ViewPaint

Computer graphics software developer at ILM whose film credits include JURASSIC PARK (1993), STAR TREK: GENERATIONS (1994), 101 DALMATIANS (1996), THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK (1997 restoration) and MAGNOLIA (1999). Steven Speilberg's 1993 film, JURASSIC PARK, demanded dinosaurs that looked and moved realistically. A whole new set of tools was required for this level of complexity. Two of these tools, ViewPaint and the Dinosaur Input Device (DID), became workhorses on many other films, and were honored with Academy Awards. 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.  Scientific and Engineering Award (Plaque) 1996: For the development of the Viewpaint 3D Paint System for film production work. (w. John Schlag, Thomas Williams and Brian Knep) 1 Scientific/Technical Award