College of Arts & Sciences
Department of Art and Art History
Department of Art and Art History

Animation


In the Fall semester, Animation I (ARTS 1700) is offered. This course is designed to introduce students to basic methods and practices in animation, while exposing them to artists working independently in the field. The course will provide an overview of techniques ranging from hand-drawn frame-by-frame animation, to object animation and pixilation. Each class will consist of a short demonstration, viewing of related works, hands-on experimentation and critique. Weekly assignments will further students’ exploration of animation approaches and techniques. The course will conclude with the creation of final projects in which students will develop and create an animated short in a medium of their choosing.

Students  can continue their study of animation in Spring semester with additional animation courses (ARTS 2700 consistently, and ARTS 3700 not currently scheduled ).

Animation II (ARTS 2700)

This class is an intermediate course that explores experimental and traditional animation practices through exercises using 2D digital techniques. Each week will consist of a lecture, screening of related works, and a lab. By the end of this course students will be able to execute short animations, visually express both abstract concepts and conventional narratives, and identify how animation principles affect all animated work be it digital or analog, independent or commercial, refined or rough. Students are expected to play, take risks and work outside their comfort zones.

Principles of Animation (ARTS 3700)

This course has been developed to sit alongside ARTS 1700 and 2700 for students interested in a deeper dive into the practical techniques used in traditional animation. During this class, you will be reacquainted with the ‘principles of animation’, and learn how to create strong believable animations while developing a sense of observation, timing, and motion. The course will primarily focus on 2D mediums, however, the techniques covered are an important foundation in all forms of animation. Classes will consist of short demonstrations, viewing of related works, hands-on experimentation, and critique. The course will conclude with the creation of a final project in which students will illustrate the principles discussed in the course.