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All artwork and text is copyrighted by Frederick Gardner, unless otherwise attributed to the respective copyright owner, it is illegal to publish or print any such artwork or text without written permission by the artist or copyright owners.

Monday, December 30, 2024

CAPSTONE DEVELOPMENT - UTD AHT

 

SPRING 25 - Capstone Development TUE 1p - 3p 15 Weeks

Professor Frederick Gardner (University of Texas at Dallas)

Course Information
Course Number/Section: Class 29252 / Course 000

ATCM 4398.010.25S
Course Title: Capstone Development (Independent Study) Spring Term 25S 1/22/25 - 5/7/25 TUE 1P - 3P



Course Pre-requisites, Co-requisites, and/or Other Restrictions:
Some ability to draw traditionally on paper with pen or pencil and ability to draw digitally on Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony using a stylus and Cintiq or graphic tablet.
Drawing for Animation ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better, and Instructor consent with Portfolio Review.

Course Description:
ATCM 4398 - Capstone Development (3 semester credit hours) Capstone Development introduces students to the concept of developing a successful Senior Capstone Foundation before the normal Capstone start time. This is a personally guided/mentored story and visual development of your idea from Log Line to FInal Presentation in the form of a Printed Storybook/Portfolio or Animated Storyreel, Model Sheets, Beat Board, Color Script and Style Guide. Traditional 2D digital animation techniques using pencil/paper/paint, Photoshop CC, Harmony, stylus, WACOM Cintiq and other experimental media will be used to set a solid foundation for your project. A stong understanding of animation principles and theories will be developed before exploring more advanced topics like story script, story reel or short film with basic Character Model Packs and Style Guide. Prerequisite: ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better.

Student Learning Objectives/Outcomes:
Students will experience a professional studio environment, using the current software, tools and techniques to develop the story and development of characters, props, environments and World Building from traditional pencil thumbnail sketch through to rough Story Reel or Short Animated Film (Digital Animation or Traditional). Story Structure, Character Development, Shape Language and Color Theory will be studied and referenced as foundational skills are demonstrated in a studio setting in preparation for your Senior Thesis/Capstone Presentation.

Your Senior Capstone Project is an opportunity to show your skill level and expertise developed over years in a University setting. This is a serious presentation and could afford you the ability to land a job at a top Animation, Visual Effects or Game Studio in the Entertainment Industry or enter your short animated film in festivals worldwide. Please use this valuable time to your advantage.

Meeting Times are fluid and may be rescheduled if needed. Notes may be given online and the discussion will continue throughout the week on Teams (online/phone app). It is your responsibility to take detailed notes everyday. 



Required Textbooks and Materials:
The Animators Survival Kit (ISBN  978-0571238347) by Richard Williams (2012)

Required Materials:
Computer (MAC or PC) w/ Webcam, Microphone 
Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony
Stylus & Tablet or WACOM Cintiq
Portable Drive or USB Drive
Moleskin Sketchbook (Unruled)
Fine Point (or Extra Fine Point) Black Sharpie
Prismacolor Verithin & Prismacolor Pencils in Indigo Blue, Sepia or Black w/ Pencil Sharpener
Kneaded Eraser
Smartphone w/ Camera
Microsoft Teams software (for phone & computer)
** You are REQUIRED to use the PC, Cintiq and Software provided in the classroom

Suggested Course Materials:
The Illusion of Life (ISBN 0786860707) by Frank Thomas & Ollie Johnston (1995)
The Nobel Approach (ISBN 1452102945) by Tod Polson (2013)
Drawn to Life (ISBN 978-1032104416) by Walt Stanchfield (2023)

Suggested Course Films:
Steamboat Willie (1928) Walt Disney
What’s Opera Doc? (1957) Warner Bros
A Bear For Punishment (1951) Warner Bros
Robin Hood Daffy (1958) Warner Bros
Sleeping Beauty (1959) Walt Disney
Muybridge Motion Studies (1884) Pennsylvania University
Get A Horse! (2013) Walt Disney
Mickey Mouse Series (2013-2018) Walt Disney
Primal (2019) Cartoon Network
Wall-E (2008) Pixar
Up! (2009) Pixar
Frozen (2013) Walt Disney


