The Touch is a meditation on the relationship between natural world and the built environment, based on the works of the architect Tadao Ando. His buildings have been a source of inspiration over the years through his use of light and natural elements that cut across industrial materials.
This project was based on photographs and references taken on a recent trip to his sites across Japan and Korea. It was conceived of as an experiment in combining 2D and 3D processes to create a seamless film that relies on a texture and a stylised low-fi visual treatment, as opposed to traditional realistic renderings of architecture.
The short focuses primarily on tone over a strict narrative, playing out more like a visual poem. The Touch currently serves as a proof-of-concept, with plans to create a more substantial piece in the future. Above is a collection of process examples as well as selected styleframes.
A special thanks to Harrison Grant for his patience and artistry as well as Ambrose for his talents in sound and composition.
Created by Derek Lau
3D Animation by Harrison Grant
Music and Sound Design by Ambrose Yu