Animation Skills Workshop: Drawing and Design (In Partnership with CalArts) (Online)

Course description

During this 6-week online program, students work on developing observational drawing and design skills (e.g., contour and gesture drawing, prop and character design) under the guidance of an animation professional and seasoned educator. Through participation in lectures, workshops, independent projects, and regular discussion, students advance foundational skills while receiving creative mentorship and enriching their portfolio.

In workshops, faculty will observe students at work and have private discussions with them during the session. Projects will be completed outside of class and submitted to our virtual classroom for live critique. While there is a great deal of independent work allowing for schedule flexibility, students are expected to attend classes that take place one evening a week in real-time.

During this course of study students will: learn how to draw observationally and sustainably for creative work within animation; develop solid drawing skills to create appealing characters that look and feel substantial; learn to conceptualize and design effective props and worlds; develop skill working with the core principles of effective design and composition. This class is offered through a special partnership with CalArts. / Please note that this course does not qualify for the $25 alumni tuition rate.

Open to students 18 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration. Review CalArts non-discrimination policy.

Class meeting details

This class meets weekly on Tuesdays from 8:00-10:00 p.m. CST. In addition to engaging with the instructor during live workshop sessions, students have the option to attend weekly office hours to ensure they are receiving personalized attention and meaningful mentorship.

Prerequisites

This workshop is appropriate for artists who have some drawing skills and a basic understanding of animation principals and practices.

Required materials

Supplies
Students will be required to purchase traditional drawing materials such as drawing paper, pencils, and markers.

Hardware
Access to a computer or tablet, reliable internet, and a camera or phone to photograph/scan and upload your work.

Class resources

This class uses Canvas, CalArts Learning Management System. The Canvas platform provides an instructor-led learning experience. These class sizes are small to facilitate discussion and engagement with your instructor and other students. You have access to recorded content from CalArts instructors and may complete the course work at your own pace with set deadlines. The instructor is available in live sessions to answer your questions and provide individualized feedback on assignments.

Grades and Grading
CalArts Extended Studies Adult Learning courses utilize the following non-credit grading scheme: CRD (Credit): Passing satisfactorily. NCR (No Credit): No credit earned toward degree or certificate requirements. W (Withdrawn): Grade assigned by the Registrar’s Office to indicate withdrawal from course after the end of the standard add/drop period.

Class savings

Register on or before January 19 and save $25.
Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).
Additional savings. Are you eligible?

Questions

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.