15 WEEK LECTURE OUTLINE (Lecture Topics may change at any time):

- LOG LINE - Foundations of Animation/Bouncing Ball

- MAIN CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT - Character Model Sheet/50 Circles

- HERO'S FAMILY/PROTAGONISTS - Design Character Turn/Size Comparison

- VILLAIN/ANTAGONISTS - Pose to Pose Animation Ball, Rolling Coin, Timing Brackets

- WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN & WHY? - Hammer Strike, Film Personal Walk Cycle, Timing, Muybridge Walk Cycles

- LOCATION SCOUTING/GENRE - Animate Character Turn in PS/Harmony

- CHARACTER SIZE COMP - Character Walk (Single & Double Bounce), Western & Japanese Walk, Timing, EX Sheets

- LOCATION REFERENCE STUDIES - Animate Character Run, Jump & Land, Stagger, Anticipation, Overlap

- SHAPE LANGUAGE/COLOR THEORY - Animate Various Expressions, Acting, Turn

- HERO'S HOUSE/WORLD - Dialogue Tracks, Music & Timing, Phonemes, Stylized Mouth Shapes, Whistle

- VILLAIN'S LAIR/WORLD, GOOD vs EVIL - Straight Ahead FX Animation: Fire, Electricity, Water, Smoke

- STORY BEATS/COLOR THEORY - Create Depth with 3 Planes, Ratio, OLs, ULs, OL/ULs & Pan BGs

- STORY EDIT/DEVELOP THEME/MEANING - Characters Holding Each Other/Fighting, Multi Interaction, BG Interaction (Props)

- LOCATION DEVELOPMENT/MAP/INTERIORS - Muybridge Animal Motion, 4 Legs, Fins, Wings and No Legs

- LOGO & POSTER - Final Pitch of Animation Portfolio to Jury Final Grade, Portfolio
Assessment, Assemble a Portfolio Reel, Online Presence

- ADVERTISING/MARKETING - Final Pitch Cards, Posters, Displays to Promote Short Concept Possibilities

- PRESENTATION BOOK/REEL/WEBSITE- Final Pitch of Animation Portfolio to Jury Final Grade, Portfolio Assessment, Assemble a Portfolio Reel, Online Presence, Children's Book, Art of Sketchbook

LIFE DRAWING, GESTURE & PLEIN AIR SKETCHING:

Life Drawing is available on Wednesdays in the Life Drawing Studio (4th Floor) 10-1115a at Standing Easels based on Availability. Live Model provided. Bring Newsprint (18x24") & Vine or Willow Charcoal w/ Chamois.


Gesture Sketching is always available at the Student Union Mon - Fri. Take advantage of the students lounging in the area and try capturing 2 or more students, sharing the same space. Bring Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie and 20% Gray Marker (Tombow Brushpen Cool or Warm Gray 2).

 


 



Plein Air Sketching is offered several times a semester at the Texas State Fair, Tiger Refuge, Dallas Arboretum or Zoo. At these locations, you will be given the opportunity to Gesture Sketch animals in a semi-natural environment and study their motion and biomechanics. Schedule to be announced in the first weeks of the semester. Gesture Sketching done in Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie, 20% Gray Marker or pencil.







ANIMATION REFERENCE -

Children's Books, Lore & Legends, Historical Reference, Parables & Poetry, Music & Jokes can all serve as inspiration for your Capstone Concept. I highly recommend that if you are signed up for a Travel Abroad Course over the Summer, you use that Cultural Exploration as an ingredient to creating the foundation for your capstone. Avoid copying or being influenced by current or recent Pop Culture references, films, games or music. You can add a small bit of that at the end if needed. Base your initial concept on something familiar or personal in some way.

Friday, December 27, 2024

LIFE DRAWING UTD AHT

 

SPRING 25 - Life Drawing for Animation/Plein Air Class 

Life Drawing - WED 10a - 1115A/ Plein AIr - FRI 1P - 215P 15 Weeks (Twice a week)

Professor Frederick Gardner
(University of Texas at Dallas)

Course Information
Course Number/Section: Class 28219 / Course
ANGM 3321.001.25S


Course Title: Life Drawing/Plein AIr Spring Term 25S 1/22/25 - 5/7/25 WED/FRI



 
 

 


Course Pre-requisites, Co-requisites, and/or Other Restrictions:
Some ability to draw traditionally on paper with pen, marker, pencil, charcoal, chamois and sanguine. The computer is only used in this class to receive notes, clean up drawings in Photoshop CC and upload class assignments.
Drawing for Animation ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better, and Instructor consent with Portfolio Review is required to take this course.

