INTRODUCTION

I’m a big fan of miniature model creators. Their ability to bring intricate landscapes to life is captivating and so inspiring. I wanted to pay homage to these talented individuals by learning from them and trying my hand

at creating a miniature landscape. This project presented an opportunity for personal growth and artistic exploration, where I could push the boundaries of my creativity.

THE MISSION

Challenge myself, celebrate the art form, and showcase its unique charm in my own style.

THE OUTCOME

Drawing from my childhood experiences growing up in the mountains of Colorado, I created a miniature mountain range and translated it into a series of mesmerising video loops. These loops will be projected at parties and raves to create a moody and gritty environment

SERVICES

Concept Development / Art Direction / Set building / Videography / Video Editing / Colour Grading / Projection Mapping

THE PROJECT

As an artist, I constantly seek new avenues to invigorate my creative practice and push the boundaries of my artistic expression. Before this project, I experienced a period where my work felt stagnant and needed more excitement and freshness. I recognised the need to embark on a new and captivating project that would reignite my creativity.

Inspiration can strike from unexpected sources. For me, it came in videos of miniature model creators and their awe-inspiring craftsmanship. Witnessing their incredible attention to detail and the lifelike worlds they created inspired this project. I aimed to pay homage to these talented people by learning from them and pushing the boundaries of my artistic capabilities.

Drawing from my roots in the magnificent mountains of Colorado, I decided to create a miniature mountain range which I would then translate into video loops and use as visuals to project at parties.


Me working in the studio.

THE PROCESS | STAGE 1

IDEATION & PROTOTYPING

This project unfolded through several stages. I brainstormed different visual possibilities in both the set and video creative in the initial stage. Then, I engaged in thorough prototyping to ensure the best approach for constructing the miniature landscape. I immersed myself in materials and techniques used by experienced miniature model creators.

Below: Plaster, a hotwire cutter, and sculptamold

THE PROCESS | STAGE 2

BUILDING

Once I determined the most effective building method, I began constructing the mountain range. Due to space limitations in my studio, I opted for a portable design that allows storage on shelves. I meticulously cut and glued pieces together using polystyrene from various sources, including local dumpsters and the Facebook marketplace. The mountains took shape as I sculpted them using a hot wire cutter and a paper mache clay mix called 'Sculptamold.' To enhance the realism, I added rock textures made from plaster.


Carving moutains with a hot wire cutter. My partner helping me collect polystyrene from the local rubbish.

THE PROCESS | STAGE 3

SCREEN TEST & REWORKING

During this stage, I encountered a few challenges with my initial approach. After taking a break and returning with fresh eyes, I decided to revamp the project. I repainted the mountains entirely, abandoning the use of flowers and focusing on creating a gritty and moody atmosphere, perfect for enhancing the ambiance of large parties.

SHOOTING & EDITING

I filmed three different evolutions of shots: those with colourful lighting, those with mapped animated light, and those with volumetric light beams. This progressive visual evolution will ensure an enthralling experience for viewers at parties and raves, with impactful shots strategically reserved for peak moments. I also experimented with static videos using a split diopter filter, which creates a feeling of unease. 

THE OUTCOME

The culmination of countless hours of crafting and creating resulted in a mesmerizing collection of otherworldly looping videos. Carefully structured to evolve gradually, the videos offer a slow-burn experience, ultimately building up to peak moments of sheer visual impact.

It is important to note that every element within these videos I crafted practically. From the meticulously hand-built mountains to the real-life lighting effects, I left nothing to the realm of CGI.

Ready to impress the guests at your next event? Let's chat. stormypyeatte@gmail.com