Course Overview

Please note: This class is currently being edited into small clips and will replace the raw footage that is currently available for viewing.

Class Description:

This course focuses on translating artistic ideas into procedural workflows in Houdini. Students will learn how to build flexible systems from scratch and combine different techniques into cohesive visual pieces.

Alongside the technical side, the course explores artistic decision-making: how to develop a visual language, experiment with form and motion, and apply creative techniques to achieve stylized and expressive results.

By the end of the course, students will gain insight into both the structure of Houdini setups and the artistic thinking behind creating unique, character-driven simulations and visuals.


Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, students will:

  • Understand how to build procedural systems in Houdini from the ground up
  • Learn how to combine multiple approaches (simulation, modeling, FX) into a single workflow
  • Gain tools to translate abstract or artistic ideas into technical setups
  • Develop a personal approach to creating stylized and expressive visuals
  • Learn practical artistic techniques for shaping motion, form, and overall look
  • Improve their ability to experiment and iterate within Houdini


Course Materials

    1. Discord

    2. Files

    1. Session 1 Outline

    2. Session 1 Full Raw Video

    3. Submit your work

Soft & Silly in Houdini

  • $35.00
  • 1.5 hours of video content
Session 1

Heartbeat - From Concept to Stylized Simulation in Houdini

In this session, Daria breaks down her project Heartbeat, exploring how a stylized scene is built through layered procedural systems and simulations. The session covers both the technical construction and the artistic decisions behind creating expressive, cohesive motion and visuals in Houdini.

  • Introduction to the Heartbeat project and artistic intent
  • Procedural modeling of the bird and environment
  • Grooming and hair setup for dynamic elements
  • Sequential Vellum simulations (geometry → hair)
  • Particle simulation for stylized emission effects
  • Attribute transfer: driving grass color from particles
  • Look development and rendering in Redshift

Instructor

Daria Anise

3D Motion Designer

Daria Anise is a 3D Motion Designer, Houdini, and Look Dev Artist. With a background in traditional art training and an MS in Design IT, for over 10 years, Daria has been working in production across various studios. Throughout this journey, she has been mastering technical precision along with artistic expression.

LinkedIn Instagram Website

WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE THIS COURSE

  • A computer (see SideFX system requirements)
  • A second monitor (recommended)
  • Houdini 21 (Apprentice License is free)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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REFUND POLICY:


Live-Session Courses
Students may request a refund up to 1 day before the start of the course. Students may also withdraw from Live-Session Courses at any time and are entitled to a pro-rated refund. The withdrawal date must be 1 day before the next class they intend to drop.

On-Demand Courses
All on-demand courses are non-refundable.

Refund a Class
Please send a request to get a refund via email to [email protected].
Your written request to drop any or all of your classes must include:
  1. Student’s full name
  2. Name of the course(s) being dropped

See you in Class!