Recently, Foundry has officially released Mari 7.1, the latest version of its industry-leading 3D texture painting software. This update introduces several key features, including a new 2D Paint Mode for efficient creation and editing of 2D images, as well as a Switch node for generating texture variations.
| New 2D Paint Mode for Streamlined Image Editing
A standout addition in Mari 7.1 is the innovative 2D Paint Mode, which allows users to create and edit 2D images directly within Mari without the need to switch to external applications such as Photoshop. This feature is ideal for tasks such as removing imperfections from source images or creating custom decals and grunge maps.
The 2D Paint Mode integrates seamlessly with Mari’s 3D painting toolset, including the Paint Buffer, Node Graph, and Layer Stack. Accessible via a new 2D pane alongside the Orthographic view, users can quickly toggle between 3D and 2D modes for a more fluid workflow. Additionally, users can export the Node Graph to disk in the new “.mrimg” file format while working in 2D mode.
A new Image Write node, specifically designed for 2D workflows, allows users to bake 2D images to the Image Manager, which are automatically updated with each rebake.
| Enhanced Switch Node for Texture Variations
Mari 7.1 also introduces a new Switch node, which enables artists to create and toggle between multiple texture variants—such as clean and dirty states—by selecting specific areas of the Node Graph to render. This flexible feature streamlines the process of generating texture variations in a single workflow.
| Workflow Enhancements for Node Graph
The update brings a range of improvements to the Node Graph, including the ability to click within a Backdrop node to select all nodes contained within it. Users can now save parts of the node graph as Shelf items, consolidating the node network and any associated source images into a single Node Package for greater efficiency.
Additionally, the update introduces the option to select from color swatches when creating a new Paint node, with the added capability for users to create and manage custom swatches.
| Custom Procedurals Renamed to Smart Masks
Mari's existing Custom Procedurals system has been rebranded as Smart Masks to better align with user expectations and enhance workflow clarity. The new terminology, now consistent with that used in Adobe's Substance 3D Painter, provides users with improved visualization options for utilizing procedural groups in their projects.
Mari 7.1 also includes a new Grunge shelf featuring pre-made Smart Masks curated by Stuart Ansley, Lead Texture Artist at Digital Domain.
| Updated Third-Party Libraries and VFX Reference Platform Compatibility
While Mari 7.1 remains on the CY2023 specification for the VFX Reference Platform, two versions behind the lates00t release, several third-party libraries have been updated to ensure continued compatibility with the latest industry standards.
Source: Foundry
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