Transforming vivid handcrafted paper sets with CGI motion. 

As part of a long-standing collaboration between paper artist Owen Gildersleeve and Scottish Whisky brand The Balvenie, we were tasked with making Owen's physical paper sets move. 

The creative direction was develeoped by agency Here Design, and realised by Owen who designed and crafted a series of intricate paper sets that celebrate the craft that goes in to the distinctive flavour profiles of each whisky. These were photographed in camera, before extending the project into a second phase – collaborating with CGI specialists Parallel, to carry the campaign into animation.

Together with Parallel, we reimagined Owen’s paper worlds in CGI, creating a suite of animations that echoed the tactile textures, layered construction, and warm lighting of the sets. These dynamic, flavour-led sequences expanded the still imagery into motion, bringing The Balvenie’s story to life across digital platforms and new channels whilst remaining true to the handcrafted nature of the idea.

The project showcased how handcrafted and digital craft can work together. By carefully managing the stills production and ensuring consistency with Owen’s design language, the CGI animations felt like a natural evolution of the photography. The result was a multi-faceted campaign that moved seamlessly between paper, image, and motion – expanding The Balvenie’s story and resonance.

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