Course Description:
ANGM 3321 - Life Drawing/Plein AIr (3 semester credit hours) Life Drawing introduces the basic skills of figure construction, form, and basic anatomy with an
emphasis on gesture drawing and capturing dynamic poses for animation. Drapery and fabrics will also be explored through the drawing of the costumed figure. Dynamic posing, gesture and animals in various timed sessions will be explored in multiple mediums,
(both traditional and digital.) Prerequisite: ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better.Department consent required.


Student Learning Objectives/Outcomes:
Students will experience a professional environment, using traditional media, tools and
techniques to develop anatomically accurate poses of the human figure, animals and trees in thumbnail and rough sketches using charcoal, ink, marker and pastel on newsprint, cardboard and sketchbook paper. 

Live model, natural tree and cadaver reference will be used for timed animation poses,
gestures, surface lighting studies. Anatomy will be studied and referenced as foundational
drawing skills are demonstrated in a studio and outdoor setting. Notes may be given online and the discussion will continue throughout the week on Teams (online/phone app). It is your responsibility to take detailed notes everyday. 



Required Textbooks and Materials:
- Bridgman’s Complete Guide to Drawing from Life (ISBN 978–0806930152) by George Bridgeman (2001)


Required Materials:
Computer (MAC or PC) w/ Webcam, Microphone 
Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony
Stylus & Tablet or WACOM Cintiq
Portable Drive or USB Drive
Moleskin Sketchbook (Unruled)
Fine Point (or Extra Fine Point) Black Sharpie
Prismacolor Verithin & Prismacolor Pencils in Indigo Blue, Sepia or Black w/ Pencil Sharpener
Kneaded Eraser
Smartphone w/ Camera
Microsoft Teams software (for phone & computer)
** You are REQUIRED to use the Teams Software for Class Assignments and Schedule Updates.

Suggested Course Materials:
Drawing the Head & Hands (ISBN 978-0857680976) by Andrew Loomis (1943)
Bridgman's Complete Guide to Drawing From Life (ISBN 978-1454926535) by George Bridgman (2001)
Drawing the Head & FIgure - (ISBN 
978-0399507915) by Jack Hamm (1982)
Dynamic Anatomy (ISBN 978–0823015528) by Byrne Hogarth (2003)
Drawn To Life (ISBN 978–0-240-81096-6) by Walt Stanchfield (2009)



Suggested Course Films:
Fantasia (1940) Walt Disney
Sleeping Beauty (1959) Walt Disney
Exposing Muybridge (2022) Gravitas Ventures
Muybridge Motion Studies
(1884) Pennsylvania University
Primal (2019) Cartoon Network


15 WEEK LECTURE OUTLINE (Lecture Topics may change at any time):

- INTRODUCTION TO LIFE DRAWING/PLEIN AIR - Syllabus, Class Structure, Drawing the Model, Line of Action, Drawing Trees Outside

- CHARCOAL DRAWING/GESTURE - Developing Gesture Drawing Skills (.30sec - 1:00min), Charcoal & Chamois, Plein AIr - Pen & Marker in Moleskin Sketchbook (Outside 2-5:00 min)

- DRAWING THE SKELETON - Proportions, Thumbnail Sketching, Simple Shapes, Canopies

- TONE STUDY - Lighting Direction, Form & Cast Shadow (1:00 - 2:00 min), Tree Roots

- CONTOUR DRAWING - Different Styles of Drawing, Tree Bark & Leaves

- PROPS & DRAPERY - Explore Various Props (in Scale) & Define Cloth Drapery Over Objects & Human Figure. Tree Cluster Studies

- HEAD TURNS/FACIAL EXPRESSIONS/SKULL- Turn & Articulation for Posing, Mouth/Eye Shapes, Hair Detail, Skull Detail, Plant Details

- HUMAN FIGURE DISTORTION/CARICATURE - Age Differences, Posture, Masculine v Feminine Shapes, Design Character Aging

