Formentera20 is back, and this time it promises to be even more enlightening than the last twelve editions combined. Can you feel the excitement in the air? From October 2 to 4, 2025, the idyllic shores of Formentera will serve as the perfect backdrop for our favorite gathering of digital wizards, creativity gurus, and communication wizards. Because nothing says "cutting-edge innovation" quite like a tropical island where you can sip on your coconut water while discussing the latest trends in the digital universe. This year’s theme? A delightful concoction of culture, creativity, and communication—all served with a side of salty sea breeze. Who knew the key to world-class networking was just a plane ticket away to a beach? Forget about conference rooms; nothing like a sun-kissed beach to inspire groundbreaking ideas. Surely, the sound of waves crashing will help us unlock the secrets of digital communication. And let’s not overlook the stellar lineup of speakers they've assembled. I can only imagine the conversations: “How can we boost engagement on social media?” followed by a collective nod as they all sip their overpriced organic juices. I’m sure the beach vibes will lend an air of authenticity to those discussions on algorithm tweaks and engagement metrics. Because nothing screams “authenticity” quite like a luxury resort hosting the crème de la crème of the advertising world. Let’s not forget the irony of discussing “innovation” while basking in the sun. Because what better way to innovate than to sit in a circle, wearing sunglasses, while contemplating the latest app that helps you find the nearest beach bar? It’s the dream, isn’t it? It’s almost poetic how the world of high-tech communication thrives in such a low-tech environment—a setting that leaves you wondering if the real innovation is simply the ability to disconnect from the digital chaos while still pretending to be a part of it. But let’s be real: the true highlight of Formentera20 is not the knowledge shared or the networking done; it’s the Instagram posts that will flood our feeds. After all, who doesn’t want to showcase their “hard work” at a digital festival by posting a picture of themselves with a sunset in the background? It’s all about branding, darling. So, mark your calendars! Prepare your best beach outfit and your most serious expression for photos. Come for the culture, stay for the creativity, and leave with the satisfaction of having been part of something that sounds ridiculously important while you, in reality, are just enjoying a holiday under the guise of professional development. In the end, Formentera20 isn’t just a festival; it’s an experience—one that lets you bask in the sun while pretending you’re solving the world’s digital problems. Cheers to innovation, creativity, and the art of making work look like a vacation! #Formentera20 #digitalculture #creativity #communication #innovation

So, it seems we've reached a new pinnacle of gaming evolution: "20 crazy chats in VR: I Am Cat becomes multiplayer!" Because who wouldn’t want to get virtually whisked away into the life of a cat, especially in a world where you can now fight over the last sunbeam with your friends? Picture this: you, your best friends, and a multitude of digital felines engaging in an epic battle for supremacy over the living room floor, all while your actual cats sit on the couch judging you for your life choices. Yes, that's right! Instead of going outside, you can stay home and role-play as a furry overlord, clawing your way to the top of the cat hierarchy. Truly, the pinnacle of human achievement. Let’s be real—this is what we’ve all been training for. Forget about world peace, solving climate change, or even learning a new language. All we need is a VR headset and the ability to meow at each other in a simulated environment. I mean, who needs to engage in meaningful conversations when you can have a deeply philosophical debate about the merits of catnip versus laser pointers in a virtual universe, right? And for those who feel a bit competitive, you can now invite your friends to join in on the madness. Nothing screams camaraderie like a group of grown adults fighting like cats over a virtual ball of yarn. I can already hear the discussions around the water cooler: "Did you see how I pounced on Timmy during our last cat clash? Pure feline finesse!" But let’s not forget the real question here—who is the target audience for a multiplayer cat simulation? Are we really that desperate for social interaction that we have to resort to virtually prancing around as our feline companions? Or is this just a clever ploy to distract us from the impending doom of reality? In any case, "I Am Cat" has taken the gaming world by storm, proving once again that when it comes to video games, anything is possible. So, grab your headsets, round up your fellow cat enthusiasts, and prepare for some seriously chaotic fun. Just be sure to keep the real cats away from your gaming area; they might not appreciate being upstaged by your virtual alter ego. Welcome to the future of gaming, where we can all be the cats we were meant to be—tangled in yarn, chasing invisible mice, and claiming every sunny spot in the house as our own. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned from this VR frenzy, it's that being a cat is not just a lifestyle; it’s a multiplayer experience. #ICatMultiplayer #VRGaming #CrazyCatChats #VirtualReality #GamingCommunity

