Development Journal for Project 1: Synthwave

Inspired by synthwave/vaporwave art and music styles, I decided to bring the pictured retro-futuristic landscapes from 2D into 3D. The common themes among most of these synthwave landscapes include forward-moving perspective, vibrant sun on the horizon, wireframed terrain, and neon gradients. The compositions tend to evoke a retro/nostalgic feeling often associated with synthwave; some might describe the feeling as akin to “riding into the sunset in a DeLorean.”

However, these landscapes limited to 2D representations; we do not get a 360-degree view of the entire environment. Thus, I hope to create an interpretation of a synthwave environment in 3D. Key goals I wish to accomplish include making the environment behind the viewer — facing away from the sun — interesting in some way as to promote more active head-turning, as well as creating a more dynamic environment with subtle movements (i.e.: swaying palm trees). In addition, I hope to incorporate synthwave/vaporwave music, likely as ambient sound. Lastly, I hope to add some personal touches to the environment that expand on the ideas and feelings surrounding the composition while staying true to the retro-futuristic vibe of the environment.