Aquarium is a procedural lighting and FX study that explores organic form, surface interaction, and light behavior underwater using Houdini 18’s powerful procedural modeling and shader systems. The piece draws inspiration from natural phenomena seen in aquariums — where light refracts through water, dances across complex surfaces, and paints subtle caustics on curved geometry — and translates those behaviors into a cinematic visual expression.

The creative direction centers on caustic lighting and surface modulation, using custom VEX-driven shaders to generate realistic light patterns and reactive surface detail across procedurally generated seashell forms. These light patterns are not simply aesthetic overlays; instead, they are driven by the interaction between simulated light rays and dynamic surface normals, giving the impression of real optical behavior that responds to both geometry and light direction.

From an FX perspective, the piece integrates procedural modeling with VEX expression systems to iteratively refine the shell geometries and their interactions with the light field. Rather than relying on pre-baked textures or static lighting passes, the caustic effects were generated through real-time evaluation of light position, surface curvature, and refracted vectors. This data-driven approach ensures that every variation in geometry yields a corresponding shift in light behavior, reinforcing the sense of depth and organic complexity.

Creative Goals

• Capture natural light behavior underwater, focusing on caustics and surface response
• Utilize procedural modeling and VEX to create emergent form and light interaction
• Balance visual clarity with expressive, physics-informed illumination

Outcome

The final animation serves as both a technical showcase of Houdini’s procedural and shading capabilities and a visual study in organic light interaction. By combining procedural geometry with data-driven caustic lighting, Aquarium turns algorithmic precision into an evocative visual experience that feels both natural and meticulously crafted.