Introduction to Animation

Course information

Course description

Introduction to Animation is a three-day course that focuses on storytelling through stop-motion animation. You will have the opportunity to explore innovative and original ways of creating and constructing character and narrative. You will be introduced to industry-standard animation equipment, software, and techniques such as DragonFrame and Stop Motion. This course focuses on the importance of sound and movement in particular, challenging you to reinterpret and invent your own short animated film. There will be elements of collaborative group work, as well as time to explore animation independently, to reflect the many roles involved in the animation process in industry. On completion of this course you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to produce your own animations and independently explore the possibilities of stop-motion.

Example Course Structure

• Day 1: Sequence and Narrative
  Today participants will be introduced to important animation processes and principles, such as storyboarding, frame rate & key frames. Based on a selection of found audio pieces participants will explore sequential image making, narrative storytelling and character development as well as being introduced to industry standard software such DragonFrame.
• Day 2: Let's Animate!
  Participants will spend today animating on DragonFrame, bringing the ideas of their narratives and characters to life!
• Day 3: Editing and cinema
  As well as putting the finishing touches to their animated sequences, participants will also be working on bringing together their final films and adding sound using industry standard editing software. The day will finish with a group viewing of all the films that have been created.

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Course tutors

This course is led by Alice-Mayall and Lauren Veevers, both professional animators and tutors on the Foundation course at KSA who've worked for clients such as Hubbub, Okido Magazine, Scoop Magazine, the Women's Institute, and Chocolate Films.

What to bring

A basic list will be sent to you a week in advance of the course start date. All other materials are provided by Kingston School of Art (KSA).