- CHARACTER PROPS/HANDS & FEET - Mechanics of Hands & Feet/Action Poses, Develop Model Sheet Callouts for Hands & Feet, Props

- HAIR, HATS & SURFACING,
RUN/WALK - Drawing Texture, Run/Walk Cycles, Develop Hair Models & Texture Callouts, Props

- CHARACTERS & VEHICLES w/ SCALE - Draw Details and Silhouette Studies of Steam Locomotive, Indicate Accurate Scale

- ANIMAL POSES, ANATOMY & SCALE - Animal Differences in Design, Draw Animals in Zoo, Arboretum, Aquarium, State Fair and/or Tiger Sanctuary.

- ANIMAL ANATOMY & SKELETON - Draw Dog Anatomy and Draw Dog Skeleton Anatomy on Tracing Paper Overlay with 10 Major Bones Defined.

- FINAL PRESENTATION - Final Presentation of Plein Air Sketchbook, Extra Credit Sketchbook, Life Drawing Portfolio (From Previous 14 Weeks) and 2 Life Drawing Poses (8:00 min ea) with Skeleton Anatomy Drawin in Detail on Tracing Paper on Top of Each Pose. 10 Major Bones need to be Identified with Skeleton Layer (4:00 min) for a Total 12:00 min Pose for each. Life Drawing Portfolio to presented to Jury Class for Jury Score. Final Grade based on Portfolio Assessment, Sketchbook Reviews, Attendance and Professional Presentation.

LIFE DRAWING, GESTURE & PLEIN AIR SKETCHING:

Life Drawing is available every semester, on Wednesdays in the Life Drawing Studio (4th Floor), 10-1115a at Standing Easels based on Availability. Live Model provided. Bring Newsprint (18x24") & Vine or Willow Charcoal w/ Chamois.


Gesture Sketching is always available at the Student Union Mon - Fri. Take advantage of the students lounging in the area and try capturing 2 or more students, sharing the same space. Bring Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie and 20% Gray Marker (Tombow Brushpen Cool or Warm Gray 2).

 


 



Plein Air Sketching is offered several times a semester at the Texas State Fair, Tiger Refuge, Dallas Arboretum or Zoo. At these locations, you will be given the opportunity to Gesture Sketch animals in a semi-natural environment and study their motion and biomechanics. Schedule to be announced in the first weeks of the semester. Gesture Sketching done in Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie, 20% Gray Marker or pencil.







LIFE DRAWING FILM REFERENCE -


"Fantasia" (Walt Disney) 1940




"Primal" (Cartoon Network) 2019






"Sleeping Beauty" (Walt Disney) 1958



"Exposing Muybridge" (Warner Bros) 2022








Life Drawing/Plein AIr Poster Annotation -Life Drawings & Designs by Frederick Gardner

 - Upper Left Image - "Knotty Oak & Tall Pine" from "Jack & Ben" (Laika Studios) 2009

- Upper Middle Image - "African Art" Museum Studies from DMA (Dallas Museum of Art) 2024

- Upper Right Image - "Oak Tree Roots" from "Jack & Ben" (Laika Studios) 2009

- Bottom Left Image - "Sketching on the Train" from "UTD FIeld Trip" (Texas State Fair) 2024

- Bottom Middle Left Image - "Roman Art" from DMA (Dallas Museum of Art) 2024

- Middle Images - "Skull & Hand Details" from "Life Drawing" (UT Dallas) 2024

- Bottom Right Image - "African Art" from DMA (Dallas Museum of Art) 2024




Thursday, December 26, 2024

CHARACTER DESIGN - UTD AHT

 

SPRING 25 - Character Design Class TUE 10a - 1245p 15 Weeks

Professor Frederick Gardner
(University of Texas at Dallas)

Course Information
Course Number/Section: Class 28216 / Course
ANGM 3304.001.25S


Course Title: Character Design Spring Term 25S 1/21/25 - 5/6/25 TUE 10A - 1245P





 

 


 

Course Pre-requisites, Co-requisites, and/or Other Restrictions:
Some ability to draw traditionally on paper with pen or pencil and ability to draw digitally on Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony using a stylus and Cintiq or graphic tablet.
Drawing for Animation ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better, and Instructor consent with Portfolio Review.

