Eternal Cycle

2023

2 weeks

Computational Design, 3D Animation

Rhino, Grasshopper, Maya

Computational Designer

Leah Bian, Joy Wu

Overview“Eternal Cycle” represents the raw reality of natural decay with the contemporary dialogue on digital existence and immortality. In an era where digital life and the quest for digital eternity dominate discussions, our work offers a poignant reflection on the true essence of mortality and its impact on our life choices and perceptions. 

This visual narrative explores the process of the human body returning to the earth, which challenges the ritualized notions of modern death. It confronts the often-dreaded concept of dying unnoticed in nature, a fate shared by the vast majority of life forms on our planet. Yet, within this seemingly tragic end, there emerges a powerful narrative about the resilience of human life – the belief, both blind and beautiful, that humanity will persist in some form on this planet. Through this exploration, we question the perceived singular traits of humankind and the foundations of such beliefs. 

In the context of contemporary discussions about digital life and immortality, “Eternal Cycle” prompts a reevaluation of “mortality.” What does it mean in a world increasingly focused on digital perpetuation? Is there a profound, perhaps overlooked, eternity in our physical return to the earth within the unceasing life cycle of the planet?