Colorful Archives - Santasombra https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-category/colorful/ Sombra, aka Victor Ruano, is a Graphic & Motion Designer, and GenAI Artist. Fri, 18 Sep 2026 17:52:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.2 https://www.santasombra.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/cropped-icon_santasombra-identity-LOGO-32x32.jpg Colorful Archives - Santasombra https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-category/colorful/ 32 32 36810428 Pheromones Series • AI Art Prints by Sombra https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/pheromones-series-ai-art-prints-by-sombra/ Mon, 16 Sep 2024 03:53:53 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=15770 Pheromones is a series of AI assisted illustrations exploring attraction and connection between humans and nature. Created through a hybrid process of sketching, photography, generative AI, and digital illustration, the works are available as limited giclée prints in Richmond, Virginia.

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]]> Pheromones is an ongoing series of AI assisted illustrations exploring attraction, intimacy, and the subtle dialogue between humans and the natural world. The work reflects on how invisible signals shape relationships, drawing inspiration from the biological concept of pheromones as a metaphor for emotional and sensory connection. Created by visual artist Sombra, who recently relocated from California to Richmond, the series reflects a moment of transition and exploration, both geographically and artistically.

 

The images are developed through a hybrid creative process that blends traditional artistic exploration with contemporary generative tools. Each piece begins with loose sketching and photographic studies to establish composition, gesture, and spatial balance. From there, generative AI is used as a visual exploration engine to experiment with unexpected combinations of forms, textures, and patterns. The results are then refined through digital illustration, where color, line, and atmosphere are carefully shaped into the final artwork.

 

This oscillation between mediums allows intuition and technology to interact throughout the process. Rather than replacing traditional methods, AI becomes one layer within a broader artistic workflow that includes drawing, photography, and digital craft.

 

The series is produced as premium giclée satin prints (11 × 14 inches) and is currently available at STUFF-RVA and DAGNABIT! shops in Richmond. Each print is part of the Pheromones series and is individually numbered.

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]]> 15770 Paris Olympics 2024 Illustrations / Paintings / Bumpers https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/paris-olympics-2024/ Tue, 13 Aug 2024 06:16:03 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=14728 For NBC Olympics, a project encompassing six digital illustrations, their matching acrylic paintings, and six bumper templates highlighting the U.S. athletes predicted to win gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

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Paris Olympics 2024 Digital Illustrations / Acrylic Paintings / TV Bumpers

Paris Olympics 2024: A Visual Tribute to Golden Greatness
In collaboration with NBC Olympics, I had the privilege of creating a captivating project that showcases the excellence of U.S. athletes predicted to shine at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This comprehensive project encompasses:
  • Six digital illustrations, each highlighting a gold medal contender
  • Matching acrylic paintings, serving as the conceptual and visual driving force behind the TV bumpers
  • Six TV bumper templates, designed to captivate audiences worldwide, featuring the paintings in the end cards
Meet the Featured Athletes
This project puts the spotlight on six exceptional athletes, each poised to make history in Paris:
  • Caeleb Dressel – Swimming – Aiming for another golden performance
  • Sha’Carri Richardson – Track & Field – Speed and determination personified
  • Noah Lyles – Track & Field – Talent and charisma on full display
  • Simone Biles – Gymnastics – A legend in motion, seeking another golden milestone
  • Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone – Track & Field – Unstoppable force, chasing gold
  • Katie Ledecky – Swimming – A champion’s spirit, propelling her to greatness
A Visual Celebration of Excellence
The acrylic paintings, with their vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, form the heart of this project. They serve as the conceptual foundation for the TV bumpers, distilling the essence of each athlete into a powerful visual statement. As the bumpers conclude, the paintings reappear in the end cards, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer. Through this project, I aimed to capture the dedication, skill, and passion of these remarkable athletes, creating a visual tribute that honors their pursuit of excellence.

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]]> 14728 Los Amores de una Bruja https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/los-amores-de-una-bruja/ Wed, 23 Aug 2023 16:09:35 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=14936 I worked on a short film project at Veritas University in Costa Rica, directed by Professor Jurgen Ureña. They brought me in as a Graphic and Motion Designer. What got me excited were two things: the experimental approach to visuals and using Generative AI as the main tool. It was a chance to try out some new tech and see what we could do with it.

