I’ve been working on this style/technique for a while now… gathering inspiration, scanning/hoarding textures, drawing vector plants and rockets. Most of these elements have been in my stash for a year or longer. There has been a vague vision in my head, and I think I’m finally getting it. Layers of textured paper with shadows/depth between them. Lighting applied over the whole thing to saturate the center region, while darkening the edges. Finally a lens blur to the edges to add to that perceived depth.

I love the idea that you are seeing all this inside some kind of old-fashioned Viewmaster, a projector with a thick glass lens or a Magic Lantern. In motion graphics, the layers would move/focus independently – and selectively to nail that depth of field effect – and a hint of flickering light over the whole thing could certainly add to the vintage projector feel. I wish there was a way to add that burning dust smell.

I’m sure this will evolve quickly, now that I’ve finally gained some traction. I hope so.