A method includes determining a set of one or more visual appearance values that indicate a visual appearance of an object that is to be placed in an environment. The method includes selecting, based on the set of one or more visual appearance values, a rig that allows the object to be manipulated to exhibit movement in the environment. The method includes applying the rig to the object by associating joints of the rig with respective portions of the object. The method includes animating the object within the environment by manipulating the joints of the rig associated with the object.