Context
The brief for Transition detailed the task of creating a short animation with no words or people in, but had to show two opposing subjects. These subjects were assigned to us randomly, my two being near and far.
The Problem
I needed to plan and create a visual response that was in line with my selected prompt, something that was not too literal, but still visually explainable.
The Solution
I understood that the words near and far were contradictory, so I began to look into visuals that could make the viewers' perception contradict itself. I researched various illusions and camera tricks to achieve this effect and settled on the dolly zoom effect. The effect creates a disorienting feeling by zooming in while moving the camera backwards. I decided to create an animation using the same effect. To expand on the theme I designed and crafted a zoetrope, a pre-cinema animation device to bring the animation into a physical space. The rotation of the zoetrope further related to my prompts of near and far, as the animation physically works on a rotational mechanism.
What I did
I created a 3D animation on Blender, simulated the dolly zoom using the camera and then rendered the animation. I then prototyped, designed and laser cut a zoetrope to display parts of the animation on. I displayed this at an exhibition in The Ugly Duck gallery in London.
What I learnt
The physical is just as important as the digital. I noticed how much curiosity and excitement my zoetrope had given viewers when displayed in a physical space, showing me the importance of designing in and for physical spaces. Thinking of alternative and creative solutions to display something can be as fun for you to create as it is for the viewer to experience. I further strengthened my skills using 3D software such a Blender, and gained experience at designing, prototyping, testing and building a physical object using Adobe Illustrator and CAM.
