AI animation: Sing, Muse, of ages past, v1 (explained)

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AI animation in the first newbie state. An attempt to create a short story combining various tools and platforms. Maybe I should rather say it was made entirely by AI. I only gave an initial idea and coordinated the efforts.
*sound must be on*

UPDATE: This current AI animation attempt resulted in the following more completed video o the YouTube channel of the Greek Expedition:

AI Tools used in both films:

First attempt (experimental)

Elements of AI animation in first attempt

The AI animation film consists of five elements, two image files and three sound files:

Image files:

  1. Animated image of Hercules fighting Lernean Hydra
  2. An animated super-nova explosion as background

Audio files:

  1. Clip with drums
  2. Narrators voice
  3. Longer orchestral piece with chorus

Flow chart of AI animation Hercules fighting Hydra
Flow chart – click to enlarge
*EDIT: the platform is named ElevenLabs

Analysis and explanation of flow chart

To create this film, I combined five key elements using various AI tools. The visual foundation consists of two image files: Hercules battling the Hydra and a background supernova explosion. I generated these images by prompting ChatGPT and then animating them using Runaway, layering Hercules over the cosmic backdrop.

The audio files

The audio landscape is composed of three distinct tracks. First, a rhythmic drum sound sets the tone for the battle. I crafted this by asking ChatGPT to describe the sonic atmosphere of Hercules’ clash with the Hydra, then converting the resulting text into sound effects using ElevenLabs.

Next, I introduced a narrator’s voice. For this, I prompted Claude AI to create a Homeric-inspired introduction to the battle. I then used ElevenLabs again to generate the narration, opting for a deep, British male voice that I’d previously employed in another project.

Battle of the Titans

The third audio element is an epic orchestral piece titled “Battle of the Titans.” This began as a detailed battle description from ChatGPT, which I refined and input into Udio.com. There, I crafted a symphonic, heroic composition complete with a chorus. Interestingly, the chorus echoes the narrator’s text, creating a powerful auditory synergy.

Put together in video-editor

With these five elements prepared, I assembled them in Final Cut Pro, though any video editing software would suffice for this straightforward compilation. I made minor adjustments to balance the audio and visuals, then added simple text for the introduction and conclusion.

The result is a completely AI-generated short film that brings the legendary battle between Hercules and the Hydra to life through a blend of visuals and sound. It showcases the potential of combining various AI tools to create engaging multimedia content.

If you have any questions about the process or the tools used, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Analysis and explanation of flow chart in sound file:

For any questions or remarks, please contact me here>>

ChatGPT analysis of Flow chart of AI animation

The flow chart of animation AI is divided into two main sections: Image Files and Sound Files.

Image Files Section

  1. Animated Image of Hercules Fighting Hydra:
    • ChatGPT: Generate text descriptions of the desired images.
    • Runway: Convert these images into an animated format.
  2. Background: Supernova Explosion:
    • This serves as the backdrop for the animated scene, enhancing the dramatic effect.

Sound Files Section

  1. Clip with Drum Sound:
    • ChatGPT: Write text describing the battle scenes.
    • Seven Labs: Create sound effects based on the textual descriptions.
  2. Narrator:
    • Claude: Generate short texts introducing the battle scene.
    • Seven Labs: Produce a sound file using the voice of an old British male, narrating the text.
  3. Symphonic, Orchestral, Heroic Music with Chorus:
    • ChatGPT: Write a longer text describing the battle.
    • Udio.com: Create a longer song from the text, using short texts as verses for the chorus.

Workflow Integration

The flow chart illustrates a sequential process where different AI tools and platforms are used collaboratively to produce a coherent and immersive animated film segment.

  • Step 1: Starts with generating an animated image of Hercules fighting the Hydra using ChatGPT for textual input and Runway for animation.
  • Step 2: Integrates a supernova explosion as the background to enhance the visual impact.
  • Step 3: Focuses on sound creation, where drum sounds are added to the battle scenes based on ChatGPT’s descriptions, processed by Seven Labs.
  • Step 4: Involves narration, where Claude writes introductory texts and Seven Labs produces a narrated sound file using an old British male voice.
  • Step 5: Ends with the creation of a symphonic and heroic soundtrack with a chorus. ChatGPT writes an extended description of the battle, which Udio.com transforms into a full song, incorporating short texts as verses for the chorus.

This structured approach ensures that both visual and auditory elements are meticulously crafted and synchronized to create a compelling animation of Hercules fighting the Hydra, set against a dramatic supernova explosion backdrop.

The flow chart visually represents a collaborative and multi-step process leveraging various AI technologies to produce a sophisticated animated film segment, combining detailed visual animations with rich soundscapes and narrative elements.

Instrance – a mid winter pictorial narrative animation

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An experimental animation of an introspective, pictorial narrative nature. It is my first humble attempt to animate a video. Created shortly before the explosion of the AI  during my second COVID-19 disease and quarantine, in January 2022.

During my second COVID-19 quarantine in January 2022, I decided to create a unique animation as a form of artistic expression and introspection. This animation, which I call “Instrance,” is an experimental journey through my personal memories and experiences, captured through a series of images and narratives.