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Los Amores de una Bruja

I worked on a short film project at Veritas University in Costa Rica, directed by Jurgen Ureña. They brought me in as a Graphic and Motion Designer. What got me excited were two things: the experimental approach to visuals and using Generative AI as the main tool. It was a chance to try out some new tech and see what we could do with it.

For the AI stuff, I used Stable Diffusion, Midjourney, Runway, Topaz Gigapixel, and Adobe Firefly.

My work covered five main areas:

  1. Making all the backgrounds: The whole movie was shot on green screen, so I had to create all the environments digitally.
  2. Helping with character designs: I worked on how the characters would look to fit with the AI backgrounds.
  3. Creating the overall look: This meant coming up with a style that would work for the whole film.
  4. Designing movie posters: I made posters to show off what the film was about and its unique style.
  5. Doing the title and credits: I designed and animated the opening and closing sequences.

Using AI for most of this was pretty interesting. It let us create some cool visuals that would’ve been hard to make otherwise. It was a good learning experience and pushed me to try new things in design and filmmaking.

Text prompts & look exploration

Characters development: “bruja mayor”, zombie & “bruja joven”

bruja-mayor-la-bruja zombie-look-la-bruja bruja-menor-la-bruja

Spaces: the house, the forest and the beach

text-prompts text-prompts spaces-la-bruja

The movie poster, and 5 options

Main-poster-design-la-bruja

Main-poster-design-la-bruja

The movie title, and credits

Movie title Los Amores de una Bruja Movie credits Los Amores de una Bruja

 

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]]> 14936 Aspen Snowmass X Games illustration Kinetic Panel Wall https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/aspen-snowmass/ Thu, 06 Oct 2022 15:02:03 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=14805 I created this mural using multiple layers of AI-generated synthetic images (assets) produced by Stable Diffusion and Midjourney. I then used Photoshop to edit the layering, refine the layout and composition, apply color corrections, and create the final export. The interactive wall located at Aspen Snowmass will be located to the right of the Guest Services exit door. It is part functional (hiding rental bins) as well as being decorative (used as both BUTTERMILK signage as well as IG moment). The Interactive Wall has 10 rotating panels, each with 4 sides. Each side has a complete image but when rotated and mixed with the other three illustrations, it continues to make up a full image.

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Final illustration and process

Aspen Snowmass X Games illustration Kinetic Panel Wall

I created this mural using multiple layers of AI-generated synthetic images (assets) produced by Stable Diffusion and Midjourney. I then used Photoshop to edit the layering, refine the layout and composition, apply color corrections, and create the final export.

The interactive wall, located right of the Guest Services exit, serves both functional and decorative purposes. It conceals rental bins while featuring BUTTERMILK signage and providing an Instagram-worthy backdrop. The wall comprises 10 rotating panels, each with 4 sides. Each side displays a complete image, yet when rotated, they create various full images in combination.

Concept Vision: Primarily designed for children’s enjoyment at day’s end, the Kinetic wall offers a final spark of creative discovery. Nearby seating allows parents to relax.

Details: The feature consists of rotatable triangular prisms attached to rods. Colorful graphics adorn each side, engaging guests. Simple seating may be incorporated nearby.

Graphic Application: The panels feature graphics that energize guests as they approach the mountain. Swooping curves, bold typography, and playful illustrations convey a story of discovery and movement.

Each panel side incorporates different elements: illustration, unique materiality, and typography. As panels turn, they align in various combinations, with complementary yet distinct art on each side.

 

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]]> 14805 Luchavestimenta https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/luchavestimenta/ Thu, 08 Sep 2022 17:44:05 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=2584 This is a personal project that involves Ai illustration, fashion, and Mexican lucha libre. It was made with Stable Diffusion and Midjourney.

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Luchavestimenta

Luchavestimenta: A Vibrant Fusion
I combined AI illustration, fashion, and Mexican lucha libre in this personal project, using Stable Diffusion and Midjourney. The result is a unique visual narrative that celebrates Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
A Creative Blend
Luchavestimenta merges bold lucha libre aesthetics with elegant fashion, reimagining iconic luchadores in a futuristic yet nostalgic style. This project showcases the synergy of human creativity and machine learning.
A Visual Fiesta
Join the visual fiesta, where fashion and lucha libre entwine in a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. Luchavestimenta is a journey of discovery, exploring the possibilities of AI-driven creativity.