Course Description:
ANGM 3304 - Character Design for Animation (3 semester credit hours) designing characters (human & animal, costumes & props), constructing turns, size comps and developing shape language and model sheets from story outlines and scripts for Visual Development and Production. This Course offers a further exploration of ideas and principles utilized in the animation process. Sections may be devoted to a single aspect of animation or to a variety of subjects in the field. May be repeated for credit as topics vary (6 semester credit hours maximum). Department consent required.


Student Learning Objectives/Outcomes:
Students will experience a professional studio environment, using the current software, tools and techniques to develop the movement of characters, props and environments from traditional pencil thumbnail through to final digital animation. Live action and animation movement mechanics will be studied and referenced as foundational skills are demonstrated in a studio setting. Notes may be given online and the discussion will continue throughout the week on Teams (online/phone app). It is your responsibility to take detailed notes everyday. 



Required Textbooks and Materials:
The Nobel Approach (ISBN 1452102945) by Tod Polson


Required Materials:
Computer (MAC or PC) w/ Webcam, Microphone 
Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony
Stylus & Tablet or WACOM Cintiq
Portable Drive or USB Drive
Moleskin Sketchbook (Unruled)
Fine Point (or Extra Fine Point) Black Sharpie
Prismacolor Verithin & Prismacolor Pencils in Indigo Blue, Sepia or Black w/ Pencil Sharpener
Kneaded Eraser
Smartphone w/ Camera
Microsoft Teams software (for phone & computer)
** You are REQUIRED to use the PC, Cintiq and Software provided in the classroom

Suggested Course Materials:
The Illusion of Life (ISBN 0786860707) by Frank Thomas & Ollie Johnston
Drawing Book of Faces (ISBN 1-4177-3399-3) by Ed Emberley
100 Tuesday Tips - by Griz and Norm (ISBN 978-0990875000)


Suggested Course Films:
Steamboat Willie (1928) Walt Disney
What’s Opera Doc? (1957) Warner Bros
A Bear For Punishment (1951) Warner Bros
Robin Hood Daffy (1958) Warner Bros
Sleeping Beauty (1959) Walt Disney
Muybridge Motion Studies (1884) Pennsylvania University
Get A Horse! (2013) Walt Disney
Mickey Mouse Series (2013-2018) Walt Disney
Primal (2019) Cartoon Network
Wall-E (2008) Pixar
Up! (2009) Pixar
Frozen (2013) Walt Disney


15 WEEK LECTURE OUTLINE (Lecture Topics may change at any time):

- SHAPE LANGUAGE -Syllabus, Class Structure, Circle, Square, Triangle/Life Drawing

- CHARACTER IN DESIGN & SHAPE - Developing Character, Basics of Composition

- CHARACTER MODEL DEVELOPMENT - Size Comp, Thumbnail Sketching, Self Portrait

- CARICATURE - Caricature v Realism, Character Props, Costume Changes

- SIZE COMP, PERSPECTIVE, MEANING OF COLOR -Intro to Color, Size Comp, Character Perspective, Size Comp of Props w/Characters

- STYLE & GENRE - Character Details, Turning Objects, Genre Shape Exploration, Cast Line Up

- HEAD TURNS/FACIAL EXPRESSIONS/SKULL- Turn & Articulation for Posing, Mouth/Eye Shapes, Character Detail, Model Sheets, Phonemes

- CHARACTER BUILDING & AGE DESIGN - Age Differences, Posture, Masculine v Feminine Shapes, Design Character Aging (Up!)

- CHARACTER PROPS/HANDS & FEET - Mechanics of Hands & Feet/Action Poses, Develop Model Sheet Callouts for Hands & Feet, Props

- HAIR, HATS & SURFACING,
RUN/WALK - Drawing Texture, Run/Walk Cycles, Develop Hair Models & Texture Callouts, Props

- VILLAINS - Good Shapes v Bad Shapes, Design Cast of Villains, Special FX, Weapons

- CHARACTERS & VEHICLES OR CHAR VEHICLES - Design Vehicles for Characters/Vehicle Faces, Interior/Cutaway Design Using Thumbnails

