The Campbell River Arts Council is presenting a series of one-day animation workshops for youth.
If your child is between the ages of 8 and 12 years old and enjoys being creative using a laptop computer, this is a workshop they will enjoy. Two workshops will be held: Level One will take place on Saturday, March 26, from 1-4 p.m.; Level Two will take place on Sunday, March 27, from 1-4 p.m.
Taught by animation instructor, Fred Jiles MSC, this series of workshops has the endorsement of many staff and administrators within Campbell River elementary schools. Jiles, an educator from Washington State, USA, has been teaching news reporting and animation production skills to youth since 1983.
“This is a media project I really enjoy,” says Jiles. “Observing these young people being entertained as they develop critical thinking skills, using today’s technology and a medium they engage with is exciting. I chuckle to myself as I watch them develop a story concept into a full-fledged finished animation.”
In his Level One Workshop, youth start by scripting out a story idea. Next, students create two-dimensional drawings to tell their story, add an audio track, special effects and their first animation is finished. These test animations usually run from 30 seconds to two minutes depending on storyline and plot.
The Level Two Workshop allows young animators to advance to a three-dimensional medium.
“Clay seems to be the most popular material, but Legos work also. I have seen some very creative characters created by some very talented young people,” Jiles says. “I am pleased to be able to provide all of the computers, software, and cameras needed as part of this animation workshop.”
The cost is $40 per student per level. To insure that all participants involved in the program will have a sufficient opportunity to explore their animation skills, only 12 young people will be allowed to enroll per workshop. Students work in production teams of two youth per laptop computer. Parents are responsible for transportation to and from the Arts Council (currently 2111 South Island Highway in Willow Point) and a signed permission slip. Prompt pick-up at the end of each workshop will be much appreciated. To register, call the Arts Council at 923-0213.
