PREPRINT: Found Object Puppeteering as a Tool for Rapid Movement Sketching in 3D Animation

TL;DR

This paper explores using found object puppeteering as a novel method for rapid movement sketching in 3D animation, integrating physical objects to enhance novice animators' exploration and understanding of movement.

Contribution

It introduces a system that leverages physical objects inspired by expert puppeteering to facilitate movement exploration in digital animation for novices.

Findings

Enhanced movement diversity in sketches

Improved engagement with physical objects during animation

Supports rapid iteration in early design stages

Abstract

Both expert and novice animators have a need to engage in movement sketching -- low-cost, rapid iteration on a character's movement style -- especially early on in the ideation process. Yet animation tools currently focus on low-level character control mechanisms rather than encouraging engagement with and deep observation of movement. We identify Found Object puppeteering -- where puppeteers manipulate everyday physical objects with their hands -- as a creative practice whose use of material "jigs" is uniquely well-positioned to scaffold the novice animator's developing skills. In this paper, we draw on the practice of an expert puppeteer practitioner to inform the design of a system that incorporates physical objects into the animation workflow to scaffold novices into diverse movement exploration while manipulating digital puppets.