Urgent: After Effects Animator - Projection Mapping Animation

- Project type: One-off animation project
- Software required: Adobe After Effects Only. (no other platforms)
- Experience level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Delivery: ASAP + Editable After Effects project files only (not final render)
- Duration of animation: 5–7 minutes total (loopable)

The project:
We're creating a projection-mapped art installation called "The Fold" - a wall-mounted origami-style sculpture made up of pyramids. Your task is to bring this piece to life with a 5–7 minute animated sequence, broken into five narrative chapters.
The full structure and pyramid layout are already set up in After Effects. You do not need to create geometry, camera setups, or projection mapping - this is all done. Your job is to animate directly onto the structure using the story and design direction provided.

The five chapters to animate:
1. Ignition - soft light pulses from the center like a heartbeat, illuminating folds gradually
2. Topography - elevation lines ripple across the form with aged paper textures and tones
3. Connectivity - fine lines connect peaks, resembling neural networks or city grids
4. Energy Pulse - rhythmic glow pulses expand from key regions, with shimmering crescendos
5. The Drift – outer shapes fade or lift, with soft dust-like trails and a return to stillness

Visual direction:
- Abstract, atmospheric, and restrained (not chaotic or overly fast)
- Movement should feel like light, not electricity or power
- Warm minimal palette: white, parchment, light gold, soft glows
- Must feel elegant when projected on a physical 3D surface

Moodboard / storyboard can be found here: https://miro.com/app/board/uXjVICuLrmA=/?share_link_id=359085866006

What you’ll be given:
- The After Effects project with all 3D pyramid geometry and comp setup
- A scene-by-scene storyboard with visuals and timings
- Optional reference clips from Storyblocks if you'd like to use overlays or textures
- Regular feedback and reviews during the project

Plugins:
- Do not use any paid plugins
- You are welcome to use free tools like Saber, Animation Composer, etc.
- Project must be 100% open and editable for our internal team to tweak after handover

Deliverables:
- One fully animated After Effects project with all five scenes ready to play in sequence
- Clearly labeled comps and layers for easy navigation
- Final project must be editable and organized (no pre-rendered locked footage)

To apply:
Please provide:
- Relevant After Effects work samples, especially abstract/environmental animation
- Confirmation that you’ll work without paid plugins
- Estimated turnaround time

Please do not apply if you do not have relevant experience - We must see visual examples of work ahead of discussing, so please ensure you include that on the intro email.

Looking forward to collaborating with someone thoughtful, detail-driven, and imaginative.