FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"Curiosity Blocks" Showcases Interactive Anamorphic Animation and Generative Art at ICC Kids Program 2024

Yuko Suzuki, a renowned Japanese printmaker and visual artist, has been awarded the prestigious Silver A' Design Award for her digital artwork "Curiosity Blocks." This innovative piece was showcased at the "ICC Kids Program 2024 you().code().world()." held at the NTT InterCommunication Center in Tokyo, captivating audiences from July 23 to August 25, 2024. The work stands out for its unique use of anamorphosis-a technique where images are pre-distorted to appear correctly only when viewed in a cylindrical mirror-creating a mesmerizing interactive experience for visitors.

"Curiosity Blocks" draws inspiration from Suzuki's background in printmaking, overlaying the layered process of multi-colored prints with the digital layering of generative animation. The title "Blocks" references not only physical and visual structures but also programming concepts and traditional woodblock printing, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the project. The animation is constructed from 16 distinct parts, each programmed in Processing and meticulously transformed from flat images into dynamic, circular forms that reveal their true shapes through mirrored reflection.

The project's educational dimension is equally significant. By integrating mathematical concepts such as trigonometric functions and vectors, Suzuki's work allows children and students to visually experience ideas they will encounter in their academic journeys. The interactive aspect is heightened as viewers engage with the piece by observing the shifting images in the mirror, with the visual outcome changing based on angle and perspective. This hands-on approach to digital art and coding was designed to spark curiosity and demonstrate the creative possibilities of programming, making "Curiosity Blocks" both a technical and artistic achievement.

Suzuki faced considerable creative and technical challenges in converting flat animations into visually compelling circular forms and ensuring their effectiveness when projected onto a mirror. Through extensive experimentation and adjustment, she achieved a harmonious balance between visual intrigue and conceptual depth. The result is a work that not only delights with its striking visual effects but also encourages exploration and discovery, embodying the spirit of curiosity at the heart of the exhibition.

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