olympics Archives - Santasombra https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-tag/olympics/ Sombra, aka Victor Ruano, is a Graphic & Motion Designer, and GenAI Artist. Sun, 27 Sep 2026 01:28:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 https://www.santasombra.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/cropped-icon_santasombra-identity-LOGO-32x32.jpg olympics Archives - Santasombra https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-tag/olympics/ 32 32 36810428 Paris Olympics 2024 • NBC Opening Primetime https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/paris-olympics-2024-nbc-opening/ Sat, 14 Sep 2024 21:12:37 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=15763 Compositing and AI assisted workflow development for NBC’s Primetime in Paris Olympic main title. A broadcast pipeline built in After Effects enabled daily updates of athlete footage throughout the Paris 2024 Games.

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]]> The Primetime in Paris main title served as the opening sequence for NBC’s primetime broadcast of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Designed by Imaginary Forces for NBC Olympics, the cinematic title sequence introduced each evening of Olympic coverage and established the visual tone for the Games across NBC and Peacock.

 

My role focused on compositing and preparing the athlete shots that appear throughout the sequence. A key requirement of the broadcast workflow was the ability to update the opening daily as new competitions and standout moments emerged across the Games. This meant integrating new athlete footage and disciplines quickly while maintaining visual continuity with the established design system.

 

To support this rapid turnaround pipeline, we built an AI assisted compositing workflow inside Adobe After Effects using the plugins Mask Prompter 3 and Lockdown 3. These tools allowed for faster rotoscoping, surface tracking, and precise compositing of athletes into the evolving sequence. The system made it possible to adapt the opening throughout the Games, ensuring that the title reflected the latest Olympic highlights and performances in near real time.

 

This production approach balanced cinematic design with broadcast practicality. The result was a dynamic opening that evolved throughout the Paris Games while preserving the visual identity developed by Imaginary Forces.

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]]> 15763 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 AI-Powered Analysis of Olympic Athletes’ Performances https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/ai-powered-analysis-of-olympic-athletes-performances/ Sat, 10 Jun 2023 20:58:02 +0000 https://www.santasombra.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=15133 The challenge was to use AI to analyze the 100-meter performances of Usain Bolt from the 2008 Olympics and Fred Kerley from the 2023 Diamond League in Dubai. We would extract bone motion data from each athlete and apply these movements to 3D models. These models would be placed on a virtual 3D track, allowing us to see Bolt and Kerley side by side as if they were racing each other. For in-depth analysis, we would be able to pause the performance, zoom in on specific details such as knee height and stride length, and measure the distance between the athletes at 10-meter intervals throughout their respective 100-meter sprints.

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AI-Powered Analysis of Olympic Athletes’ Performances

The challenge was to use AI to analyze the 100-meter performances of Usain Bolt from the 2008 Olympics and Fred Kerley from the 2023 Diamond League in Dubai. We would extract bone motion data from each athlete and apply these movements to 3D models. These models would be placed on a virtual 3D track, allowing us to see Bolt and Kerley side by side as if they were racing each other. For in-depth analysis, we would be able to pause the performance, zoom in on specific details such as knee height and stride length, and measure the distance between the athletes at 10-meter intervals throughout their respective 100-meter sprints.

Raw footage from NBC Olympics

Usain Bolt, 100-Meter Race from the 2008 Olympics In Beijing.

Fred Kerley, 100-Meter Race from the 2023 Diamond League in Dubai.

