Anthesis is an augmented reality flower companion that reflects a viewer’s inner state through symbolic bloom animations. The experience begins with a series of introspective questions. Based on their responses, the viewer is assigned one of four archetypes, each represented by a distinct animated flower.
The goal is quiet self-reflection—a meditative moment made tangible through holographic illusion.
I was responsible for the end-to-end development of the experience, including:
• Concept and interaction design
• 3D modeling, texturing, and animation
• Physical installation design and fabrication
• Visual storytelling for archetype representation
• Unity-based AR implementation and visual effects
• Viewers respond to a short sequence of personality-based prompts.
• Based on their answers, one of four archetypes is assigned.
• A corresponding flower blooms before them—each animation reflecting the qualities of its archetype.
• The display uses a DIY holographic illusion setup, creating a floating, spectral bloom.
Each archetype is paired with a symbolic flower and a unique bloom sequence. For the demo, I created thearchetype—a visual metaphor of surrender and openness.
• The flower’s , inspired by a begging bowl, unfold slowly.
• This gesture echoes mental stillness and the act of receiving.
• By using organic form in a digital space, the experience highlights the tension between natural emotion and synthetic environments.
The hologram was created using a custom-built rig:
• A monitor mounted facing downward
• A four-sided plexiglass pyramid to reflect the image
• A frame made from repurposed wood
• The effect simulates a 3D object floating in space, visible from multiple angles
I modeled, textured, and animated the flower in Maya. Visual effects (like fireflies) were added in After Effects and composited in Unity.
Anthesis explores how interactive digital art can create emotionally resonant experiences. The project blends symbolic storytelling, reflection, and immersion—inviting users to engage quietly with themselves through a technological mirror.
It’s a continuing project that I plan to evolve with new archetypes, interaction modes, and potential mobile AR versions.
