Other than the background, this image is done with maths. I made a 3D fractal with Mandelbulber2. I then applied a Gimp MathMap animation filter and modified the expression formula. You can do this with MathMap in real time and come-up with a whole new expression formula. If you are familiar with Mathmap try swapping a single 'x' or 'y' value in the expression box and test it out with the 't' slider.

It's normal for people to regard 3D fractals as infinite because without a bailout sequence they could go on forever. MathMap is based on it's own maths language and the existing filters can be further developed by anybody. So it's possible MathMap is also infinite.

MathMap is up to 18 years old but is still being developed by enthusiasts.
https://github.com/schani/mathmap
It's much easier to compile now and binaries are available.
Here is a webm version of the above animation:
https://gfycat.com/MatureRigidBlackbird

What a thought!

Have the latest; like the node interface. MM hasn't been upgraded in nearly a decade though. Regardless, it still works with my version of GIMP (2.8.22).

lylejk said
There has been some recent development but the version numbers have not changed.

I will probably have to compile a new Windows version when I get time.
I just took a screengrab of this....




I found the article here.
That's a new MM expression that could be added to the program.

That is a beautiful image - kind of like a cross between a photo and a Mandelbulb3D render.

That does look impressive, Tas. Hope you can compile a 64-bit version for Windows.

Hi Erisian,
"a cross between a photo and a Mandelbulb3D render".
I know what you mean - the digital art tools are starting to influence each other.

For me the 3D Mandelbulbs are a form of pure art because the artist is overseeing mathematical equations rather
than directly expressing an idea.
Also the artist is becoming a programmer. That's good if you like design and coding.