For Beyond Fashion 2023, an annual student-run fashion show at RIT, I led a team of three to create dynamic visual content for designer Pat Pauly's collection. Our challenge was to develop a comprehensive visual package that would enhance the runway experience while complementing the designer's unique hand-dyed fabric creations. This project demanded a seamless blend of creative vision and technical expertise, executed within a tight three-week timeline.
Our approach began with an on-site visit to Pat Pauly's Rochester studio, immersing ourselves in her creative process and aesthetic. We photographed her hand-dyed fabrics as inspiration for our digital designs. To bring these concepts to life, we combined After Effects for robust motion design with TouchDesigner for real-time, interactive visuals. This software pairing allowed us to emulate the organic textures of Pat's fabrics while infusing them with dynamic, digital movement.
The design phase involved a multi-step process of creation and refinement. I took the initiative to learn TouchDesigner specifically for this project, recognizing its potential to generate the complex, organic patterns we needed. In TouchDesigner, I developed generative components that captured the essence of Pat's fabric designs.
These elements were then imported into After Effects, where I applied additional texturing and motion design techniques to enhance their visual impact. The designs were meticulously crafted for two distinct screen formats: a large rectangular display and a smaller square screen, both serving as dynamic backdrops for the runway.
Each visual composition was carefully constructed to mirror the fluidity and texture of Pat's fabrics. I created morphing grids, shifting patterns, and layered textures that resonated with the collection's aesthetic. To ensure seamless integration during the live event, we utilized Resolume for real-time color adjustments and content delivery, synchronizing our visuals with the models' outfits as they moved down the runway.
The project resulted in a sold-out show with 200 tickets purchased. It significantly expanded my professional skill set, reinforcing my expertise in motion design and live event production while adding proficiency in TouchDesigner. The experience honed my team leadership and project management abilities under tight deadlines. Ultimately, this project demonstrated my capacity to blend creative vision with technical execution, delivering impactful motion design solutions for dynamic, real-world applications.
