Mexico City, Mexico - July 20, 2024

Amidst lights and sound, Mexico City's Zocalo hosted the visual spectacle projected on the recreation of the pyramid of Kukulkan. Thanks to a 2D and 3D animation technique, the video mapping transported the people of Mexico City to the world of the Mayan civilisation and the struggle of the revolutionary Felipe Carrillo Puerto through the alignment of animated content on the structure.

Under the title "The Mayan People and Felipe Carrillo. Memoria Luminosa II", this 25-minute show demonstrated how the projected images made the 15-metre high replica appear to move and interact with virtual objects, creating a powerful visual illusion.

This refers to a projection technique that transforms three-dimensional surfaces, such as buildings, sculptures or stages, into dynamic screens for the reproduction of visual content. Unlike traditional flat projections, video mapping takes advantage of the architectural features of the object on which it is projected, generating an illusion of movement and depth.

The process begins with a detailed mapping of the surface to be used as a canvas, using laser scanning or photogrammetry technologies. These tools generate an accurate digital model of the object that serves as the basis for the creation of the visual content.

Subsequently, the audiovisual material is designed using specialised software that allows the images to be precisely adjusted to the chosen surface. Finally, the content is transmitted using high-definition projectors and control systems that synchronise the images with the geometry of the object.

Video mapping has become a popular tool in a variety of settings, including cultural events, live performances, advertising and urban art. The technique has also been adopted by museums and exhibitions, bringing a new dimension of interactivity and dynamism to installations.
With images in association with David Arcos.

SHOTLIST:
1. various video mappings in El Zocalo, Mexico City.