Fig. 4.1

Real time marionette control using Iphone's gyroscope input.

Fig. 4.2

Sombrero-Gen V.01 demonstration.

This project showcases a captivating animation that revolves around a lightbulb and its symbolic representation. It playfully challenges the conventional corporate motivational imagery, often featuring a lit lightbulb surrounded by unlit bulbs, which is typically used to promote individuality and creative thinking among a sea of 'unlit' individuals.

In this animation, the lightbulb takes on a different role—a metaphorical representation of a broader narrative. As the story unfolds, the lightbulb gradually heats up, eventually reaching a point of overload and exploding. This sequence serves as a thought-provoking extension of the familiar motif, exploring the consequences of intense pressure and loneliness.

To bring this animation to life, a combination of animation techniques was employed. Rigid body simulation was used to animate the shattering glass bulb, while cloth simulation captured the dynamic behaviour of the melted filament. The depiction of sparks, smoke, and fire inside the bulb was achieved through the utilization of particle systems and fire simulations. The meticulous attention to detail enhances the impact of the seemingly minor event—the explosion of a lightbulb—by emphasizing the profound emotions that can be found within even the smallest occurrences. The piece invites viewers to contemplate the complexities and potential consequences inherent in the pursuit of individuality and creative expression.

Fig. 6.1

Wire frame & Rig of animatronic eyes.

Project Notes

In order of appearance