Edited video for Wonder Dynamics

Masked Video of Usain Bolt’s 100-Meter Race, Isolated Subject for AI Analysis

Masked Video of Fred Kerley’s 100-Meter Race, Isolated Subject for AI Analysis

Wonder Dynamics Replacement videos

Usain Bolt’s Bot replacement (Wonder Dynamics) video 01

Fred Kerley’s Bot replacement (Wonder Dynamics) video 01

Usain Bolt’s Bot replacement (Wonder Dynamics) video 02

Fred Kerley’s Bot replacement (Wonder Dynamics) video 02

Cinema 4D skeletons and track

Bolt & Kerley’s race C4D skeletons • Main Camera

Bolt & Kerley’s race C4D skeletons • Top Camera

Bolt & Kerley’s race C4D skeletons • Medium Close-up Camera

 

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]]> 15133 Paris 2024 Olympic Posters https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/paris-2024-olympic-posters/ Wed, 15 Jun 2022 15:17:41 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1403 I was commissioned to design a series of posters using exclusively AI engines, for a pitch to the IOC for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.

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Paris 2024 Olympic Posters

Paris 2024 Olympic Posters: A Fusion of Art and Innovation
I had the privilege of being commissioned to design a series of posters for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, with a twist: each piece would be created exclusively using AI engines. This innovative approach allowed me to push the boundaries of traditional design, harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to craft visually stunning and thought-provoking artwork.
A Pitch to the IOC
The posters were part of a comprehensive pitch to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), showcasing the potential of AI-generated art to capture the essence of the Olympic spirit. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, I aimed to create a unique visual identity for the Paris 2024 Games.
AI-Driven Creativity
Using advanced AI engines, I explored new ways to express the Olympic values, themes, and emotions. The resulting posters blend dynamic typography, vibrant colors, and abstract compositions, yielding a distinctive and captivating visual language.
Celebrating Human Achievement
Through this series, I celebrated the triumph of human achievement, perseverance, and unity, all core to the Olympic ideals. Each poster tells a story of athleticism, diversity, and global connection, inviting viewers to experience the excitement and inspiration of the Games.
A New Frontier in Design
This project marked a milestone in my creative journey, as I embraced the possibilities of AI-driven design. By merging human imagination with machine learning, I unlocked new avenues for artistic expression, paving the way for future innovations in visual communication.
A Tribute to the City of Light
The Paris 2024 Olympic Posters series is also a tribute to the host city, infusing the artwork with the elegance, sophistication, and joie de vivre that define the City of Light. As the Olympics return to Paris, these posters capture the essence of this iconic event, blending tradition with modernity.

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]]> 1403 Stills Bumpers Tokyo 2020 https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/stills-bumpers-tokyo-2020/ Sat, 07 Aug 2021 15:52:55 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1732 A series of stills bumpers for television that I made for the Tokyo Olympics 2020 for NBC Olympics.

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Stills Bumpers Tokyo 2020 (21) Olympics

Stills Bumpers Tokyo 2020 Olympics: Capturing the Essence of the Games
I had the privilege of creating a series of stills bumpers for NBC Olympics’ television coverage of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. These visually striking graphics were designed to capture the spirit of the Games, showcasing the excitement, drama, and triumph of the world’s top athletes.
A Visual Narrative
The stills bumpers series tells a story of dedication, perseverance, and achievement, highlighting the unique aspects of each Olympic sport. With a focus on bold typography, vibrant colors, and dynamic compositions, these graphics aim to engage viewers and enhance their overall Olympic experience.
Creative Collaboration
This project was a collaborative effort with the NBC Olympics design team, ensuring a cohesive visual identity that aligns with their broadcast standards. My role involved conceptualizing and designing the stills bumpers, working closely with the team to refine the creative direction.
A Lasting Impression
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics stills bumpers series stands as a testament to the power of effective design in elevating the viewer experience. I’m proud to have contributed to NBC Olympics’ coverage, creating visuals that will be remembered long after the Games have concluded.
A Showcase of Artistry
This project allowed me to showcase my skills in motion graphics, blending technical expertise with creative vision. The stills bumpers series demonstrates my ability to work within established brand guidelines while injecting innovative flair, making it a standout addition to my portfolio.

