I create a 3D Model from a point cloud with input of 2D images (Photogrammetry). But I soon discovered 3D objects can be created with a formula too. I experimented with Mandelbulb 3D and Xenodream and found it quite the learning curve. I persisted, however, and by leveraging one function of Xenodream, Spherical Displacement, I had the engine that produced 10s of Generative Design 3D Objects.
I nicknamed them ‘Unprintable’ since they had complex geometry and impossible, sometimes glitchy, internal geometry. I would pass them on to friends with 3D printers to test the theory, and sometimes they succeeded and presented me with a real life object. A simple formula of a few Kilobytes turned into a tangible thing. Mind Blown. But is this the Holy Grail of 3D Creation?
The Unprintable (2013)
At the same time, I experimented with Flames (JWildFire). I adore the shapes and the overall look, but it wasn’t possible or really hard to create a 3D object. And that is what I’m after.
Flames (2013)
Below is a gallery of renders made in Mandelbulb 3D. I believe most of the formula consists of ‘Amazing Surface’. Regarding creating a 3D model, it is easier, but I used the software only for rendering.
Amazing Surface (2012 - 2013)
A breakthrough happened while playing with Houdini. Here, I can import 3D scanned meshes, like people, and build a procedural node-based network to create graphically pleasing images.
After all, however, I went back to Xenodream and started creating Spherical Displacements like there was no tomorrow. The shapes below are available on CGTrader for $199.95
I went from ‘Unprintable’? to ‘Unsellable’ fast? Some of the shapes I’m selling are really successful, but the shapes I made in 2013 (at the top of this article) are still the most popular. The shapes below are on CGTrader for $399.95
To close off, let me show you my all time favorites, made in 2022. As most of my work, these are rendered in Octane.
Thanks for following me on this wild ride. See you in the next project!
Mark Florquin