Schedule
Thu, 3:15 PM - 6:15 PM (9/7/2026 - 12/16/2026) Location: SLC HEIM 129
Thu, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM (9/7/2026 - 12/16/2026) Location: SLC HEIM 135
Description
This project-based animation course will explore the art of stop-motion through a wide range of material processes. Using classical techniques as a foundation, students will approach animation as an improvisational and exploratory practice, investigating both the art form and its technical applications. During the first half of the year, students will focus on limited down-shooting animation through a series of workshops centered on materiality, concept development, and postproduction editing. In the second half of the course, students will expand into upright camera projects, including pixilation and green-screen performance work. Blending handmade techniques with digital tools, students will develop their animation skills to create stop-motion works that communicate through cutout and other material-based methods. Working with Dragonframe, Adobe After Effects, and select Toon Boom software, students will share drawings, ideas, materials, and performances while producing short animated films in a collaborative workshop environment. The course will begin with the design and creation of flipbooks, followed by the construction of a simple 2D cut-out puppet. Students will explore how to generate movement using various materials, light, and camera techniques within two-dimensional space. Later projects will focus on live action pixilation and green-screen silhouette work. Throughout the year, students will engage in all stages of directing a short stop-motion film—from initial concept to final edit. The course will culminate in a final project: an original short film created using the student’s chosen animation material from those explored in class. Biweekly in fall, students will alternate between individual conferences with the instructor and small-group activities. Biweekly in spring, students will meet with the instructor for individual conferences. Claymation will not be utilized in this course.