19 Apr

Blender for mathematicians: a beginner’s workshop

Facilitator: Rémi Coulon

Blender is an open source 3D graphics software, popular among digital artists for its organic virtual sculpting environment and advanced animation tools. This workshop is intended for beginners. No prerequisite in computer graphics is needed. During the sessions, participants will learn how to use native structures (meshes, bezier curves, nurbs, etc) along with Python scripts to build and modify objects. We will also cover the use of “nodes” to control features in Blender, allowing one to interact with models by dynamically changing control parameters. Finally, participants will learn how to export their models for 3D printing, animate a simple scene, and render it with lights and textures.

Our first meeting will be held jointly with the Grasshopper Workshop, so participants can understand the differences between these computer graphics packages.


  • What prerequisite knowledge or skills will the workshop assume?

    Linear Algebra, Solid geometry, Parametric curves and surfaces.

    A first experience with Python is a plus, but absolutely not mandatory.

  • What specific preparation or tasks should participants have completed prior to the beginning of the workshop?

    A three button mouse is highly recommended (but not mandatory).

    Participants are encouraged to come with ideas of objects / animations they would like to create. It can be a simple project such as reproducing an existing object you like. Practicing on concrete examples will make the office hours / peer collaboration time more efficient.

  • What outcomes should participants expect to achieve by the end of the workshop?

    The students will learn how to create, animate/print 3D models in Blender. To that end we will explore various techniques (direct modeling/sculpting, parametric description, node based programming, etc).
    Blender is an extremely rich tool with an active community producing numerous add-ons. We have no intent to be exhaustive. The student will gain familiarity with the software so that they can explore it by their own later.

  • Will there be specific projects for participants, or should participants have their own projects in mind already?

    Students are encouraged to come with their own project. A list of projects will also be provided.

Blender is an open source 3D graphics software, popular among digital artists for its organic virtual sculpting environment and advanced animation tools. This workshop is intended for beginners. No prerequisite in computer graphics is needed. During the sessions, participants will learn how to use native structures (meshes, bezier curves, nurbs, etc) along with Python scripts to build and modify objects. We will also cover the use of “nodes” to control features in Blender, allowing one to interact with models by dynamically changing control parameters. Finally, participants will learn how to export their models for 3D printing, animate a simple scene, and render it with lights and textures.

Our first meeting will be held jointly with the Grasshopper Workshop, so participants can understand the differences between these computer graphics packages.