In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method comprises receiving a time period indication selected by a user for a group of objects including a plurality of data points. The plurality of data points are mapped to features selected by the user. Key frames are generated for the group of objects for each interval of time of the time period. Relations can be inserted between any pair of objects. The group of objects and relations are rendered using the key frames over the time period to generate an animation. An object position is offset during animation according to an elasticity variable associated with the relations that is selected by the user. Positions in between key frames are interpolated to provide smooth rendering between variable time frames. In an alternate embodiment, the object position is offset during animation according to features of the group of objects selected by the user, with or without the elasticity variable.