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]]> 1732 Rio Olympics USA Basketball Interstitial https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/rio-olympics-usa-basketball-interstitial/ Wed, 06 Jun 2018 09:41:46 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1881 These are the series of NBC Basketball Interstitial I helped to create during my time in Brazil, at the Rio Olympics 2016 with NBC Olympics. I did the keying, rotoscoping and compositing of all the live action shots.

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Rio Olympics USA Basketball Interstitial

Rio Olympics USA Basketball Interstitial: Bringing the Court to Life
During my time in Brazil for the Rio Olympics 2016, I had the privilege of collaborating on the NBC Olympics Basketball Interstitial series. My role involved meticulous attention to detail, as I focused on keying, rotoscoping, and compositing for all live-action shots.
Creative Process
Working closely with the production team, I ensured seamless integration of visual elements, enhancing the overall viewing experience. My tasks included:
  • Keying: isolating players and objects from the background
  • Rotoscoping: tracing and animating intricate player movements
  • Compositing: combining elements into a cohesive, dynamic visual narrative
Bringing the Game to Life
Through my work on the interstitial series, I helped capture the energy and excitement of the Rio Olympics basketball tournament. The finished product showcased the skill and athleticism of the players, while also highlighting the vibrant atmosphere of the event.
A Memorable Experience
This project allowed me to combine my passion for sports and visual storytelling, working on a global stage with top-notch talent. The experience remains a highlight of my career, and I’m proud to have contributed to the success of NBC’s Olympic coverage.

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]]> 1881 Bumpers Rio Olympics 2016 https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/bumpers-rio-olympics-2016/ Fri, 05 Aug 2016 15:37:36 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1722 These are samples of the Rio Olympics 2016 NBC Bumpers I made during my time in Brazil. I made them using NBC Olympics template designed by a Sr. Designer.

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Bumpers Rio Olympics 2016

Rio Olympics 2016 NBC Bumpers: A Visual Showcase
During my time in Brazil, I had the opportunity to create engaging bumpers for the Rio Olympics 2016, as part of NBC’s broadcast package. Using the template designed by a Senior Designer, I crafted visually stunning samples that showcased my skills in motion graphics and animation.
Project Details:
  • Created bumpers for NBC’s Rio Olympics 2016 broadcast
  • Utilized template designed by a Senior Designer
  • Developed samples that demonstrated my expertise in motion graphics and animation
Creative Process:
Working within the established template, I focused on bringing the bumpers to life through:
  • Animating dynamic graphics and text elements
  • Incorporating Olympic footage and imagery
  • Ensuring seamless integration with NBC’s brand identity
Project Outcome:
The resulting bumpers were a showcase of my creative skills and attention to detail, highlighting my ability to work within established design guidelines while injecting energy and visual interest into the final product. This project allowed me to be part of the Olympic broadcast experience, connecting with a global audience and celebrating the world’s top athletes.

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]]> 1722 Fruit of the Loom https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/fruit-of-the-loom/ Sat, 25 Aug 2012 21:43:05 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1338 A series of advertising pieces made for the Olympic sponsor: Fruit of the Loom, during the London Summer Olympics 2012. I designed and animated all these pieces using Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects & Cinema 4D.

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Fruit of the Loom

Fruit of the Loom Olympic Campaign
In 2012, I had the opportunity to work on a captivating series of advertising pieces for Fruit of the Loom, a proud sponsor of the London Summer Olympics. As the sole designer and animator, I utilized my expertise in Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Cinema 4D to bring these vibrant pieces to life.
Project Highlights:
  • Conceptualized and designed a range of engaging advertising materials, including graphics, animations, and motion graphics
  • Successfully animated all pieces, ensuring seamless integration of 2D and 3D elements
  • Effectively incorporated Fruit of the Loom’s brand identity and messaging throughout the campaign
Technical Skills:
  • Proficiently used industry-leading software, including:
    • Photoshop for image manipulation and design
    • Illustrator for vector graphics and illustration
    • After Effects for motion graphics and animation
    • Cinema 4D for 3D modeling and animation
Project Outcome:
The final campaign was a resounding success, showcasing Fruit of the Loom’s commitment to quality and comfort while resonating with Olympic fans worldwide. My contributions as a designer and animator helped create an unforgettable visual experience, perfectly capturing the spirit of the Olympic Games.

