Metahuman: Prometheus

普罗米修斯

Virtual Character Experiments (Customization, Projection Mapping, Digital Fashion)

Statement

Metahuman: Prometheus is a series of experiments in creating high-fidelity virtual characters using Unreal Engine 5.2’s Metahuman system. The project explores workflows for customizing metahumans beyond their default limits, integrating tools like Blender, Mesh Morpher, and Substance 3D Painter to fully sculpt and texture unique digital characters.

tools

Unreal Engine 5.2, Blender, Substance 3D Painter, Marvelous Designer, NVIDIA Omniverse Audio2Face, Mesh Morpher Plugin, MadMapper

Credit

Tutorial

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Overview >

The work began with a personal digital likeness experiment, using ARKit face capture to record performances in Unreal Engine. This later expanded into recreating the “Engineer” alien from Prometheus. By sculpting in Blender and re-importing morph targets, I established a process for fully rigged, custom Metahumans with bespoke textures and skin materials.The project also incorporates NVIDIA Omniverse Audio2Face, driving facial animation from audio input. For one experiment, I paired Kanye West’s “I Am a God” speech and track with the Prometheus character, reflecting themes of creation and divinity.

This project is ongoing, with future explorations in AI-driven interactivity, where the digital character could respond to viewers in real time.

Facial Projection Mapping >_

Facial Projection Mapping: Inspired by Nobumichi Asai, I projected the digital performance onto a physical mannequin head, merging hyper-realistic CGI with tangible presence.

Digital Fashion >_

Digital Fashion: Using Marvelous Designer, I designed and simulated clothing for the avatar, importing the garments into Unreal Engine for a virtual runway environment.