The Gnomon Workshop has released animator David Schonevelds three-DVD series on Maya Fluids. The series gives the artist a detailed perspective on the principles of fluid dynamics, the controls needed to implement dynamics from within the application and the numerous methods the artist can use to create dynamic, non-dynamic and texture-based effects.
Producer Eric Hanson said, "We're very excited to add David's titles to the Gnomon Workshop Library. David started his career as a compositor, which gives him a unique perspective on integrating fluids and effects into the production pipeline. As Maya Fluid Effects are a fundamental part of the visual effects lexicon, David's DVDs fill a much-needed niche."
"Fluid dynamics offer a powerful solution to many complex dynamic effects, however it takes a good deal of time to get comfortable with the tool," states Alex Alvarez, Gnomon Workshop director. "These DVDs were created to save effects animators countless hours, by sharing David Schoneveld's proven techniques."
Also releasing this week from the Gnomon Workshop is Ethan Summers' second Maya Paint Effects DVD. POLYGONS AND DYNAMICS picks up where Ethan's PAINT EFFECTS 101 left off, teaching the artist advanced techniques that include tuning brushes, creating wind deformations and correcting frequently-occurring errors.
Eric Hanson, the title's producer, notes, "Ethan Summers has vast experience as a multidisciplinary artist. This DVD is a great follow-up to Ethan's first DVD. It takes the user beyond the scope of the package, while illustrating how to integrate Paint Effects into the Maya workflow."
MAYA FLUID EFFECTS: FUNDAMENTALS2D AND 3D FLUIDS WITH DAVID SCHONEVELDFluid dynamics are rapidly becoming a powerful alternative to particle effects. In the first lecture of this series, Schoneveld introduces you to the rules of fluid production, showing how Maya Fluid Effects can be used for everything from smoke, dust and explosions, to underwater plane crashes and more. Schoneveld details the fluid menu, emitter and container attributes, as well as shading and texturing, while conveying an understanding of the dynamic attributes of fluid dynamics and their uses in production. The lesson also details the basics of ponds, emphasizing an understanding of the fluid shader and texture controls.
MAYA FLUID EFFECTS: PARTICLE INTEGRATION2D AND 3D FLUIDS WITH DAVID SCHONEVELDIn the second DVD in this series on Maya Fluid Effects, Schoneveld imparts a detailed view of the various methods and advanced features of particle and rigid body control through fluid dynamics. This multi-faceted lesson takes you through the beginning and intermediate techniques of the Ocean Shader before revealing how you can create object-avoiding particles without scripting. The lesson culminates by teaching you how to create particles driven by fluid dynamics that can interact with an object or character.
MAYA FLUID EFFECTS: PYROTECHNICS2D AND 3D FLUIDS WITH DAVID SCHONEVELDIn the third DVD of this series on Maya Fluid Effects, Schoneveld reveals the numerous methods he uses to create and control fluid explosions, covering dynamic, non-dynamic and texture-based effects. He teaches you how to use, and maintain control of fields with fluid containers. The lesson also covers the basics of flame construction and explains how to use the Maya presets to build effects quickly and efficiently.
PAINT EFFECTS: POLYGONS AND DYNAMICSADVANCED TECHNIQUES WITH ETHAN SUMMERSThis DVD illuminates the particulars of getting the most out of Maya's Paint Effects. In the second of a series, Ethan Summers teaches you to tune your brushes, optimize large-scale scenes, use Paint Effects objects as particle emitters and create wind deformations. You'll also learn to correct such frequently occurring errors as blown-out lighting and bad shadows. Finally, Ethan shows you how to integrate Paint Effects with Pixologic ZBrush and Maya's Dynamics.
Since 2000, The Gnomon Workshop has provided artists and students with the educational resources they need to succeed as artists in the entertainment industries. Whether they're interested in design, modeling, effects, animation, storytelling or matte painting, these DVDs provide a valuable educational resource for students around the world. The Gnomon Workshop is the sister company of The Gnomon School of Visual Effects, which provides professional-caliber visual effects instruction to students and professionals in Los Angeles, California. Visit www.thegnomonworkshop.com for more information.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