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]]> 1338 Vancouver 2010 – NBC Olympics https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/vancouver-2010/ Sun, 01 Aug 2010 20:23:07 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1293 This is the graphic package for television for the Vancouver Olympics 2010, produced and broadcast by NBC Olympics.

Creative Director: Mark Levy. Senior Designers: David Barton, John Schleef. Integration: Matt Celli, Craig Wilkie. Designers: Ian Bonilla, Borys Jarymovych, Victor Ruano, Jon Berry, Cathy Krebs, Dana Stephenson.

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Vancouver 2010 – NBC Olympics

Vancouver 2010 – NBC Olympics Graphic Package

I had the privilege of contributing my skills as a freelance graphic designer to the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, marking my second Olympic project. The captivating graphic package was produced and broadcast by NBC Olympics, bringing the excitement of the Games to life on television screens across the nation.


Key Team Members:

  • Creative Director: Mark Levy
  • Senior Designers: David Barton and John Schleef
  • Integration Specialists: Matt Celli and Craig Wilkie
  • Designers:

    • Ian Bonilla
    • Borys Jarymovych
    • Victor Ruano
    • Jon Berry
    • Cathy Krebs
    • Dana Stephenson
As part of this talented team, I played a role in creating a visually stunning and cohesive graphic package that enhanced the viewer experience, perfectly capturing the spirit of the Olympic Games. The team’s hard work and dedication ensured that the graphics were not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, providing clear and concise information to audiences worldwide.

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]]> 1293 Anatomy of Michael Phelps https://www.santasombra.com/portfolio-item/anatomy-of-michael-phelps/ Fri, 01 Aug 2008 15:17:04 +0000 http://kenozoik.edge-themes.com/?post_type=portfolio-item&p=1405 A TV show produced and aired by NBC Olympics during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, examined the unique physical characteristics that contributed to Michael Phelps' dominance in swimming. The show, produced by Jack Felling, edited by Phil Parrish, and featuring design and animation by David Barton and Victor Ruano, provided an in-depth look at the factors that set Phelps apart from his competitors.

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Anatomy of Michael Phelps (Beijing 2008)

The Anatomy of Michael Phelps: Unveiling the Secrets of a Swimming Legend
During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, NBC Olympics presented a captivating TV show that delved into the extraordinary physical attributes that propelled Michael Phelps to unparalleled success in the pool. Produced by Jack Felling and edited by Phil Parrish, this insightful program featured innovative design and animation by David Barton and Victor Ruano, offering a fascinating examination of the factors that distinguished Phelps from his rivals.
A Scientific Exploration
Through a combination of engaging visuals, expert analysis, and captivating storytelling, “The Anatomy of Michael Phelps” revealed the unique physiological characteristics that contributed to his dominance in swimming. From his exceptional wingspan and flexible ankles to his powerful core and streamlined body position, the show provided an in-depth look at the physical advantages that enabled Phelps to shatter records and capture the hearts of fans worldwide.
A Visual Showcase
The design and animation elements, crafted by David Barton and Victor Ruano, played a crucial role in bringing this compelling narrative to life. By utilizing cutting-edge graphics, 3D models, and dynamic animations, the team created a visually engaging presentation that not only enhanced the viewer experience but also helped to simplify complex scientific concepts, making them accessible to a broad audience.
A Lasting Legacy
“The Anatomy of Michael Phelps” stands as a testament to the power of innovative storytelling and design in sports broadcasting. This groundbreaking show continues to inspire and educate audiences, offering a unique perspective on the remarkable physical attributes that have cemented Michael Phelps’ status as one of the greatest athletes of all time.

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