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]]> 2584 Zygotic Acceleration & 80’s Toys https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/zygotic-acceleration-80s-toys/ Fri, 29 Jul 2022 00:00:45 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1850 This is one of my favorite AI sets that I generated a while back. Zygotic acceleration and 80’s toys. I remastered it today to move the look one step closer to being a 3D render, which was my original intention. However, I still prefer the first generation, which has many visual imperfections and grain. The first generation are the left hand side images and the remastered ones the right hand side. Text prompt: Jake and Dino Chapman ZYGOTIC ACCELERATION, BIOGENETIC, DE-SUBLIMATED MODEL as an Alexander Calder mobile, with abstract 80's toys: Cabbage Pail Kids, My Little Pony, Monchhichi, Rainbow Brite, Care Bears + Jeff Koons, made of plastilina clay, ART INSTALLATION, DIORAMA, extra wide shot, complementary color balance, boring center composition, slick, minimal, octane render, 4k, hd --ar 16:9

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Zygotic Acceleration & 80’s Toys

Zygotic Acceleration & 80’s Toys: A Nostalgic AI-Driven Odyssey
I’m thrilled to revisit one of my favorite AI-generated sets, “Zygotic Acceleration & 80’s Toys.” This captivating series combines the intriguing concept of zygotic acceleration with the vibrant nostalgia of 80’s toys, reimagined as a mesmerizing art installation.
A Tale of Two Generations
The left-hand side images showcase the original, first-generation pieces, complete with their unique visual imperfections and grain. These initial creations possess a distinct character, which I’ve grown fond of. In contrast, the remastered versions on the right-hand side have been refined to resemble 3D renders, aligning with my initial vision.
An Homage to Artistic Influences
This series draws inspiration from the works of Jake and Dino Chapman, Alexander Calder, and Jeff Koons. By incorporating iconic 80’s toys like Cabbage Patch Kids, My Little Pony, and Care Bears, I’ve crafted a captivating blend of art, nostalgia, and technology.
A Visual Representation of Contrast
The complementary color balance, minimal composition, and slick, octane render quality create a striking visual contrast between the two generations. This dichotomy highlights the evolution of my AI-driven creative process.
A Celebration of Imperfection
While the remastered versions boast technical precision, I find myself drawn to the original pieces, with their imperfections and grain. This preference serves as a reminder that sometimes, it’s the imperfections that make a piece truly unique and captivating.

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]]> 1850 The Magnifying Glass Animation https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/the-magnifying-glass-animation/ Fri, 27 Mar 2020 22:44:46 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=14931 This fun project was created for my team at MediaMonks in 2020, during the height of the pandemic when we were all working from home. It commemorates our weekly tradition of passing a magnifying glass, a symbol used to recognize the team member who demonstrated outstanding performance that week. On this special occasion, I decided to pass the magnifying glass to everyone on the team. I know it might seem a bit "cheesy," but I was particularly pleased with the animation and 3D tracking. The audio, created by Michael, also added a great touch to the project.

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The Magnifying Glass Animation

This fun project was created for my team at MediaMonks in 2020, during the height of the pandemic when we were all working from home. It commemorates our weekly tradition of passing a magnifying glass, a symbol used to recognize the team member who demonstrated outstanding performance that week. On this special occasion, I decided to pass the magnifying glass to everyone on the team. I know it might seem a bit “cheesy,” but I was particularly pleased with the animation and 3D tracking. The audio, created by Michael, also added a great touch to the project.

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]]> 14931 La Casa Kitsch https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/la-casa-kitsch/ Sat, 11 Jan 2020 21:31:29 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=2100 This is my ongoing 3D series called: La Casa Kitsch. They are digital spaces made with Cinema 4D and Photoshop.

