Game Design

BMA: Intro to 3D Animation

Course No. BMA346.1  Credits: 3
Faculty Amanda Almon

This course serves as an introductory platform to investigate and discover object, environment, human and natural science 3D animation to create a narrative with goals to communicate a message and/or educate and instruct the viewer. The student will use the concept of narrative to tell animated short stories of the body, environment and/or natural science through the medium of 3D digital animation software. Within the course, strong conceptual skills are emphasized and developed through professional production techniques, workflow and time-based linear media. Successful animation breathes life into motion with clear communication of thought, emotion, narrative or experience. Any moving object is a ÒcharacterÓ in film or animation. We will hold regular discussions and workshops on how the dialogue of an otherwise stagnant object changes and evolves when put to motion. Methods of instruction will consist of lectures, demonstrations, art & scientific research, studio assignments, in-class lab time, and group critiques. The principles of 3D space and motion/timing will be used as the foundation for understanding how to communicate a message through animation. Learning the ideas of simplistic object, environment and body motion accuracy/timing will be taught in 3D and students will be expected to create simple to complex animations (based on level and individual progress.) The computer will be explored like other art media and will serve as a tool for creation.