markkingsnorth writes:
3 years ago I built the 3D Shape Generator to automatically create a variety of unique 3D shapes and objects. These objects can then be used by technical artists as either a source of inspiration, a starting point for a new design, or even to quickly provide background details; it’s kind of like a 3D Rorschach test for the artistically minded.
Due to its popularity and support, the Shape Generator has evolved into an extensive tool that features customisable presets, random transformation, automatic UV mapping, and even animation.
For the latest update I got talking with Marco Iozzi, a professional who has been working in the industry since 1998 as a 3D Artist, Matte Painter and now Concept Artist on productions like Harry Potter, Elysium, Game of Thrones and is currently doing concept art and design on Thor: Love and Thunder.
He downloaded the Shape Generator to help him with his own design work.
He pointed me at Sinix Design, who provide a set of videos on the topic of Design Theory describing the best methods for creating shapes that are appealing and unique.
Sinix speaks about the concept of Big/Medium/Small; the theory that the majority of good designs can be broken down into one large main shape; a medium shape or shapes taking up a smaller amount of the design; and some smaller shapes taking up an even smaller area.
With this idea and the help of Marco’s feedback, I’ve introduced a host of improvements videos for which are linked below:
- A new integrated panel allows you to easily revisit and change your settings which now include more material controls, boolean settings, and easier to install Presets.
- New Big/Medium/Small controls allow you to follow the Design Theory to get appealing shapes.
- A new Iterator function, much like the one I coded with Chipp Walters in KIT OPS SYNTH, allows you to quickly render out countless variations to quickly let you pick a design to take forward.
- A new Bake feature allows you to combine all the individual shapes into one so you can continue to model or sculpt your chosen design to the next level of detail.
Videos about the update:
An overview of the changes are available here on YouTube:
And some detailed how-to videos are here:
I hope you find this update useful, and if you have issues with the add-on or any ideas for new features do get in touch via [email protected] or via my Blender Market page.