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La Casa Kitsch

La Casa Kitsch: A Digital Oasis of Whimsy
Welcome to La Casa Kitsch, my vibrant and ever-evolving 3D series, where the boundaries of reality are playfully pushed. Within this digital realm, I craft captivating spaces that embody the essence of kitsch, blending nostalgic charm with modern flair.
Digital Dreamscapes
Using Cinema 4D and Photoshop as my creative tools, I meticulously design each scene, infusing it with a unique personality and character. From lavish textures to bold color palettes, every detail is carefully considered to transport viewers to a world of wonder and enchantment.
A Celebration of Eclecticism
La Casa Kitsch is an ode to the beauty of eclecticism, where disparate elements harmoniously coexist. Each digital space is a testament to the power of imagination, inviting viewers to revel in the joy of the unexpected.
An Ongoing Exploration
As I continue to explore the possibilities of 3D art, La Casa Kitsch evolves, reflecting my fascination with the interplay between nostalgia, modernity, and the human experience. Join me on this captivating journey, as we delve into the whimsical world of La Casa Kitsch, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

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]]> 2100 Mediamonks Blog Graphic Style 2019 https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/mediamonks-blog-graphic-style-2019/ Fri, 22 Mar 2019 21:19:31 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=14909 In 2019, while working at MediaMonks, I was tasked with contributing to the company blog's graphic style. The following images and animations showcase some of the work we developed for this project. Our visual approach embraced a distinctive aesthetic characterized by expansive negative spaces, a vibrant color palette, and bold black outlines. The illustrations feature highly stylized characters with a minimalist flair, resulting in a visually striking and contemporary look. This unique combination of elements created a cohesive and memorable visual identity for the MediaMonks blog, effectively capturing the company's innovative spirit and creative expertise.

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Mediamonks Blog Graphic Style 2019

In 2019, while working at MediaMonks, I was tasked with contributing to the company blog’s graphic style. The following images and animations showcase some of the work we developed for this project. Our visual approach embraced a distinctive aesthetic characterized by expansive negative spaces, a vibrant color palette, and bold black outlines. The illustrations feature highly stylized characters with a minimalist flair, resulting in a visually striking and contemporary look. This unique combination of elements created a cohesive and memorable visual identity for the MediaMonks blog, effectively capturing the company’s innovative spirit and creative expertise.

The blog’s storytelling consisted on 4 different chapters:

1. Need For Always On Content
2. Need For Local Relevancy
3. Brand Ambassadors full
4. Building A Steady Relationship With Flexibility

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]]> 14909 #2 Countdown, Ode to Los Angeles https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/2-countdown-ode-to-los-angeles/ Thu, 27 Dec 2018 21:33:12 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=14901 This was a passion project we undertook at work in 2018. We created a countdown where each artist was assigned one number and one second to design whatever they desired. For my contribution, I fully embraced 3D design using Cinema 4D to craft a one-second ode to Los Angeles, the city where I was based at the time.

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#2 Countdown, Ode to Los Angeles

#2 Countdown: A One-Second Ode to Los Angeles
In 2018, I embarked on a passion project at work, collaborating with fellow artists on a captivating countdown series. Each participant was given a single number and one fleeting second to bring their vision to life. For my contribution, I seized the opportunity to pay tribute to the city that inspired me – Los Angeles.
A 3D Homage
With Cinema 4D as my creative canvas, I delved into the realm of 3D design, crafting a mesmerizing one-second ode to LA. This brief yet impactful moment in time allowed me to distill the essence of the city, capturing its vibrant spirit and eclectic charm.
A Personal Reflection
As I reflected on my time in Los Angeles, I drew inspiration from the city’s iconic landscapes, cultural diversity, and creative energy. My one-second contribution became a personal love letter to LA, a celebration of the experiences and memories forged within its borders.
A Collective Masterpiece
The #2 Countdown project united our artistic voices, resulting in a dynamic and diverse visual tapestry. Each second, carefully crafted by a different artist, formed a cohesive and captivating narrative. This collaborative endeavor showcased our shared passion for creativity and innovation.
A Timeless Tribute
My one-second ode to Los Angeles remains a testament to the city’s enduring influence on my artistic journey. As I continue to explore new creative horizons, this project stands as a reminder of the power of passion, collaboration, and the beauty of fleeting moments in time.

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