Brian Knep

Originally developed for Jurassic Park, ViewPaint lets artists paint color and texture directly onto the surface of computer models. Artists used to do this indirectly, by working on an abstract, flattened version of the model, or by using complex mathematical functions. These techniques often work for simple rigid objects, but ViewPaint is especially suited for creature models with large, highly complex colors and textures. By creating a direct link between the artists' painting and the final results, ViewPaint allowed ILM to create highly realistic models.

ViewPaint is fully integrated into ILM's creature animation system, and has been used on nearly every production at ILM since its premier. In 1997 its developers were awarded a Scientific and Engineering Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Developers
John Schlag
Brian Knep
Zoran Kacic-Alesic
Tom Williams