This evening course is designed to provide aspiring animators with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to create an animation portfolio. The course is structured as a hands-on workshop format: you will develop your own animation concept as a “pitch” portfolio ( for TV, film or web) with guidance and feedback from teachers and students alike.
By the end of the 8 week course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to pursue a career or educational opportunities in areas such as film FX, television, advertising, gaming, or independent animation.

Course Content

Week 1: Introduction to Animation

• Overview of animation principles and techniques
• Exploring different animation styles and genres

Week  2: Animation Fundamentals: Bouncing Ball

• Principles of motion and movement
• Animation Project: Bouncing Ball (digital or flip-book)

Week 3: Portfolio Planning

• Defining your animation portfolio goals
• What makes an effective portfolio?                                                              
• Story structures in animation & film

Week 4: Story & Concept Development

• Developing an animation project or story (the seed of an idea)
• Scripting basics

Week 5: Pitch Day

• Individual concept pitch
• Individual concept feedback

Week 6: Character Development Strategies

• Creating compelling characters
• Basics of character design and development
• Creating appealing backgrounds and environments

Week 7: Visual Design and Backgrounds

• Colour theory and tone
• Translation from script to storyboard

Week 8: Storyboarding / Portfolio in Process

• Fundamentals of visual storytelling and composition
• Ongoing Portfolio feedback
• Strategies for online/offline promotion
• Final portfolio presentation and feedback session
• Exploring career opportunities and further education in animation

Course Dates

Tuesday Evenings from 3rd October to 28th November (No class on Tue 31st Oct) (8 Weeks) 6:30-9pm (20 Hours)

Course Costs

€150

What to Bring

Participants on this course should have many of their own Art Supplies. A comprehensive list can be found by clicking here.