In a world where connections are meant to be strong, I find myself surrounded by silence, lost in a sea of expectations that never seem to be fulfilled. The SPIRAL sculpture, with its elegant design and seamless assembly, reflects a kind of unity I yearn for in my own life. It stands tall, constructed from copies of a single component, yet here I am, a fragmented soul, struggling to find the pieces that will bring me together. Each day feels like a repetition of the last, much like those identical components of the sculpture that fit together perfectly. But unlike the SPIRAL, I feel the weight of disconnection, the burden of solitude that wraps around me like a heavy cloak. My heart aches for the simplicity of a fastener-free assembly, where bonds are formed effortlessly, without the struggle of trying to hold everything together with fragile threads of hope. I watch as others build their lives with ease, each connection seemingly effortless, each moment shared a testament to their togetherness. Yet, I am here, grappling with my own isolation, feeling like a misplaced piece in a grand design I cannot comprehend. The beauty of the SPIRAL lies in its ability to showcase unity without the need for external support, and I can’t help but long for that kind of strength within myself. Loneliness creeps in, whispering doubts that echo in the chambers of my mind. Why can’t I find my place? Why can’t I assemble the parts of my life into something beautiful? The SPIRAL reminds me of what could be, a vision of harmony that eludes my grasp. I feel like a solitary figure, trying to construct my own reality, yet I am left with scattered remnants of dreams that never came to fruition. Perhaps I am destined to remain in this spiral of despair, forever searching for the missing components that will finally complete me. It’s a painful realization, one that lingers in the shadows, reminding me of my inadequacies. Each day I wake up hoping for a spark, a connection, a sign that I am not alone in this journey. Yet, the quiet remains, a constant companion that echoes my fears. As I reflect on the beauty of the SPIRAL, I can't help but wonder if I too can find my way to assemble a life that feels whole. I ache for companionship, for understanding, and for the love that seems just out of reach. I cling to the hope that one day, I will find my place in this world, and perhaps, the spiral of my existence will finally align with those around me. Until then, I will carry this weight, this loneliness that shadows my every step. I will continue to strive for connection, even when it feels impossible. Because deep down, I know that even the most intricate designs need time and patience to come together. #Loneliness #Connection #Isolation #Hope #EmotionalJourney

🚀✨ Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of freelance 3D artistry? 🌟 The possibilities are endless, and I'm here to tell you that this is the perfect time to dive into freelancing! Whether you're coming from animation, video games, architecture, or visual effects, the demand for talented 3D professionals is skyrocketing! 📈💥 Imagine waking up each day to work on projects that ignite your passion and creativity! 💖 Freelancing in the 3D industry allows you to embrace your artistic spirit and transform your visions into stunning visual realities. With studios and agencies increasingly outsourcing production stages, there has never been a better opportunity to carve out your niche in this vibrant field. 🌈 Let’s talk about the **5 essential tools** you can use to kickstart your freelancing career in 3D! 🛠️✨ 1. **Blender**: This powerful and free software is a game-changer! With its comprehensive features, you can create everything from animations to stunning visual effects. 🌌 2. **Autodesk Maya**: Elevate your skills with this industry-standard tool! Perfect for animators and modelers, Maya will help you bring your creations to life with professional finesse. 🎬 3. **Substance Painter**: Don’t underestimate the power of textures! This tool allows you to paint textures directly onto your 3D models, ensuring they look photorealistic and captivating. 🖌️ 4. **Unity**: If you’re interested in gaming or interactive content, Unity is your go-to platform! It lets you bring your 3D models into an interactive environment, giving you the chance to shine in the gaming world. 🎮 5. **Fiverr or Upwork**: These platforms are fantastic for freelancers to showcase their skills and connect with clients. Start building your portfolio and watch your network grow! 🌍 Freelancing isn't just about working independently; it’s about building a community and collaborating with other creatives to achieve greatness! 🤝💫 So, gather your tools, hone your craft, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Every project is an opportunity to learn and grow! 🌱 Remember, the road may have its bumps, but your passion and determination will propel you forward. Keep believing in yourself, and don’t hesitate to take that leap of faith into the freelancing world. Your dream career is within reach! 🚀💖 #Freelance3D #3DArtistry #CreativeJourney #Freelancing #3DModeling