- ANIMAL CHARACTERS & SCALE - Animal Differences/Anthropomorphic Designs, Design SM & LG Animals in Scale/Size Comp

- FANTASY CREATURES & CHARACTER MOUNTS - Non-Animal Creatures & Fantasy Designs/Complex Shapes, FINAL Character Design Models & Presentation Orientation

- FINAL PRESENTATION - Final Pitch of Character Design Portfolio to Jury Final Grade, Portfolio Assessment, Assemble a Portfolio Reel, Online Presence

LIFE DRAWING, GESTURE & PLEIN AIR SKETCHING:

Life Drawing is available on Wednesdays in the Life Drawing Studio (4th Floor) 10-1115a at Standing Easels based on Availability. Live Model provided. Bring Newsprint (18x24") & Vine or Willow Charcoal w/ Chamois.


Gesture Sketching is always available at the Student Union Mon - Fri. Take advantage of the students lounging in the area and try capturing 2 or more students, sharing the same space. Bring Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie and 20% Gray Marker (Tombow Brushpen Cool or Warm Gray 2).

 


 



Plein Air Sketching is offered several times a semester at the Texas State Fair, Tiger Refuge, Dallas Arboretum or Zoo. At these locations, you will be given the opportunity to Gesture Sketch animals in a semi-natural environment and study their motion and biomechanics. Schedule to be announced in the first weeks of the semester. Gesture Sketching done in Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie, 20% Gray Marker or pencil.







ANIMATION CHARACTER DESIGN REFERENCE -


"Steamboat Willie" (Walt Disney) 1928


"Robin Hood Daffy" (Warner Bros) 1958




"Sleeping Beauty" (Walt Disney) 1958



"DeDeuce You Say?" (Warner Bros) 1956





"Whats Opera Doc?" (Warner Bros) 1957




Character Design Poster Annotation - Character Designs by Frederick Gardner (also Tim Lamb)

 - Upper Left Image - "Mr Peanut Design & Party Attendees - v003" from "Planters Party" (Laika House Animation) 2009

- Upper Middle Left Image - "Jack" Bluebird Design from "Jack & Ben" (Laika Studios) 2008 Emmy Winner

- Upper Middle Right Image - "Viking Warrior Costume Change" from "Character Design" Lecture (Richland College) 2009 (Tim Lamb Original Character - Moby Dick)

- Upper Right Image - "Sobek Crocodile God Statues v6-9.0" from "Tutenstein" (Trilogy Entertainment) 2021

- Bottom Lower Right Image - "Toro Statue" from "The Book of Life" (Reel FX/20th Century Fox) 2013

- Bottom Middle Image - "Mondragon Statue Details" from "The Book of Life" (Reel FX/20th Century Fox) 2013

- Bottom Right Image - "Ugly Island" from "Ugly Dolls Movie" (Reel FX/STX Entertainment) 2017




BACKGROUND DESIGN - UTD AHT

 

SPRING 25 - Background Design Class THUR 10a - 1245p 15 Weeks

Professor Frederick Gardner (University of Texas at Dallas)

Course Information
Course Number/Section: Class 28217 / Course
ANGM 3314.001.25S

Course Title: Background Design 

 Spring Term 25S 1/23/25 - 5/8/25 THUR 10A - 1245P





 
 


 

Course Pre-requisites, Co-requisites, and/or Other Restrictions:
Some ability to draw traditionally on paper with pen or pencil and ability to draw digitally on Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony using a stylus and Cintiq or graphic tablet.
Drawing for Animation ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better, and Instructor consent with Portfolio Review.

Course Description:
ANGM 3314 - Background Design (3 semester credit hours) 2D Animation introduces students to traditional 2D digital animation techniques using pencil/paper, Photoshop CC, Harmony, stylus and WACOM Cintiq. A solid foundation of animation principles and theories will be built before exploring more advanced topics such as weight, physicality, emotion, fx and basic character. Prerequisite: ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better.

Student Learning Objectives/Outcomes:
Students will experience a professional studio environment, using the current software, tools and techniques to develop the movement of characters, props and environments from traditional pencil thumbnail through to final digital animation. Live action and animation movement mechanics will be studied and referenced as foundational skills are demonstrated in a studio setting. Notes may be given online and the discussion will continue throughout the week on Teams (online/phone app). It is your responsibility to take detailed notes everyday. 



