In this project, we transformed a 16th-century Ottoman miniature into a three-dimensional world.

In the animated film we created for the Türkiye Kültür Yolu Festival, we digitally reinterpreted Matrakçı Nasuh’s miniature of Istanbul, which depicts the Historical Peninsula and Galata. The work was exhibited in various locations across the country during the festival.

As Kabuk Studio, we modeled all architectural structures, natural elements and fine details from the artwork using Blender. We applied the original colors, patterns, and surface textures onto the digital models using projection mapping techniques. With this approach, we created a unique and living atmosphere of Istanbul — one that the viewer could explore step by step.

Since miniature art traditionally avoids the use of perspective, giving depth to the scenes and converting them into 3D required a special design process. Overcoming this challenge while remaining faithful to the spirit of the original work allowed us to bring this experiential video to life.