Schmocktails
I like a challenge – so to power up my capabilities, supercharge my skillset and turbo boost my overall understanding of the deeper concepts of computer generated imagery, I took onboard the challenge of learning Houdini (in 2022).
Houdini is known for its powerful, procedural way of working and has the capabilities to produce simulations such as particles, fluids, smoke and cloth. Due to its procedural node based workflow, it is incredibly flexible – but also incredibly deep, with a notoriously tough learning curve. I’m proud to say that I’ve scaled that curve and yes it was tough, but I got through it, and now have a new world of possibilities laid in front of me. And best of all is that it’s already incorporated into my workflow.
The projects below are self initiated briefs all under the theme of cocktails – no ordinary cocktails obviously. They actually form the latter halves of the highly regarded Applied Houdini training series by Steven Knipping, of which I completed the entire set… twice. Why cocktails? It’s actually quite easy to think of wacky cocktails and it kept it fun and interesting while wading through some difficult material.
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Black margarita, maraschino cherries and a dried coconut, cream and sugar cloud.
Stardrifter
Inspired by the Full Moon Martini cocktail but instead of coconut ice for the moon it has iced baileys, raspberry liquor and eggnog to make a planet. The planet has an edible hologram of rings that gracefully shape-shift. All in a martini glass of Black Sambuca and Kahlua.
Ocean Breeze
A visual and audio interpretation of the Ocean Breeze cocktail!
Embryonic
It’s that desperate time in the early hours of the morning where almost all hope is lost of finding any decent booze. Then all of a sudden the stars align and you somehow remember that mini bottle of Ouzo in the back of the cupboard and how delightful it would pair with the dregs of some years old Shaoxing cooking wine and Robinson’s blackcurrant and apple squash.
Eco Worrier
Black Sambuca, Kahlúa and a chunk of the Antarctic ice shelf.
Firestarter
High proof rum and ale with a melting Amaretto sugar gel dome. Sprinkles of cinnamon ignite among the flames to add some theatre – mind those eyebrows…
Love Bomb
A twist on the Pink Lady cocktail with pomegranate infused edible hearts.
About Houdini, visual effects and what I can offer
I’m constantly developing skills and experience in this area; please feel free to get in touch and I’ll go into more detail about what I can offer and the best way to approach your project.