Required Textbooks and Materials:
The Animators Survival Kit (ISBN  978-0571238347) by Richard Williams

Required Materials:
Computer (MAC or PC) w/ Webcam, Microphone 
Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony
Stylus & Tablet or WACOM Cintiq
Portable Drive or USB Drive
Moleskin Sketchbook (Unruled)
Fine Point (or Extra Fine Point) Black Sharpie
Prismacolor Verithin & Prismacolor Pencils in Indigo Blue, Sepia or Black w/ Pencil Sharpener
Kneaded Eraser
Smartphone w/ Camera
Microsoft Teams software (for phone & computer)
** You are REQUIRED to use the PC, Cintiq and Software provided in the classroom

Suggested Course Materials:
The Illusion of Life (ISBN 0786860707) by Frank Thomas & Ollie Johnston
The Nobel Approach (ISBN 1452102945) by Tod Polson
Drawn to Life (ISBN 978-1032104416) by Walt Stanchfield

Suggested Course Films:
Steamboat Willie (1928) Walt Disney
What’s Opera Doc? (1957) Warner Bros
A Bear For Punishment (1951) Warner Bros
Robin Hood Daffy (1958) Warner Bros
Sleeping Beauty (1959) Walt Disney
Muybridge Motion Studies (1884) Pennsylvania University
Get A Horse! (2013) Walt Disney
Mickey Mouse Series (2013-2018) Walt Disney
Primal (2019) Cartoon Network
Wall-E (2008) Pixar
Up! (2009) Pixar
Frozen (2013) Walt Disney


15 WEEK LECTURE OUTLINE (Lecture Topics may change at any time):

- SHAPE & MOTION - Foundations of Animation/Bouncing Ball

- CHARACTER IN DESIGN - Character Model Sheet/50 Circles

- CHARACTER TURN AROUND - Design Character Turn/Size Comparison

- BOUNCING BALL/ROLLING COIN - Pose to Pose Animation Ball, Rolling Coin, Timing Brackets

- SIZE COMP, WALK CYCLE, HAMMER STRIKE - Hammer Strike, Film Personal Walk Cycle, Timing, Muybridge Walk Cycles

- PS TURNTABLE, HARMONY TURNTABLE - Animate Character Turn in PS/Harmony

- WALK CYCLE, TIMING - Character Walk (Single & Double Bounce), Western & Japanese Walk, Timing, EX Sheets

- RUN CYCLE, JUMP, LAND
 (MID TERM) - Animate Character Run, Jump & Land, Stagger, Anticipation, Overlap

- ANIMATION TAKE, REACTION - Animate Various Expressions, Acting, Turn

- LIP SYNC, MUSIC BEATS, EX SHEETS - Dialogue Tracks, Music & Timing, Phonemes, Stylized Mouth Shapes, Whistle

- FX ANIMATION - Straight Ahead FX Animation: Fire, Electricity, Water, Smoke

- MULTIPLANE & PANS - Create Depth with 3 Planes, Ratio, OLs, ULs, OL/ULs & Pan BGs

- 2 CHARACTER INTERACTION - Characters Holding Each Other/Fighting, Multi Interaction, BG Interaction (Props)

- ANIMAL LOCOMOTION - Muybridge Animal Motion, 4 Legs, Fins, Wings and No Legs

- FINAL PRESENTATION - Final Pitch of Animation Portfolio to Jury Final Grade, Portfolio
Assessment, Assemble a Portfolio Reel, Online Presence

LIFE DRAWING, GESTURE & PLEIN AIR SKETCHING:

Life Drawing is available on Wednesdays in the Life Drawing Studio (4th Floor) 10-1115a at Standing Easels based on Availability. Live Model provided. Bring Newsprint (18x24") & Vine or Willow Charcoal w/ Chamois.


Gesture Sketching is always available at the Student Union Mon - Fri. Take advantage of the students lounging in the area and try capturing 2 or more students, sharing the same space. Bring Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie and 20% Gray Marker (Tombow Brushpen Cool or Warm Gray 2).

