Animated an interactive koi pond to bring a, responsive experience to life.
In my fourth year of study, I contributed to the Radical Art Playground: an interactive installation that combines technology and art. Our team was tasked with designing a space that would respond to touch.
My role focused on creating a floor animation that became part of a larger experience.
We drew inspiration from Studio Drift, known for visualizing hidden natural processes through technology. This led to Thigmo Garden, an installation based on the concept of thigmonasty, the movement of plants triggered by physical contact. Visitors could activate flowers and visual elements that gently lit up and moved.
We drew inspiration from Studio Drift, known for visualizing hidden natural processes through technology. This led to Thigmo Garden, an installation based on the concept of thigmonasty, the movement of plants triggered by physical contact. Visitors could activate flowers and visual elements that gently lit up and moved.
In my role, I designed and animated a digital pond featuring three distinct types of koi fish: the black-and-red Hi Utsuri, the red-and-blue Shusui, and the black-and-white Shiro Bekko. I focused on creating smooth and natural movements that complemented the calming atmosphere of a Japanese water garden.
I began by drawing basic silhouettes to define the shape and movement of each koi fish. These sketches laid the foundation for a natural and balanced composition within the digital pond.
Next, I added specific features like fins, scales, and markings to give each fish character. I also designed supporting elements like lily pads and soft ripples to enhance the overall atmosphere.
Adding a calm and natural color palette, I highlighted the differences between the koi species. Each color choice supported the serene mood of the Japanese garden aesthetic.
After finishing the illustrations, I moved them into Adobe After Effects for animation. Each koi was given a gentle, gliding motion based on real-world swimming patterns, with careful attention to timing and easing so every transition felt organic.
To add depth, I overlaid a subtle ripple effect on the water. The interplay between the pond surface, lily pads, and fish created a convincing three-layer scene, making the final experience feel truly immersive. I got complements from both teachers, students and visitors.
The animation was projection-mapped onto the installation, so the digital pond became a living element that responded to every visitor touch. A looping 30-second sequence added gentle ripples and colour shifts, injecting real movement into the physical space.
Mastering new After Effects techniques in such a short period I delivered a polished result that impressed the lecturers and earned high praise for both creativity and speed.
But mostly I was the most proud of making something that it outside my comfort zone, by learning new techniques.