This course is a study in contemporary media utilizing a variety of digital art and design software applications. The class focuses on the use of Adobe image and design software for the creationg of illustrations, digital photos, page layout and web design projects. The class is structured around projects emphasizing the art elements of line, shape, color, and texture. It will introduce the student to the principles of design including rhythm, balance, proportions, and variety. Students will develop an appreciation of traditional artistic expression as well as an understanding of the role of contemporary media as a verbal and visual means of communication in today's society.
3D Computer Animation 1-2 focuses on the art of 3D computer animation. Students will learn the basics of the principles of animation, design, animation software (3D Studio Max or Softimage|XSI), modeling, storyboard development, script writing, character development, and application of these skills to be successful. Students will work in a production group to create a small-animated movie. It provides students with the opportunity to self-express and communicate their own ideas through the study of character design, backgrounds, props, digital painting, special effects, scene development, storyboard development and script writing/story writing, with the application to aesthetic theories. Students will work individually and in teams to create and plan an animated short story, through story design and implementation to a hand drawn storyboard, character development, and finally computer animation. They will analysis formally and aesthetically their group and individual work. Character development will concentrate on brining life to the character using drawings and clay model studies created by the student. Students will experience working with different mediums to create storyboards and to design their own animated scenes and short stories.