A new generation of artists is now learning with Blender
At Haute École Albert Jacquard (HEAJ) in Belgium, Blender and SideFX Software now lead the VFX 3D program.
A bold and successful choice, as shown by the 2025 graduation projects rendered with Cycles.
The three-year program starts with a general first year, followed by an intensive 3D specialization.
After an internship in their final year, students produce their graduation films in small teams within just four months.
As a 2025 jury member, I was truly impressed.
The Conquest
by Anais Delattre , Mathieu Pizzolante , and Naseem Sabbah .
👽 What first seems like a simple documentary about Earth is revealed to be intercepted alien war propaganda to reclaim the planet.
🎬 Science Fiction: 3min16s
👉 Full project here: https://youtu.be/SWAwZiz6QzQ
1789
by Caroline Brambach , Giuseppe Chiodo , and Simon Malotaux .
🔥 The French Revolution erupts, revealing through a woman’s words an intimate and poignant testimony of those caught in the turmoil.
🎬 Historical Drama: 3min17s
👉 Full project here: https://vimeo.com/1093865809/2e39ba540e
Overshoot
by Célia Bourgeois , Aloïs Colard , and Noah JACQUES .
✈️ Two F-16 pilots are sent to destroy a hidden strategic bridge when an enemy fighter suddenly appears, forcing an intense aerial battle.
🎬 Action / Aviation Drama: 3min56s
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👉 Full project here: https://youtu.be/iemA4EEvOns?si=31GPsbkRPMZC5nFt
Remains
by Marcellin Gillard , Antoine De Waegeneer , and Younes Sghiouar .
⚔️ Deep in the Japanese mountains, a former swordsmith is haunted by a cursed blade he once forged and the tragic loss it caused.
🎬 Drama: 3min10s
👉 Full project here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_u0vTfM7TsQ
Butterfly Effect
by Cyril Defoeux .
🦋 A lone space traveler lands on a distant planet, drawn toward a colossal crater until a single decision changes everything.
🎬 Sci-Fi / Exploration : 1min24s
👉 Full project here: https://vimeo.com/1117112158
And this is just a glimpse, many other projects made are available on the school’s official 3D program YouTube channel 🎬
A big congratulations to all the students for their creativity and dedication 👏
The future of 3D and VFX is in good hands with Blender 🔥
Next year I’ll support the new class in their graduation projects. See you in a year with new creations 🚀
Thomas Marcos Congratulations. 👏