Foundry introduces updates for Katana, Mari, and Nuke, including new USD workflows, 2D painting, and multishot capabilities

Foundry has released Katana 8.0 and Mari 7.1 while launching the open beta for Nuke 16.0. These updates bring improvement such as USD-native workflows in Katana, a 2D Painting Mode in Mari, and multishot compositing capabilities in Nuke.

Katana 8.0 now supports full USD roundtripping, enabling seamless export and import of USD data, including lights, materials, and cameras. The software includes new nodes for creating and editing USD assets, as well as performance improvements such as faster scene loading and new debugging tools. Features like pattern-based collections and Scene Explorer collections allow more flexible and efficient handling of multiple shots and sequences.

Mari 7.1 introduces a 2D Painting Mode, allowing artists to create and edit textures directly in 2D with live updates to the 3D node graph. A revamped Smart Mask Shelf and additional grunge textures expand the toolset for creating detailed materials. New workflow features, such as the Switch Node and improved node packaging, enhance flexibility and collaboration.

Nuke 16.0’s open beta introduces multishot workflows, allowing artists to work on multiple shots within a single script, reducing repetitive tasks and improving efficiency. Updates include improved compositing workflows with new Link nodes and ML Planar Tracker tools, enhancements to 3D workflows, and timeline improvements for review and export processes.

The updates align with the VFX Reference Platform 2024, ensuring compatibility and integration across modern production pipelines. These advancements aim to reduce workflow complexity and improve artist productivity.

Visit Foundry’s website for more information and to access the Nuke 16.0 open beta.