Legend of the Wise Kitsune

In the lead-up to my 3D design exam, I embarked on a creative journey involving the development of three distinct projects that would eventually converge into a harmonious, unified scene. These projects were meticulously designed with a dual purpose: to gain a comprehensive understanding of Blender's versatile toolset and to unleash my artistic expression.

The first leg of this endeavor entailed crafting a musical instrument, drawing inspiration from a music genre, cultural elements, or a specific theme. Given my profound fascination with Japanese culture, I chose to inaugurate the journey with the creation of a unique and evocative musical instrument: the "Sushi Drum." This instrument not only pays tribute to the rhythmic cadence of traditional Japanese music but also celebrates the artistry and flavors of sushi, encapsulating my admiration for Japan's multifaceted culture.

Moving forward, the project called for the construction of a house, and I continued to immerse myself in the captivating world of Japanese aesthetics. I meticulously designed a house that bore striking resemblances to the architectural grace of a Japanese shrine, evoking both reverence and tranquility.

In the final phase, the task was to breathe life into a character and seamlessly integrate it into the scene alongside the Sushi Drum and the shrine-inspired house. For this pivotal role, I chose to introduce the "Kitsune," a legendary fox character deeply rooted in Japanese folklore. Kitsune are believed to possess supernatural abilities that mature and grow in wisdom over time, adding an intriguing and mystical dimension to the overall scene.

These three projects collectively served as a comprehensive journey, not only enriching my proficiency in 3D design but also offering a profound exploration of my fascination with Japanese culture, art, and folklore. The resulting scene stands as a testament to the fusion of creative expression, technical prowess, and cultural appreciation.

Project 2021

3D design

Software

Blender

“There’s an old tale my grandmother used to tell me when I was around your age. It was about a yōkai called Kin-sama. Kin-sama is a friendly kitsune who protects us from night terrors. My grandmother used to say, that if you listen closely as the sun sets, you might just hear the faint sound of drums. That’s Kin-sama playing her drum to ward off dark and evil forces from the village, protecting us from the night that is to come.”

— A mother to her child before bedtime