Through the Creative Simulation Technologies course, you will master the craft of computer simulation in various forms. You will study and implement graphical, physics-based solvers as well as real-time simulations. The foundation of the course is based on Houdini, and additional software training includes Touch Designer, basic programming, and the game engine Unreal. With the study of these four elements - Houdini, TouchDesigner, coding, and Unreal – an artist has complete technical and artistic freedom with simulation; at the heart and edge of computer technology. On completion, you will showcase highly specialized knowledge of node-based procedural workflows. Projects will take the form of well-presented simulations in tandem with case studies targeted toward bringing new ideas into Europe’s diverse art and technology markets.
Participant projects
You will work on an individual simulation project throughout the course. You will choose a specific natural phenomenon that you must research. You will then have to recreate the phenomenon, or combine elements from different natural phenomena, as computer simulations. You can choose to render the end-product, the animated film sequence, in different ways, for instance realistically, graphically, or based on a game aesthetic, but the actual simulations in the scene will behave realistically based on the laws of physics. As a result, the participants’ final projects are short animated clips consisting of well-executed computer simulations combined with detailed case studies documenting their workflow and considerations throughout the process. Case studies are important for the your own creative process, but equally important for knowledge sharing and further development of the field.
What you get
- An intensive course developed with the help of industry professionals
- Instructors are all active professionals with updated and production-tested knowledge
- Hands-on teaching and practice every day from morning to afternoon
- A professional network
- 24-7 access to your own personal workstation with industry-standard software
- Art and didactic materials
- Access to camera equipment
- Assistance with housing and travel advice
- Access to all extra-curricular activities: sports, lectures, parties etc.
Download Simulation 2022 course program (PDF)
Course learning objectives:
- To master the craft of computer simulation in various forms
- To work with highly complex physics solvers
- To work with real-time simulation paradigms present in motion graphics and game engine technology
- To understand the foundations of computer science through application of direct programming
- To undergo the problem solving process as pertaining to complex unknown variables
- Training to deliver plan and deliver project milestones on time
- To become independent and self-driven as a technical artist
- Research of a phenomenon for simulation
- Produce a well-polished final presentation to industry of a simulation
- Produce a case-study detailing the process going into the simulation
- An understanding and proficiency in Houdini software
- A grasp of real time motion graphics using Touch Designer software
- A grasp of real time physics and environment using a game engine
- The ability to solve custom software needs using direct coding
- Understanding of how to successfully market a project to a wider audience
Course instructional method:
Lectures from instructors/industry practitioners. Guided mentorship through notable stages of individualized projects. Biweekly milestone review. Weekly group critique.
Course assignments:
Simulation, Case study
Course software
- Houdini
- Touch Designer
- Game engine (Unreal)
Final Projects
Participants work on their own simulation projects throughout the 12-week course. You can watch the course showreel and final projects from the previous year below.
Houdini 2019 reel
Houdini & Simulation 2019