Montion Graphics & Compositing/Project 4：Abstract Motion

30/06/2025 - 27/07/2024 (Week 11 – Week 14)

Shao Han / 0369187

Montion Graphics & Compositing / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylors University

Project 4 : Abstract Motion

CONCENT

• INTRODUCTION
• PROJECT 4
• SUBMISSION
• FEEDBACK
• REFLECTION

INTRODUCTION

PROJECT 4

DESCRIPTION:

1. Students will synthesis the knowledge gained in task 1, 2 and 3 for application in task 4. Students are to create an theme based abstract motion graphic video that consist a good audio visual say it in 3D/2D, mix media or any experimental visual output that has strong theme.

2. Students describe and reflect on their competencies within the design studio context, supported by evidence. 

REQUIREMENTS:

Students are to use information for any proposed channel (*existing or fictional)

• create mood-board that reflects their concept/idea

• storyboard

• animatics

• explore appropriate audio to uplift the motion tempo

PROCESS

In this project, Yang Jiayi and I chose to continue to work together.

In terms of the theme, we first wanted to use "One Hundred Years of Solitude" as the theme and start a narrative about loneliness.

But later we found that the overall theme concept was too abstract and difficult to embody and express in the picture, so while still focusing on loneliness, we chose the film "Her" as our main material and picture content.

Fig1.1 Mood Board，Week 11（01/07/2025）

Fig1.2 Mood Board，Week 11（01/07/2025）

After deciding on the theme, Jiayi and I still had no idea how to create the content.

Mr. Fauzi told us to refer to similar videos and get inspiration from them.

• LINK

According to the example given by Mr. Fauzi, we realized that we could use the method of video clips + dynamic text to create. Based on this video concept, we searched for some similar videos on the Internet as references for pictures and styles.

Fig1.3 Style Guide，Week 11（02/07/2025）

Because our video content revolves around the movie "Her" and is centered on loneliness, it has a strong narrative sense overall, so we sorted out a story line for the video content we are going to produce.

Fig1.4 Storyline，Week 11（05/07/2025）

Fig1.5 Storyline，Week 11（05/07/2025）

Since there is not much original content in the entire video, we used the story line instead of the draft picture, and the next step is to directly enter the storyboard drawing stage.

Fig1.6 Storyboard，Week 12（07/07/2025）

Next, we will officially start the video production. Just like the previous project, we will find the available materials on the Internet and use the PS tool to obtain the desired transparent background.

As one of the main parts of the video content, although "Her" is virtual data, we can still show it on the screen.

Fig1.7 Motion Graphics，Week 12 (10/07/2025）

For the entire video, we mainly use the dialogue between the male protagonist and "her" instead of the general explanation, in order to make the video more interactive.

In the display of the text effects of some dialogues, in order to make the dialogue more lifelike and highlight that the male protagonist has regarded AI as a part of his life, we used the design of the chat dialog box.

Fig1.8 Motion Graphics，Week 12（12/07/2025）

Integrate dynamic graphics into the scene.

Fig1.9 Motion Graphics，Week 13（14/07/2025）

For some clips, we merge two or more scenes into one picture. The addition of some clips can make the picture more impactful.

Fig1.10 Motion Graphics，Week 13（16/07/2025）

Use graphics again and change them according to the scene and plot content to better fit the picture.

Fig1.11 Motion Graphics，Week 13（19/07/2025）

SUBMISSION

• SLIDE LINK

• YOUTUBE LINK

FEEDBACK

WEEK 11

The core theme could have been communicated more clearly. What message or emotion should the viewer take away? Consider refining the narrative arc or visual symbolism to better express your concept.

WEEK 13

Some transitions felt abrupt or disconnected.

REFLECTION

Experiences

In this project, I integrated and applied what I learned from Project 1 to 3 to create a more thematic abstract motion graphics work. The whole process includes concept sketches, mood boards, style guides, and final animation production.

Observations

I noticed that while abstract images can be powerful, they can confuse people if there isn't a clear theme and smooth flow in the animation. My first draft has issues with sudden changes and uneven sounds and visuals.
Through peer feedback, I realized that the audience's understanding of my work was biased due to the lack of symbolic or narrative clues. This prompted me to rethink how to convey ideas more effectively in visual language.

Findings 

In abstract animation, it is still very important to be clear. Even if the picture isn't specific, as long as the theme is clear and the style is the same, the audience can still feel an emotional connection. Sound effects are important not just for background noise; they play a key role in creating rhythm and expressing feelings. When the sound and picture match up well, watching will be much better. Trying out different styles and transitions several times, even making small timing changes, can really make the animation smoother and better overall.