MERMAID PINK GIN

botanically inspired digital sculpture

Vision

Taking inspiration from a beautiful product, translating the unique combination of botanicals and celebrating the mystique and myth inherent in its name.

Producing a believable digital version of a product is one thing but creating an entirely original setting (difficult to execute in the real world) adds a totally new dimension to the imagery.

Subtle animation and caustic lighting is a gentle nod to the spirit of the ocean and the sculptural feel exudes classicism and longevity. These two elements combine to create an unusual effect which enhances the myth and legend of mermaids.

  • Grains of paradise.

  • Wild strawberries.

  • Wild samphire.

For me, the qualities that cgi can offer are shone in a greater light and enhanced when they are celebrated and married to an artistic vision – rather than just being presented as an almost real depiction of reality. 

Technical Challenges

This project combines the power and artistic freedom of multiple, leading software packages who specialise in digital sculpting, visual effects, modelling, texturing, lighting and rendering. 

Zbrush handled the sculpting. A basic model of the design was imported and worked into to give a look and feel inspired by high relief sculpture.

Substance Painter handled the texture for the sculpt and for the bottle. The scales on the bottle were originally approximated as a black and white image and then worked into in Substance using masks and blurring, to create the desired effect for the embossed bottle.

Houdini was employed to handle the movement of the samphire and strawberry leaves. A simulation wasn't necessary so some gentle noise was applied to mimic the motion of underwater plants.

Result

The outcome is a smooth and clean looking animation. Colours are kept minimal, no more than just the tones from the bottle, to allow the detail of the sculpture to breath.

Lot’s of little challenges, a sweet design brief and an opportunity to tie in multiple technical skill sets – overall I’m delighted with the outcome and ready and (even more prepared) for the next challenge.

Further information

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