“Splendor” by Musashino Art University
Conference:
SIGGRAPH Video Review:
Track:
- 03
Title:
- Splendor
Length:
- 3:13
Company / Institution / Agency:
- Musashino Art University
Description:
Synopsis: “Splendor” is an algorithmic computer animation piece that features geometrical patterns found in Japanese traditional crafts. This work specifically focused on Kiriko (Japanese cut glass) and Kumiko (Japanese wooden lattice work). Both are characterized by expert craftsmanship featuring intricate geometrical patterns. This project used a computer algorithm to describe and recreate these traditional patterns. To simulate the traditional patterns, it focused on a technique called an L-system, which is normally used for modeling and simulating the growth of plants in the field of computer-generated imagery. An L-system can generate a string of characters by rewriting itself based upon a specific grammar. Also, by replacing the character strings with a geometry, it enables to generate complicated two- and three-dimensional structures. In addition, L-systems can easily display the process of the growing shapes as an animation. Based on the above characteristics, I was able to simulate not only the geometrical patterns of Kiriko and Kumiko, but also the process of their pattern growth. To describe the patterns using an L-system in more familiar terms, I used an approach of emulating a growing tree. I defined grammatical rules by considering the pattern of a plant growing branches from the trunk and then buds and flowers blooming from the branches. All of the patterns in this work were generated using a single L-system with a modification of the grammatical rules. The patterns created are faithful to tradition and are found in real artifacts in Japan.
