Archive for March 12th, 2009

Who Uses 3D Computer Animation?

Thursday, March 12th, 2009

3D computer animation

You have no doubt heard the term “animation” and the technical definition is the filming of a sequence of positions or drawings to create an illusion of motion. With the advent of computers, animation evolved from hand drawings to perhaps the most recognized forms of computer 2D animations and 3D computer animation. While the entertainment industry continues to create amazing computer generated 3D animations, what used to take a great deal of manpower, not to mention pencils, cels, etc. can now be accomplished by a single individual.

The most familiar form of 2D animations can be found by watching Saturday morning cartoons with your kids, or even simpler animations every day when you surf the web. It takes on the forms of advertisements, e-cards, etc. The basic starting point for all animations is a storyboard that lays out the basic script in a visual format, much like an extra large comic strip. From that point a rough audio track of the script is created to give animators something to sync with their drawings. This form of animation uses “vector graphics,” meaning that the images are based upon mathematical equations, rather than by an array of pixels, such as in “raster graphics.”

Due to its flexibility, 3D is what most people think of when referring to computer animation, even in general terms. Although similar in some ways to 2D animations, 3D computer animation is a different process. For example, to create animations in 3D, a scene is made long before any animation starts.

What many people do not realize is that the entertainment industry and specifically motion picture applications, while possibly being the forerunners in advancing technologies, only account for a fraction of the 3D animations market. Actually, there is very little difference between computer animation and what is called traditional animation. The main difference is the tools that are used to create animations, the effort and the price. Traditional 3D animation was more like claymations, and was done by using stop-motion filming techniques. Essentially, the true concept of 3D animations did not really catch on until the use of computers for animation became more cost effective and practical.

Who uses 3D computer animation? A partial list would include government agencies, architects, web designers, chemical companies, engineers, as well as for advertising just about every type of product imaginable. 3D animation designs sells products, teaches students and presents information in new and more understandable ways. Depending on the type of animation desired, the process can be wholly computerized or in other cases, some of the cartoon animations may still need hand-penciling work.

Bicycles Posters Remain a Popular Choice

Thursday, March 12th, 2009

Ever since the bicycle was invented in the early 1800s, this two-wheeled transporter has had a huge impact on society. Today it’s estimated there are around one billion bicycles in the world and, according to singer Katie Melua, nine million of those are in Beijing! It’s not in question that cycling remains the principal means of transport for much of the world’s population.

It was in 1817 that Karl von Drais invented his “hobby horse”, a wooden bicycle with wheels but no pedals or chain. You pushed along with your feet, but it was still faster than walking.

Around 1840 Kirkpatrick Macmillan from Scotland took the next step by adding pedals. The “Safety Bicycle”, with gears and a chain to drive the rear wheel, became popular around 1885 while the introduction of the pneumatic tyre, not long after, made a big difference to rider comfort, helping public acceptance of the new design.

But it was only in the 1930s that cycles became a popular form of transport as a result of reduced production costs coupled with higher wages.

Having played such a pivotal role in society during the last century, it’s natural that the bicycle has been – and still is – a popular subject for artists and photographers.

This has resulted in a wonderfully diverse selection of cycling posters and vintage bicycle posters, in the form of art reproductions, becoming  available to those for whom originals or limited-edition prints are simply too expensive.

Because of innovative technology and breakthroughs in digital printing, it’s now feasible to print low numbers of art reproductions at budget prices. And, while costs have come down for small print runs, the caliber of fine art prints has improved. Advanced inkjet printers using a wide array of inks can bring out brilliant, pure colors, outstanding detail and subtle hues previously only achievable with very expensive equipment.

This means the average art enthusiast now has access to modern cycling posters and vintage bicycle prints reproduced from original artwork. Reproductions are made on fade-resistant materials and often include stretched canvas prints, providing an even more authentic look.

Giclée bicycle prints (pronounced “zhee-clay”), a type of inkjet print derived from the French term meaning to spray or squirt, offer additional options. Giclée prints can be made on a variety of paper surfaces, including various finishes such as watercolor paper, stretched canvas, or artist textured vinyl.

When choosing cycling posters or vintage bicycle prints, one has various framing alternatives available that allow one to infuse the artwork with personal taste, ensuring a degree of originality. Selecting a frame that complements not only the print but also the interior design space will add hugely to one’s enjoyment of the artwork.

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Thursday, March 12th, 2009

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