Course

Project

Project – Creating a short-graphic/animated video output with sound, based on given theme.

Unit I

Introduction to Animation

Introduction to representation of motion. Early depictions of Movement- History of Animation. Science behind animation. Different mediums in animation – traditional and digital.

Unit II

Creating Movement with Pictures

Basic drawing and animation principles. Introduction to storyboarding and animatics. Creating character profiles with sketches. Animating basic expressions.

Unit III

Principles of Animation

Traditional principles of Animation – squash and stretch, anticipation, follow-through, etc. Identifying the principles applied in animated films.

Unit IV

Animation Production

Basic stages of animation production (pre-production, production, post-production). Overview of Digital Animation Software.

This course aims to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and skills to conceptually develop, visually communicate, and technically execute engaging animated stories, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of storytelling principles through the lens of animation, experimenting with diverse styles and techniques. They will learn to analyze existing works, apply fundamental animation principles, and develop their own narratives by creating storyboards, animatics, and short animated films. By actively participating in peer discussions and critiques, students will improve their communication and collaboration skills, while adopting a critical approach towards their work and the work of others. Through this comprehensive learning experience, students will gain the necessary foundation to explore their creative potential and contribute meaningfully to the exciting world of animated storytelling.

Course Outcome (CO):

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• CO1 Understand the key principles of storytelling in animation, like character development, visual narrative techniques etc.
• CO2 Evaluate various animation styles, understand their characteristics and impact on the storytelling process, and use appropriate software for analysis.
• CO3 Apply fundamental animation principles to create expressive characters and movement within an animated sequence and solve problems of relevance to society.

• CO4 Identify, deconstruct, and communicate the narrative elements used in existing animated works, evaluating their effectiveness in conveying a message or emotion.
• CO5 Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of different animation techniques, understand the moral dimensions of these decisions, and determine their suitability for specific narrative
• CO6 Develop and produce an original, short, animated video that visually communicates a personal story or message, applying the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the course, and engage in independent and life-long learning.

CO-PO Mapping:

Suggested References:

1. The Animator’s Survival Kit by Richard Williams1: This book is considered a must-have for any aspiring animator, as Williams divulges tips, tricks, and techniques that he himself has used and uses to this day2.
2. The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation by Ollie Johnston1: This book provides a deep dive into the world of Disney animation1.

3. Cartoon Animation by Preston Blair12: Published in 1994, this guide by Preston Blair is an old, but extremely valuable resource for aspiring animators2.
4. The Art of Tangled by Jeff Kurtti1: This book provides insights into the art and animation of the movie “Tangled”1.
5. The Art of Finding Nemo by Mark Cotta Vaz1: This book provides a look into the art and animation of the movie “Finding Nemo”1.
6. Directing the Story: Professional Storytelling and Storyboarding Techniques for Live Action and Animation by Francis Glebas1: This book provides professional storytelling and storyboarding techniques for live action and animation1.
7. The Art of How to Train Your Dragon by Tracey Miller-Zarneke1: This book provides insights into the art and animation of the movie “How to Train Your Dragon”1.
8. The Art of Pixar by Amid Amidi1: This book provides a look into the art and animation of
9. Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon1: This book provides insights into the creative process1.
10. Anatomy: A Complete Guide for Artists by Joseph Sheppard1: This book provides a complete guide to anatomy for artists1.