Inspiration and Background

“Instrance” begins with an eye closing and ends with an eye opening. It aims to depict what happens internally during such a brief moment (hence the name “Instrance” derived from “instance”). In this moment, when the eyes are closed, hypnagogic images are created, which are the visuals seen in the animation. The animation seeks to capture the fleeting yet profound experiences that occur in the blink of an eye, blending personal photographs and psychedelic effects to visualize this inner world.

Creative Process

To create this animation, I used a variety of resources from free sources. I especially want to thank Creative Monkey, Videzzy, Savvas Karampalasis, and Motion Mode for their fantastic work, which provided me with high-quality images and video clips. NASA’s open image archive also contributed spectacular space images that added a cosmic dimension to the animation. Finally, I used y2mate to convert some audio files that were an essential part of the soundscape.

The music accompanying the video is a psychedelic remix I created based on a classic rebetiko song, “Περιπλανώνενη ζωή” (Wandering Life) by Vasilis Tsitsanis – one of my favorite pieces.

Rebetiko music, known for its deep emotionality and cultural resonance, was perfect for conveying the nostalgic and introspective atmosphere I aimed for. By remixing this song, I created a sound experience that is both familiar and innovative, enhancing the animation’s impact.

Themes and Message

Instrance” explores the themes of introspection and the ephemeral nature of moments. The animation delves into the internal experiences that occur in the brief instant when we blink. Through personal photographs and psychedelic visual effects, it invites viewers to reflect on the hypnagogic images that emerge during this blink, offering a glimpse into the subconscious. This animation is a journey through fleeting yet profound moments, celebrating the beauty and complexity of the inner world that unfolds in the blink of an eye.

The film also celebrates human creativity and resilience. Despite challenging times, art and creative expression can serve as powerful sources of comfort and inspiration. By sharing “Instrance,” I hope to offer a small glimmer of light in the darkness and a reminder that even in the most turbulent moments, there is beauty and hope.

Future Projects

The positive response I received for “Instrance” has inspired me to continue exploring this type of image-based narrative animation. I am already planning my next project, which will focus on the return of spring and the rejuvenating energy that comes with it. Stay tuned for updates and new here on the blog!

Thank you for taking the time to experience “Instrance” with me. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and comments.

You can find more creative projects on my entire blog here>>

Overwhelmed in Manila Makati

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During my visit to Manila Makati, I was overwhelmed by the immense size and stark contrasts of this sprawling metropolis. A high-tech jungle of skyscrapers, it is one of the most densely populated areas on Earth.

Manila Makari Easton Place Tower, 36 floor, Filips and Neths appartment

Manila Makari, Easton Place Tower

Staying at Mandaluyong, in an Airbnb apartment on the 39th floor, as my base, I explored various parts of the city: Green Belt, Makati Central Square, Ayala Avenue, Easton Place, Rufino Street and much more.

Manila Makati

Sensory Overload

The city felt like an alien, gigantic octopus—a mechanical KRAKEN of concrete, iron, and glass that had come to life along the shores of the Philippine archipelago. This metropolis, like a scene from a science fiction movie, embodies a postmodern anachronism—a living Titan of globalization, sprawling slowly and extending hundreds of kilometers into the haze and mist of its ever-expanding urban sprawl.

Manila skyscrapers, Mandalujong

From an aerial perspective, I experienced high anxiety and vertigo, overwhelmed by the sight of matchbox-sized vehicles and the vast crowds of people, like armies of 24 million ants scurrying through the streets.


Iris Tower, downwards view

Manila assaults the senses with layers of odors—varied and intense. Noise is omnipresent, causing one’s heart to race and the mind to seek a release valve. The muddy waters of the yellow Pasig River, and the stench of insecticides, rot, and exhaust fumes add to the sensory overload.

Pasig river Manila

Armies of guards, both men and women, often armed, are stationed everywhere, trying to maintain control, especially in the so-called protected areas—luxurious towers with suites and pools where the privileged find refuge.

swimming pool in Amorsolo Tower, Makati

This experience was unprecedented for me. The mind struggles to comprehend when, deep within the abyss of the towers, the crowing of a rooster can be heard, a stark contrast to the urban chaos.

Manila Makati birdview

Contrasts Beyond Manila Makati

Venturing beyond Makati, crossing the dividing line of the concrete jungle, I encountered the familiar Asian cityscape—muddy slums, piles of garbage, peanut sellers, small shops like holes between corrugated iron and concrete blocks. Goods of indeterminate nature lined the rough roads, while smelly sewers and red-light districts on Burgos Street further highlighted the city’s multifaceted character.

Reflecting on my journey through Manila Makati, I realized that this city is a true embodiment of contrasts—luxury and poverty, modernity and decay, control and chaos—all coexisting in an almost surreal landscape.

Covid-19 aftermath

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EDIT: This was after my first illness with Covid, under strict lock down in Athens and before the vaccines had come. Because I was in a high risk group, it was a bit scary in that time:

In deep chock when I got the news from the laboratory.

covid19-positive

Molecular/PCR test Covid-19: Traceable

Two weeks full of agony started. 

The following rapid  recording, shortly after the disease, is dedicated to the Luck (Tyche – Τύχη) I had to undergo only relatively light symptoms and a quick recovering.

Deeply grateful for that!

Αs for the anti-bodies and immunity achieved.

Antibodies april21