Animating Art with Dadomani

At pleasedontcode.com, our mission is to empower creative professionals with cutting-edge automation and electronics that bring their artistic visions to life. One of our most inspiring collaborations has been with the Milan-based creative powerhouse, Dadomani Studio, where we had the opportunity to contribute to a modern reinterpretation of a classic visual device: the zoetrope.

About Dadomani Studio

Dadomani is an award-winning creative studio that blends analog techniques, sculpture, animation, and visual storytelling to build compelling narratives for global brands like Ferrero, Versace, and Alfa Romeo. Their hands-on, material-driven approach often involves integrating physical craftsmanship with advanced technology — a perfect match for what we offer.

What Is a Zoetrope?

A zoetrope is a pre-film animation device that dates back to the 19th century. It consists of a cylinder with vertical slits cut into the sides and a sequence of images placed inside. When the cylinder spins, and the viewer looks through the slits, the images appear to animate thanks to the persistence of vision. It's one of the earliest forms of motion picture technology — a simple yet powerful illusion of life.

Over the years, modern creators have reimagined the zoetrope using 3D printed figures, stroboscopic lighting, and motor control to build hypnotic installations that blur the line between art and engineering.

Our Contribution: Bringing Motion to Ideas

In the Dadomani project, pleasedontcode.com provided the automation system to control both the motor mechanics and lighting effects of the zoetrope installation. This involved:

• • Precision motor control to ensure consistent and smooth rotation.

  • Synchronized lighting systems to create stroboscopic effects that animate physical sculptures.

  • Custom electronic design to integrate all components into a reliable, responsive system.

Our technical work allowed Dadomani’s creative vision to physically move — quite literally — turning a collection of static models into a mesmerizing animated spectacle.

Technology Meets Storytelling

This collaboration with Dadomani is a perfect example of how technology can enhance artistic expression. By combining our engineering know-how with their creative direction, we helped build an experience that captivates, educates, and entertains.

Whether it’s motors, lights, or complex installations, pleasedontcode.com is proud to support artists, designers, and creators in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.