2D and 3D mixed street scene from Dawid Kahts on Vimeo.

Project Overview:

This personal project was a deliberate exploration to push the boundaries of skills within the realm of motion design, focusing on seamlessly integrating 2D and 3D animation. The conceptualization revolved around creating a vibrant street scene reminiscent of the iconic and stylized world of The Simpsons. The project aimed to achieve a cohesive and visually compelling fusion of 2D and 3D elements.

Low Poly 3D Building Models:

To set the stage for the animated street scene, all the buildings were meticulously modelled in Cinema 4D. The emphasis was on maintaining a low-poly aesthetic, capturing the charm of simplified forms reminiscent of The Simpsons’ distinctive visual style. This approach not only showcased technical modelling skills but also contributed to the overall cohesive look of the scene.

Integration of 2D Animated Characters:

One of the key challenges in this project was the seamless integration of 2D animated characters within the 3D environment. Hero elements, such as a skateboarder, a dog, and a lady, were animated in 2D and then cleverly imported as animated textures onto the 3D models. This innovative approach allowed the 2D characters to inhabit the 3D space seamlessly, creating a dynamic and visually engaging narrative.

Cinema 4D’s Sketch and Toon Function:

For the final rendering, the project leveraged Cinema 4D’s Sketch and Toon function. This tool served as a bridge between the 2D and 3D elements, providing a consistent and stylized look reminiscent of hand-drawn animation. The Sketch and Toon function not only preserved the integrity of the low-poly 3D models but also enhanced the overall aesthetic coherence of the entire scene.

Result: Seamless Integration of 2D and 3D:

The project’s ultimate success lay in achieving a seamless integration of 2D and 3D animation. The visual cohesiveness of the final scene demonstrated my ability to transcend traditional boundaries, merging different animation techniques to create a unified and captivating narrative. The vibrant Simpson-esque street scene became a testament to both technical proficiency and creative innovation.

Pushing Boundaries and Skill Refinement:

Beyond the visual outcome, this project encapsulated my commitment to pushing the boundaries of their skills. The deliberate effort to explore the harmonious union of 2D and 3D animation showcased not only technical prowess but also a passion for experimentation and skill refinement. As a personal project, it stands as a testament my dedication to continuous growth within the dynamic field of motion design.

Behind the scenes preview