Some Early Experiments with the Demo version of
Art*lantis 4.5

I began my experiments with three Scenic Objects: a wall, a floor and an actor. (Link to an image of the 3d Model) Each object was given a different color. I used multiple light sources but failed to check the shadow box when I rendered the image.

Image One

In the Second Image only one of the lamps, the stage right side light, cast a shadow. The front light illuminated both the figure and the wall, but the Shadow box in the Lights window was not checked so no shadow was cast. I wish this could be done in real life. It would be nice to be able to turn off the shadows cast by the front lights.

Image Two

By the Third Image I had discovered the Directional Light (or Spot light) in the Lights window and used it to create a nice pool of down light around the figure. All Shadow boxes were checked.

Image Three

At this point I went back to VectorWorks and edited the original model -- cutting a window into the back wall and turning the stage floor into a platform. (Link to an image of the 3d Model) In the Fourth Image I placed a Directional Light (or Spot) up stage left. I focused this lamp through the window creating an interesting floor pattern.

Image Four

In Image Five I added both an amber down light to isolate the actor and an amber gel to the back light through the window to create the effect of a late afternoon sun. This image was created in about five minutes as I demonstrated the program to a colleague.

Image Five

In the Sixth and Seventh Images I experimented with modeling materials from the Art*lantis Library on the floor and wall surfaces. I particularly like the floor texture in Image Seven.

Image Six

Image Seven

At this point I went back to VectorWorks and added a love seat, easy chair, end table and coffee table to the 3d model. (Link to an image of the 3d Model) In Image Eight I used modeling materials from the Art*lantis Library not only on the floor and walls, but also on the furniture. I think the floor pattern in this rendering is especially ugly.

Image Eight

In the Ninth Image I decided to use no materials from the Library and create the rendering with only color and light, much as I had done on the first five images.

Image Nine

Image Ten was developed by committee. As I demonstrated the program to my Scene Design students they chose the color and materials which would be applied to each of the Scenic Object: floor, wall, actor, sofa and chair (one object), and the two tables. I particularly like the chrome plated rear wall. I'm glad I don't have to light it and I certainly wouldn't want to perform in front of it.

Image Ten