Stylized Character Animation

Using key elements of exaggeration to help your demo reel stand out

Artistic & Structural Concepts
Exaggeration & Caricature
Timing & Weight
Squash & Stretch
Posing
Line Of Action, Shapes, & Proportions

What You’ll Learn

The course will go through the full process of stylized animation, starting with collecting references, block out, establishing core features, adding shapes. Understanding how to create an appealing animation that shows proper weight, exaggeration, timing and other key animation fundamentals. Building out your character's capacity and your own ability to pay attention to nuances and the specific character traits that will help your portfolio stand out.

By the end of the course, students will have understood a deep level of stylized animation. They should also have gained knowledge on how to troubleshoot new problems or tasks.

This workshop on stylized animation will consist of six modules of live sessions. You’ll learn core animation design skills and workflows and be part of a community of artists working to achieve next level quality in their work.

By the end of the workshop you'll:

Have developed an understanding exaggeration & caricature.
Understanding advanced body mechanics
Have mastered your own animation
Have hands on experience with today’s best animation tools

COURSE FORMAT: Standard Live

LECTURE TYPE: Live

FEEDBACK: Live Interactive Open Group

DURATION: 6 weeks

ASSIGNMENTS: Due each week. Expect to spend 10-20 hrs/wk viewing lectures, q&a, and time on assignments

MATERIALS: 3D packages such as Maya, 3Dsmax, Modo, or else should be known to follow along

SKILLS LEVEL: Intermediate to advanced

PREREQUISITES: Preliminary knowledge of 3D Software Packages

Curriculum

Week 1

Master Studies

Learn techniques from the animation masters by doing a study of their work.

Week 2

Shapes & Lines

Understand the concept of shape change by using animation principles such as squash and stretch, force and overlap.

Week 3

Breakdowns

Become comfortable exploring different ways to move your character with a simple drawing exercise.

Week 4

Energy

Learn how to break down motion into a bouncing ball to plan your animation and focus on timing, rhythm, and texture.

Week 5

From 2D to 3D

Learn how to apply the techniques you have learned to block your shot and push your 3D rig.

Week 6

Cartoony Tricks

Take your shot to the next level by adding smears, multiples and zips.

Neave Lifschits

Neave is a Senior Animator born in Isreal and moved to Vancouver Canda. Neave has been teaching and working in the animation industry for several years. Some notable projects he has worked on range from a variety of different styles in both 2D and 3D for studios such as Disney, Dreamworks and Sony. Neave began to teach at Animation Mentor and Rise Up Animation, which is when he discovered his love for teaching.