Archeology of the Futures

03.04.25
Blender rendering of the playground scene in Squid Games
Brainstorming Ideas

2D Matrix Framework

Freedom & Control is generally seen as ideal for maintaining stability, where people can exercise freedom but within an orderly framework.

Freedom & Chaos tends to lead to instability and disorder, despite the good intentions of individual freedom.

Tyranny & Control represents an oppressive society where people's liberties are suppressed for the sake of maintaining control.

Tyranny & Chaos is chaotic and dangerous, as the governing force cannot maintain order even with its oppressive rule.

2D matrix showing control, freedom, chaos, and tyranny
2D matrix depicting two extremes
Imagining a Future

Possible-Plausible-Probable Cone Frame work

Possible: What could happen. The broadest category of futures, which includes all imaginable scenarios.

Plausible: What is likely to happen. This category focuses on futures that are realistic and consistent with current trends, structures, or assumptions.

Probable: What is most likely to happen. These are futures that have a strong probability, based on current data and trends, often focusing on the status quo or gradual evolution.

Freedom and Control could quickly turn into Tyranny and control with unchecked powers. It could come in the form of an elected official that goes power hungry or a laissez-faire businesses becoming monopolies.  

Object Exploration

Reference Images

I found inspiration in TV shows like Alice in Borderland and Squid Game because they explore unsettling realities where survival and human nature are tested in extreme, high-stakes environments. Both series create worlds where the rules are unfamiliar, forcing viewers to confront existential questions about society and human behavior.

Only old, mechanical objects like a 9mm film camera, or diesel engine motorcycles work in their word. The objects in Squid Games represent the stark divisions of class and power in contemporary society.

Squid Games Dalgona Candy
Blender Explorations

Dalgona Candy

I created blender renderings of the Dalgona Candy. I used a simple cylinder as the base mesh for the candy, then modified its shape by scaling and flattening it to resemble the flat, rounded disc of the candy.

Basic Rendering of the Dalgonda candy in Blender
Creating the Playground

Building the Scene

I began recreating the infamous playground scene from Squid Game using Blender, focusing on capturing the playful yet eerie atmosphere. To build the environment, I employed image textures for the sky, creating a whimsical cloud pattern, and for the sandy ground, which required a seamless texture to match the look of the scene's terrain. I utilized UV mapping to apply these textures correctly, ensuring they wrapped around the models without distortion. For lighting, I set up a combination of point lights to mimic the sterol lighting used in the show.

Blender rendering of the playground scene in Squid Games