
2021
Shadow of The Moon 月荧潮汐
Earth as Walker
Tidal forces subtly link Earth's oceans to the celestial motions of the universe, prompting reflection on humanity's interconnectedness with nature and the cosmos. In recent years, the "blue tide" phenomenon has captivated observers worldwide, with its strikingly luminous blue glow caused by marine dinoflagellates. These algae emit bioluminescence as a defensive response to disturbances, yet their overpopulation is primarily attributed to excessive human-generated pollutants, such as fertilizers and organic waste. This ecological imbalance raises profound questions: How can humanity authentically restore and appreciate nature’s intrinsic beauty? Marine algae are responsible for producing a significant portion of Earth's oxygen. Estimates suggest they contribute between 70% and 80% of the oxygen in our atmosphere. This is primarily due to photosynthetic activity, where these tiny organisms convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into oxygen. Preserving ocean ecosystems is deeply intertwined with human survival. Can we heighten awareness and inspire action toward ocean conservation through artistic intervention?
Shadow of the Moon investigates these questions through the dynamic interaction between tidal phenomena and simulated marine algae, visually articulated by integrating AI-generated virtual terrains within an immersive oceanic environment. Eight hundred thousand particles, introduced at a rate of 40,000 per second, are endowed with realistic hydrodynamic properties, forming a virtual ocean influenced by real-world wind and tidal data. As waves repeatedly crash against virtual mountains and reefs, the interactive relationship between tides and algae produces the mesmerizing fluorescent blue hues characteristic of real-world blue tides.
This intricate process has been meticulously rendered into a compelling 30-second digital animation, featured prominently as the inaugural dynamic cover of ZiWU誌屋. Within this digital narrative, AI-generated mountains symbolically represent the breathing, dynamic journey of Earth's terrain beneath the ocean's surface. Transparent waters shimmer with softly glowing blue lights, guiding viewers through shifting perspectives that transcend conventional dimensions. This shifting viewpoint symbolizes an ongoing exploration, inviting audiences to rediscover and reconnect with nature’s purest rhythms and the broader cosmic order.
Artwork by
Jiayu Liu
Project Manager
Shuang Song
Artist Assistant
Min Zhang
Landscape Design
Wenbo Sun
Content Simulation
Dong Rui
Particle Rendering
Tianze Lu
Visual Design
Tingting Wu
Edit
Tiankun Yu
Supported by
Meta Media
First Published by
ZiWU Inaugural Motion Graphic Issue. VOL. 19. Oct. 2021