Acting and movement analysis for animators

Sarah Perry | Shapes in Motion

This workshop includes a combination of theory, discussion, observation and analysis and practical work, drawing influences from various acting styles and practitioners including Laban and Stanislavski, focusing on techniques particularly useful for the animator to consider. The techniques can be applied to both human and creature character animation.

In the first half of the workshop you are introduced to Laban Movement Analysis (the analysis of character in terms of body, effort, space and shape). Initially, we look at the physical life of characters, how people move, gesture, interact spatially with one another and generally physically behave, ranging from large postural movements to micro facial expressions. How does the body, using non verbal communication, tell a story? How and why do different characters react differently to situations and how is this manifested through the body?

In the second half of the workshop we look beyond the physical to consider the internal life of the character, and how this affects our character performance choices also. Understanding who your character is, where they are, how they feel… before making some rash character decisions.

Join us for this fun and informative workshop which will introduce and develop acting and character movement techniques and ideas which to facilitate your animation work.

Please wear comfortable clothes to move around in.

9.30am-4.30pm (lunch break 12.30pm - 1.30pm)
25 places
£25.00

Digital painting: the fundamentals of environment development

Dave Paget | Sumo Digital

This workshop looks at the early construction of environment painting. Starting with black and white sketches, Dave will demonstrate his painting process providing useful hints and tips. The session will cover composition, layout, how to bring colour into your work, and applying appropriate textures. You will also be guided through the development of your own digital environment painting over the course of the workshop.

9.30am-12.30pm
20 places
£15.00

Game design communication: getting your idea across

Gary Napper | Supermassive Games

A game design is only as good as its communication. If no one can understand what is great about your designs, then people will struggle to accept and work with your ideas. There are many traditional ways of communicating from game design documents to wikis and websites. This workshop will help you learn about formats and methods of communicating and recording your designs and how to communicate them to others, whether your team is a huge AAA developer or an indie team of two. Knowing your game design and how to talk about it is vital. This workshop will show examples of how this is achievable.

9.30am-12.30pm
100 places
£15.00

Drawing for creature design: theory and practice

Rosemary Chalmers |

This workshop provides an introduction to creature design and will cover theory and practice with an aim to create a believable creature concept. Rosemary will demonstrate the principles of creating imaginary animals based on the anatomy of real animals. Topics covered will include: finding inspiration and reference, consideration of behaviour and habitat, and practical guidance on combining animal features through drawing. Throughout the workshop, you will be given guidance and feedback on the creation of your own hybrid creature design.

Equipment needed: Sketchbook and drawing utensils

9.30am-12.30pm
20 places
£15.00