The first
module of my final year is specialist study one. This module is designed so
that I can choose the area of animation in which I want to further my knowledge
and develop my skills as an animator. As I have previously written, I want to
go into 3D animation, but I have now narrowed down the particular field within
3D animation I want to pursue, which is character animation. I have every
intention of continuing my learning in the other fields of 3D e.g.
modelling, rendering and rigging but for me, the key area of my study now and
for the final year is character animation.
Character animation is something I have always loved, regardless of the form of
3D or otherwise e.g. 2D or stop motion. I have always enjoyed seeing good
characters that connect with the viewer, often making them ‘feel’ for them and engaging
with them emotionally, thus what could be termed as ‘investing’ in them. The ‘Toy
Story’ films are the first films that come to mind of doing this; they are a
good example of capturing the audience through the characters - not wanting to
let go. Audiences are still eager to know what is happening in the lives of
Woody and other characters, thus Pixar are creating new short features and a
rumoured ‘Toy Story 4’ is in the works (which is probably going to happen). This
is perhaps best described as manipulation; getting the viewer to simplify or
feel a particular emotion with the character. This is something that goes deep
down into the psyche of humans; to ‘root’ for the underdog or the demise of the
malevolent villain. Upon reflection, this is something I want to achieve with
my characters and partly why I have such a passion for character animation.
The Aim
The aim
for me in this module is to create a believable character performance
animation, focusing on being 'believable'. I want to create a short animation
that entertains the audience and one that they believe in. I have two ideas of
how I would like to achieve this. The first is by entering into 11 second club.
They produce a sound clip, fully rigged characters and an audience to critique
it. The second is creating a short silent animation piece with more emphasis on
the performance of the character and making him feel real. My recent watching
of Buster Keaton’s short films has inspired this idea. In both cases, my
workflow and the information that follows will stay the same.
My Learning Outcomes
- To develop and
enhance my knowledge of character performance in animation and what makes
a character believable.
- To critique and analyse
techniques used in performance.
- To demonstrate an
understanding of the principles of animation and application of them in 3D
character animation.
- To complete tasks
according to a clear production pipeline, including the use of tests and
procedures, resulting in improvement and development in animation.
Reflection and Action Plans
I want to
increase my knowledge of character performance and animation and thus intend to
complete a number of different micro projects, including the basic walk cycle
test to more challenging facial expression tests. I also see this as a chance
to further develop my character design work and therefore, will undertake some
more life drawing classes. I will also be creating storyboards and thumbnails.
Personal Aim
I am
hoping this project and the tasks I complete will in turn, greatly benefit me
as an animator and widen my knowledge of the field. I believe this will be
achieved and enable me to produce a substantial piece of work that will be
compiled into a character animation show reel.
Resources
My main books resources areas followed:
- The animator's survival kit
- How to cheat in's Maya 2012
- Acting for Animators
- Animated Performance