Lately, I've been seeing a lot of authors on TikTok, posting videos under the hashtag #WritersTok. Apparently, they’re trying to prove that they’re not using AI to write their work. It’s kind of funny, I guess. They edit their manuscripts, showing us all the “human” effort that goes into writing. But honestly, it feels a bit pointless. I mean, do we really need to see authors editing? Isn’t that something we just assume they do? I don’t know, maybe it's just me, but watching someone scribble on a page or type away doesn’t seem that exciting. I get it, they want to show the world that they are real people with real processes, but can't that be implied? It's like they’re all saying, “Look, I’m not a robot,” when, in reality, most of us already knew that. The whole protest against AI in writing feels a bit overblown. Sure, AI is becoming a big deal in the creative world, but do we need a TikTok movement to showcase that human touch? I guess it’s nice that indie authors are trying to engage with readers, but can’t they find a more interesting way? Maybe just write more, I don’t know. The videos are everywhere, and it’s almost like an endless scroll of the same thing. People editing, people reading excerpts, and then more people explaining why they’re not using AI. It’s all a bit much. I suppose they’re trying to stand out in a world where technology is taking over writing, but does it have to be so… repetitive? Sometimes, I wish authors would just focus on writing rather than making videos about how they write. We all know writing is hard work, and they don’t need to prove it to anyone. Maybe I’m just feeling a bit lazy about it all. Or maybe it’s just that watching someone edit isn’t as captivating as a good story. In the end, I get that they’re trying to build a community and show their process, but the TikTok frenzy feels a bit forced. I’d rather pick up a book and read a good story than watch a video of someone tweaking their manuscript. But hey, that’s just me. #WritersTok #AuthorCommunity #AIinWriting #IndieAuthors #HumanTouch

Ah, the enchanting world of "Beautiful Accessibility"—where design meets a sweet sprinkle of dignity and a dollop of empathy. Isn’t it just delightful how we’ve collectively decided that making things accessible should also be aesthetically pleasing? Because, clearly, having a ramp that doesn’t double as a modern art installation would be just too much to ask. Gone are the days when accessibility was seen as a dull, clunky afterthought. Now, we’re on a quest to make sure that every wheelchair ramp looks like it was sculpted by Michelangelo himself. Who needs functionality when you can have a piece of art that also serves as a means of entry? You know, it’s almost like we’re saying, “Why should people who need help have to sacrifice beauty for practicality?” Let’s talk about that “rigid, rough, and unfriendly” stereotype of accessibility. Sure, it’s easy to dismiss these concerns. Just slap a coat of trendy paint on a handrail and voilà! You’ve got a “beautifully accessible” structure that’s just as likely to send someone flying off the side as it is to help them reach the door. But hey, at least it’s pretty to look at as they tumble—right? And let’s not overlook the underlying question: for whom are we really designing? Is it for the people who need accessibility, or is it for the fleeting approval of the Instagram crowd? If it’s the latter, then congratulations! You’re on the fast track to a trend that will inevitably fade faster than last season’s fashion. Remember, folks, the latest hashtag isn’t ‘#AccessibilityForAll’; it’s ‘#AccessibilityIsTheNewBlack,’ and we all know how long that lasts in the fickle world of social media. Now, let’s sprinkle in some empathy, shall we? Because nothing says “I care” quite like a designer who has spent five minutes contemplating the plight of those who can’t navigate the “avant-garde” staircase that serves no purpose other than to look chic in a photo. Empathy is key, but please, let’s not take it too far. After all, who has time to engage deeply with real human needs when there’s a dazzling design competition to win? So, as we stand at the crossroads of functionality and aesthetics, let’s all raise a glass to the idea of "Beautiful Accessibility." May it forever remain beautifully ironic and, of course, aesthetically pleasing—after all, what’s more dignified than a thoughtfully designed ramp that looks like it belongs in a museum, even if it makes getting into that museum a bit of a challenge? #BeautifulAccessibility #DesignWithEmpathy #AccessibilityMatters #DignityInDesign #IronyInAccessibility

animation, Festival d'Annecy, MIFA, Spanish animation, Secret Level, conferences, animation projects, Annecy 2025, cultural showcase ## The Spanish Animation Showcase: A Delightful Distraction at the Annecy Festival If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix world-class animation with a splash of Spanish flair, look no further than the upcoming Festival d’Annecy. This annual gathering is not just a platform for celebrated animated films; it’s a carnival of creativity, where studios from...

