Animation Concentration

Animation calls upon the theories and artistic practices of animation, cinema, motion graphics, games and technology. Students in this concentration study animation through a combination of traditional media and digital tools. In-class critiques of personal work and investigation of the history of animation and interactive art are emphasized for the development of a framework from which students can begin their path as animators and interactive artists.

Advanced-level courses in animation incorporate technically intensive experience in 3-D computer animation and digital compositing, as well as exploration of emerging practices including real-time applications and performance or interactive animation. Interactivity courses address critical and aesthetic issues across a variety of forms including internet art, games, simulators, and immersive environments. A thorough preparation in interactive techniques, including scripting, opens students to a deeper understanding of interaction design principles and aesthetics, taking them beyond a “point and click” paradigm of interaction and encouraging the exploration of interactivity as a complex field of exchange between artist: audience, creator: participant, organism: machine, body: space and self: other.

Throughout the Animation program of study, students are encouraged and expected to develop their own artistic voice through exploration of the media and critical review of their work. Students completing the Animation concentration have the opportunity to produce a fully-developed work at the culmination of the program.

Note:

ART 341 is the gateway course. ART 341 - Introduction to Animation must be passed with a grade of “B” better for students to continue on to upper-level animation courses.