DIGITAL EXPLORATION
Software techniques for designing with repetition, variation, and change.
REFLECT | DRAPE | BILLOW
Digital Techniques III was a paper where I discovered some new ways of working that expanded the possibilities of my designing abilities. It focused on the fertile interactions between the modular and the custom-made; between regular and irregular, between repetition and variation. It also focused on integrating more advanced software processes into my own design workflow.
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I experimented with new digital tools and software which include Rhino 7, Grasshopper, V-Ray, Autodesk Revit, Blender, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator. The following are a series of creative exercises which could be applied to the production of spaces.
LIGHT, REFLECTION, REPETITION
An introduction to Blender. These renders are inspired by the collaboration of Ralph Hotere and Bill Culbert. Privacy Screens and fluorescent lights with a series of glossy, metallic and rough finishes; playing with light, colour and reflection. I had fun playing with the colour story in these renders and seeing how the light tubes, as well as certain brightnesses, effects how they reflect on different surface colours and finishes.
DRAPE
Using my newfound knowledge of simulating fabric, I was able to pinch the cloth and create a draped curtain effect. I had a lot of fun doing this and wanted to take it further by setting a scene of an interior space. I wanted to use funky, vibrant colours inspired by the sunset. The curtain was simulated with a glossy silk-like texture to contrast the other textures in the room and make it pop.
Simulating and animating fabric using Blender. In this series, I was simulating the way fabrics falls over an object and exploiting its malleable properties. Breathability, weight, softness, and construction were all points of interest for me. One aspect in particular which I was fascinated by was the folding of fabric and viewing it from the underside to see how light passes through to the thinner parts.
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SETTING A SCENE
BILLOW
Experimenting with the kinetic properties of fabric on Blender. I simulated and experiment with different types and textures of fabric such as cotton, silk and woven textures. Applying the wind force and seeing how the fabric behaved with a slight change of direction and strength. Manipulating the movement of fabric through digital means has expanded my software capabilities and highlighted the significance and drama that movement adds to a space as it creates a dynamic atmosphere.