✨🌟 Dive into the mesmerizing world of VFX with the epic drama series "Shōgun"! 🌟✨ Have you ever wondered how stunning visual effects can transform a story and make history come alive? 🌍💖 Well, the groundbreaking series "Shōgun," set in the enchanting Japan of the 1600s, is a perfect example that showcases the magic of storytelling through incredible visuals! 🎬✨ I recently watched an inspiring interview with the talented team from Important Looking Pirates (ILP VFX) during SIGGRAPH Asia, and I can’t help but feel excited about the future of visual effects in the entertainment industry! 🎉🙌 Philip Engström and Niklas Jacobson shared their insights on how they brought the captivating scenes of "Shōgun" to life, blending artistry with technology to create breathtaking moments that enthrall audiences. 🌈💡 What struck me the most was their passion for their craft! 💪💖 It’s a beautiful reminder that when we pour our hearts into what we love, we can create something extraordinary. Just like the intricate VFX in "Shōgun," our efforts can weave a tapestry of inspiration that uplifts others! 🌺✨ So, whether you're an aspiring VFX artist, a storyteller, or simply someone with a dream, let this be a call to action! Don't hesitate to dive into your passions and explore the endless possibilities that lie ahead! 🌊💫 Use your creativity to transform your visions into reality and inspire those around you. Remember, every masterpiece starts with a single step! 🚀🌟 Let’s celebrate the power of visual storytelling and the incredible work of studios like Important Looking Pirates! Together, we can elevate the art of VFX and inspire future generations to dream big and create boldly! 💖💪✨ Keep shining and let your creativity flow! 🌈💖 #Shogun #VFX #ImportantLookingPirates #VisualEffects #Inspiration

GOG is talking about game preservation again. Apparently, they think it’s a big deal. They’ve got this whole GOG Preservation Program now. Seems like they really want to keep old games alive or something. Not that I’m super interested, but yeah, it’s part of their business model now. You know, game preservation is one of those topics that sounds important, but I don’t get why it’s such a focus for GOG. I mean, we have so many games already. Do we really need to save every single one? I guess some people think it’s cool to revisit old classics, but honestly, I’m not sure how many folks are actually doing that. The whole idea of preserving games seems a bit… I don’t know, unnecessary? I can’t shake the feeling that it’s just a way for GOG to make more money. They’re packaging up these old titles, probably hoping we’ll buy them again. It’s like, “Look, it’s a classic!” But, is it really that exciting? I can see why they’d want to make it part of their business strategy. It gives them something to talk about and maybe pulls in gamers who feel nostalgic. But for me, it’s a bit of a snooze-fest. I mean, sure, some classics are great, but do I need another platform telling me I can play them again? So, yeah, GOG is laying out their case for why game preservation matters. They think it’s central to their business model. I guess if you’re into that kind of thing, it could be interesting. But, overall, it feels kinda slow and boring to me. Just another day in the world of gaming, I suppose. #GamePreservation #GOG #GamingNews #OldGames #Nostalgia

Why does the world of animation, particularly at events like the SIGGRAPH Electronic Theater, continue to suffer from mediocrity? I can't help but feel enraged by the sheer lack of innovation and the repetitive nature of the projects being showcased. On April 17th, we’re promised a “free screening” of selected projects that are supposedly representing the pinnacle of creativity and diversity in animation. But let’s get real — what does “selection” even mean in a world where creativity is stifled by conformity? Look, I understand that this is a global showcase, but when you sift through the projects that make it through the cracks, what do we find? Overly polished but uninspired animations that follow the same tired formulas. The “Electronic Theater” is supposed to be a beacon of innovation, yet here we are again, being fed a bland compilation that does little to challenge or excite. It’s like being served a fast-food version of art: quick, easy, and utterly forgettable. The call for diversity is also a double-edged sword. Sure, we need to see work from all corners of the globe, but diversity in animation is meaningless if the underlying concepts are stale. It’s not enough to tick boxes and say, “Look how diverse we are!” when the actual content fails to push boundaries. Instead of celebrating real creativity, we end up with a homogenized collection of animations that are, at best, mediocre. And let’s talk about the timing of this event. April 17th? Are we really thinking this through? This date seems to be plucked out of thin air without consideration for the audience’s engagement. Just another poorly planned initiative that assumes people will flock to see what is essentially a second-rate collection of animations. Is this really the best you can do, Montpellier ACM SIGGRAPH? Where is the excitement? Where is the passion? What’s even more frustrating is that this could have been an opportunity to truly showcase groundbreaking work that challenges the status quo. Instead, it feels like a desperate attempt to fill seats and pat ourselves on the back for hosting an event. Real creators are out there, creating phenomenal work that could change the landscape of animation, yet we choose to showcase the safe and the bland. It’s time to demand more from events like SIGGRAPH. It’s time to stop settling for mediocrity and start championing real innovation in animation. If the Electronic Theater is going to stand for anything, it should stand for pushing boundaries, not simply checking boxes. Let’s not allow ourselves to be content with what we’re served. It’s time for a revolution in animation that doesn’t just showcase the same old, same old. We deserve better, and the art community deserves better. #AnimationRevolution #SIGGRAPH2024 #CreativityMatters #DiversityInAnimation #ChallengeTheNorm