Archive translation. Beta features, links, specifications and availability reflect the original publication date in 2021. Verify current release information before production use.
In brief: Foundry released Mari 5.0 in beta, adding Python 3.7, initial USD support and workflow improvements for texture painting.
Python and platform alignment: The move to Python 3.7 supported the CY2020 specification of the VFX Reference Platform. For facilities still migrating from Python 2.7, Foundry also made Mari 4.8 available with the newer feature set while retaining the older Python version.
USD workflow: Users could import USD assets into Mari and export preview views to Katana. At that stage, reports indicated that the workflow was limited to meshes, but it established a basis for closer interoperability between Mari and Katana.
Foundry also introduced a shader resembling UsdPreviewSurface. Brush-system updates added multiple colours for “splats” and allowed colour images, rather than only an image’s alpha channel, to define brush tips.
Node and filter improvements: Bake Point filters enabled effects such as Gaussian blur to be applied non-destructively without leaving the Node Graph. An optional snap-to-grid mode improved node-graph organisation and layout.
Foundry’s archived Mari release notes provided further details. Digital Production also covered Mari 4.6v4 and Mari 4.7.
Validate the current Mari release, Python environment, USD scope, Katana compatibility and migration requirements before production deployment.
