When Unexpected Discoveries Lead to Creative Breakthroughs

Unearthing Beauty in the Unforeseen with EB Synth

Here at Plume Films, we're perpetually fascinated by the unexpected turns a creative journey can take. Sometimes, the most captivating visuals emerge not from meticulous planning, but from those delightful unforeseen discoveries – the oddments and leftovers from projects that, in their incomplete state, reveal a new abstract and pleasing form. We've been delving into this very concept recently, finding profound inspiration in the overlooked.

We often craft incredibly complex animation sequences. When producing textured work, some projects can stack up to 40 layers high. Channels are constantly being toggled on and off to streamline our workflow or to inform creative decisions. And then, a moment of serendipity strikes: with just a few of these 'eyes' turned off, you're left gazing at an image you've inadvertently created. These are the frames we squirrel away, treasures to be revisited.

So, what is it about these forms? What has truly happened here? It's much like contemplating any abstract artwork, perhaps even following the surrealist and Dadaist methodologies where you produce the picture first and then find its meaning – much like a visual game of 'exquisite corpse'. What do we see in these accidental masterpieces?

Embracing the Beauty of Creative Limitations with EB Synth

Experimental work for a new film with Byron Vincent

This particular exploration stems from an experiment, a deep dive into a new technique for an exciting project we're developing with the brilliant Byron Vincent (do keep your eyes peeled for more news on that front!). I was trying out a piece of software called EB Synth – it’s a bit clunky, perhaps a tad old, and certainly unconventional, but I was eager to give it a proper go. What truly appealed to me was its rather unorthodox nature, especially in today's increasingly AI-driven landscape.

I've always believed that limitations are a crucial ingredient in the recipe for creativity. While our minds can conjure almost anything, the inherent constraints of our tools – be they sophisticated software or analogue methods like lino printing or even a simple sketch pad – can paradoxically push creative boundaries and foster truly innovative workarounds. It’s about finding freedom within the framework.

My exploration led me to EB Synth. There are some absolutely fantastic tutorials out there on YouTube, and I will share one with you that genuinely made me chuckle; Joel Havers dry wit was a true highlight. Without getting bogged down in the minute technical details, EB Synth effectively tracks objects, allowing you to draw just one frame and then have the software rotoscope the rest of the sequence in your chosen style. Now, that's a very exciting prospect indeed! And yes I know Ai can slap a cherry on top as well and sometimes I choose cherries but in this instance - I want as a creator, to create. I want to push things about. If you're keen to learn more, simply watch the linked video; it’s an incredibly easy and rewarding introduction to the software.

Of course, like any creative tool, EB Synth comes with its own delightful glitches and intriguing quirks, especially when dealing with vivid movement. In one particular frame I saved as a still, a fascinating glitch occurred as Byron took his sunglasses off. The movement of his arm, caught mid-action, created this remarkable visual anomaly. What made it particularly intriguing was that this glitch wasn't an isolated event; it happened in perfect synchronicity with the rich textures and vibrant colours I was already crafting, and even the accompanying audio. It wasn't an independent, self-created image; it was a genuine collaboration with the glitch itself. I find this aspect incredibly satisfying – to observe these unexpected interactions and see where they ultimately lead the creative process.

The Plume Films Approach: Crafting Art from the Unforeseen

At Plume Films, this philosophy of embracing the unexpected isn't just a quirky aside; it's woven into the very fabric of our creative process. While we pride ourselves on meticulous planning and technical precision, we also, when playing, understand that true innovation often lies in the willingness to explore the peripheral, to recognise the beauty in the unanticipated outcome, and to transform glitches into glorious new forms. It’s this blend of intentional design and open-minded exploration that allows us to deliver animated content that is not only effective but also uniquely captivating.

By integrating these experimental approaches, we don't just produce films; we craft experiences. We invite you to consider how such a dynamic and adaptable creative process could elevate your next animated project. Whether you're looking for something cutting-edge, beautifully traditional, or a unique blend of both, we're here to bring your vision to life.