Animation & Art

Working in an animation studio or as an independent animator takes a foundation in art, storytelling, movement, and design: a top-to-bottom understanding of the entire production pipeline, from the Concept Artist to the Director.

Animation

As an Animator, whether your tool is a pencil or digital software, you need a strong understanding of the principles of animation. In Classical Animation, you learn about the history of animation and how to work within a professional animation pipeline in a studio environment, as you develop a grounding in story and acting and a thorough knowledge of all the elements that shape an animated film or show: Assisting, Layout, Doping & Slugging, Clean-Up, and Sheet Timing.

From walks to reactions to rotations, exercises allow you to experience the full scope of animation while adding to a well-rounded reel.

Drawing & Art Direction

No matter your medium, it's important to develop core drawing and design skills as a foundation for telling your story and to establish yourself as a creative and versatile artist and designer. Life Drawing, Perspective, Background Design, Composition, and Colour all play a part in building this vital foundation.

Effects Animation

Where there's smoke, there's an Effects (FX) Animator. In Classical Animation, you learn the standards and techniques involved in creating effects animation, and gain a keen understanding of the physical laws and properties of non-character elements: everything from fire to water to pixie dust.

Final Project Development

Guided by our industry-professional instructors and mentors, you bring together all aspects of the Classical Animation curriculum, from Concept to Composition to Sound, as you develop and animate a festival-ready short film.