Game engines, the programs generally used for video-game development, are powerful design tools that enable designers to create unexpected digital 3D visualizations. They can be used for a wide range of purposes, from photo-realistic physics simulations to abstract generative art pieces to entire video games. In addition, interaction allows for a new approach to digital 3D imagery. Players do not only react to the images but directly influence the immersive spaces through their behaviour. In this workshop, we shall use 3D models, textures, shaders, and code to explore the many possibilities of designing with real-time rendering software. We shall use Unity to design a virtual world a viewer can walk through and interact with objects. Participants will get an insight into creating a 3D project in Unity and learn how to use 3D models, shaders, lighting, and how to program simple interactions with the C# programming language.
Lena Frei works as a research assistant at the Institute Digital Communication Environments IDCE. Her research interests are centered around the interplay between humans and technology, with a special focus on game design. Her fascination with computer games – both as a gamer and as a researcher and designer – has been the starting point for various projects, be it in academia, design, or interactive narration. Lena Frei graduated from the University of Basel in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Media Studies. Before completing her MA in Visual Communication and Iconic Research at the HGK FHNW, she worked as a concept developer and multimedia designer. For her master's thesis, she designed a computer game that encouraged a critical look at the division between nature and culture.
The Institute Digital Communication Environments (IDCE) / The Basel School of Design offers workshops for students, educators and graphic designers.
The workshops afford insights into topical themes of visual communication in a study programme reflecting the rich tradition of the Basel School of Design. Practical exercises with a high level of professionalism form the core of the workshops focus. Reflection as well as contextual knowledge will be conveyed by way of input sessions, allowing participants’ work to be judged within a contemporary, future-oriented context relevant to professional practice. The trinational Rhine River Valley is a unique cultural environment with easy access to France and Germany and to sites such as the Vitra Design Museum (G), the Isenheimer Alter (F), or Ronchamps (F). In Basel, the Fondation Beyeler, Tinguely Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Schaulager, and Museum of Contemporary Art are world-renowned. Besides its museums, Basel offers a rich mixture of cultural events.
20% discount with a valid student ID. This must be sent in with the registration (pdf).
Institute Digital Communication Environments (IDCE)
Through digital media and the democratisation of communication channels that goes hand in hand with it, the critical handling of their visual and interaction-based design has become decisively more important, because the social relevance of information and communication has thus fundamentally changed.
