ABOUT

Overview
Intelligent Sugar GmbH is focused on developing ‘intelligent sugar’—an innovative alternative to traditional sugars, rooted in the metabolic science of world-renowned researcher Dr. Johannes Coy. They approached me to create an explainer video that would demystify complex metabolic processes and present their scientific message in an engaging, accessible way.

The Challenge
The brief was to explain the human body’s relationship with sugar, spotlighting key concepts such as cellular metabolism and the TKTL1 enzyme — aka, the “TKTL1 Factory.” The core challenge: most of the ideas in the script were abstract and biologically technical. I needed to find a visual language that would resonate with everyday viewers without compromising the science.

Creative Approach
Once the script was finalized in collaboration with the client, I developed a storyboard using a combination of:
Typography: Used throughout the video to support and clarify scientific terms.

Vector Illustration: Provided a softer, friendlier contrast to the scientific content—avoiding a “lab coat” aesthetic and leaning into clarity and charm.

Smooth Transitions: The animation style prioritised continuous visual flow—each scene blends into the next to aid comprehension and maintain viewer attention.

Production Tools
Voiceover and music: AI voiceover from Artlist allowed for flexible testing of tone, gender, and accent. Edited in Adobe After Effects
Storyboarding: Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
Animation: Adobe After Effects (primary tool for visuals and audio)
3D Elements: Cinema 4D for specific elements
Sound FX: Artlist SFX library. Edited in Adobe After Effects

The Result
The final video effectively communicated the science in a way that felt fresh and digestible. The client was thrilled with the result, and the video now features prominently on their website.