3D animation · Unit 17, Vancouver · 2023

The peacock animation. The 3D model came from VFX Grace.

The peacock on screen at Unit 17. Installation photo via isabellepauwels.com.

Bringing the peacock to life

F.F.F.F. is a two-channel animated video installation by Isabelle Pauwels and Paul Kajander, shown at Unit 17 in Vancouver from July 22 to August 27, 2023. I animated a surreal peacock using an existing 3D model, and did video editing and production for the custom projection.

The 26-minute video plays across two screens separated by a brick pillar, one set about two feet in front of the other. The peacock appears three times in the film, and the opening of its tail was a favourite moment for visitors.

The gallery windows were painted with tempera paint in blue, orange, green and red, bathing the room in stained-glass colour while the video played. The show was funded by the Canada Council for the Arts.

The painted windows and cooler seats in the gallery. Installation photo via isabellepauwels.com.