Mari is a professional 3D texturing and painting tool developed by Foundry, widely used in film, animation, and game production. It allows artists to paint directly onto 3D models using high-resolution textures, making it ideal for creating detailed, realistic surfaces.
Mari in Minutes
Lesson 1: Introduction to textures
Kick off your journey into texture painting in VFX and animation with Lesson 1 of Mari in Minutes. Learn what textures are, why they matter, and how they add realism and emotion to digital assets.
Lesson 2: Color theory essentials
Color sets the tone, mood, and meaning behind every texture. In Lesson 2 of Mari in Minutes, explore the basics of hue, saturation, and brightness, and how artists use color to support storytelling.
Lesson 3: Texture workflow & references
Great textures start with a solid workflow and strong references. In Lesson 3 of Mari in Minutes, explore the texture pipeline and learn how to build and use a reference library to boost quality and speed.
Lesson 4: UVs and mapping explained
Unwrap the mystery of UVs! Learn how UV mapping connects 2D textures to 3D models in texture painting for VFX and animation. This lesson breaks down the basics and why it matters.
Lesson 5: Shader maps — diffuse, specular, bump
What’s the difference between a diffuse, specular, and bump map? Learn how each texture type plays a unique role in bringing 3D models to life in VFX and animation. You’ll walk away with a sharper eye for spotting them!
Lesson 6: Intro to Mari’s interface
In this edition of Mari in Minutes, join us for a guided tour of the interface so you can start texture painting in VFX and animation with confidence. Learn how to navigate the workspace, toolbars, palettes, and canvas.
Lesson 7: Painting tools & layers
In this lesson, get hands-on with Mari’s painting tools from brushes to rollers and blur effects. Gain control and flexibility in texture painting.
Lesson 8: Introduction to node-based workflow
Unlock the power of Mari’s node-based workflow using the Node Graph UI. Learn about the benefits of nodes, how they differ from layers, and build yourself a simple node tree.
Lesson 9: Working with nodes (Color, Merge, Paint)
Start texture painting in VFX and animation using Mari’s Color, Merge, and Paint nodes. Discover how these essential nodes work together in a simple setup to bring your textures to life.
Lesson 10: Procedural textures
Learn how to apply procedural textures in Mari using nodes: a fast, flexible way to add detail in texture painting for VFX and animation. This lesson covers what procedural textures are and how to start experimenting with them in your own workflow.