 


 



Plein Air Sketching is offered several times a semester at the Texas State Fair, Tiger Refuge, Dallas Arboretum or Zoo. At these locations, you will be given the opportunity to Gesture Sketch animals in a semi-natural environment and study their motion and biomechanics. Schedule to be announced in the first weeks of the semester. Gesture Sketching done in Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie, 20% Gray Marker or pencil.







ANIMATION REFERENCE -


"Steamboat Willie" (Walt Disney) 1928


"Robin Hood Daffy" (Warner Bros) 1958




"Sleeping Beauty" (Walt Disney) 1958



"A Bear for Punishment" (Warner Bros) 1951


"What is Motion - Eadweard Muybridge" (Cantor Arts Center) 2017


2D Animation Poster Annotation - Animation and/or Animation Layout by Frederick Gardner

 - Upper Left Image - "Teca Pyramid - Puma Golum Transformation A - v001" from "Maya and the Three" (Netflix Animation) 2019 

- Upper Middle Image - "Orchid Bay Street - Ming's Restaurant" from "The Life and Times of Juniper Lee" (Cartoon Network) 2004 Emmy Winner

- Upper Right Image - "London Graveyard - End of Path" from "Tom & Jerry Meet Sherlock Holmes" (Warner Bros Animation) 2009

- Bottom Left Image - "London Graveyard Angel w/ Diamond" from "Tom & Jerry Meet Sherlock Holmes" (Warner Bros Animation) 2009

- Bottom Upper Right Image - "Sundae Bloody Sundae" from "The Simpsons - Oh Brother Where Art Thou" Season 2 (Klasky Csupo/Fox) 1991

- Bottom Lower Right Image - "Desert Mountains (EXT) PAN" from "The Powerpuff Girls" (Cartoon Network) 2004 Emmy Winner












Tuesday, December 24, 2024

2D ANIMATION - UTD AHT

SPRING 25 - 2D Animation Class WED 1p - 345p 15 Weeks

Professor Frederick Gardner (University of Texas at Dallas)

Course Information
Course Number/Section: Class 24774 / Course 000843

ANGM 3313.001.25S
Course Title: 2D Animation Spring Term 25S 1/22/25 - 5/7/25 WED 1P - 345P





Course Pre-requisites, Co-requisites, and/or Other Restrictions:
Some ability to draw traditionally on paper with pen or pencil and ability to draw digitally on Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony using a stylus and Cintiq or graphic tablet.
Drawing for Animation ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better, and Instructor consent with Portfolio Review.

Course Description:
ANGM 3313 - 2D Animation (3 semester credit hours) 2D Animation introduces students to traditional 2D digital animation techniques using pencil/paper, Photoshop CC, Harmony, stylus and WACOM Cintiq. A solid foundation of animation principles and theories will be built before exploring more advanced topics such as weight, physicality, emotion, fx and basic character. Prerequisite: ANGM 2309 with a grade of B or better.

Student Learning Objectives/Outcomes:
Students will experience a professional studio environment, using the current software, tools and techniques to develop the movement of characters, props and environments from traditional pencil thumbnail through to final digital animation. Live action and animation movement mechanics will be studied and referenced as foundational skills are demonstrated in a studio setting. Notes may be given online and the discussion will continue throughout the week on Teams (online/phone app). It is your responsibility to take detailed notes everyday. 



Required Textbooks and Materials:
The Animators Survival Kit (ISBN  978-0571238347) by Richard Williams (2012)

Required Materials:
Computer (MAC or PC) w/ Webcam, Microphone 
Photoshop CC & Toon Boom Harmony
Stylus & Tablet or WACOM Cintiq
Portable Drive or USB Drive
Moleskin Sketchbook (Unruled)
Fine Point (or Extra Fine Point) Black Sharpie
Prismacolor Verithin & Prismacolor Pencils in Indigo Blue, Sepia or Black w/ Pencil Sharpener
Kneaded Eraser
Smartphone w/ Camera
Microsoft Teams software (for phone & computer)
** You are REQUIRED to use the PC, Cintiq and Software provided in the classroom

Suggested Course Materials:
The Illusion of Life (ISBN 0786860707) by Frank Thomas & Ollie Johnston (1995)
The Nobel Approach (ISBN 1452102945) by Tod Polson (2013)
Drawn to Life (ISBN 978-1032104416) by Walt Stanchfield (2023)

Suggested Course Films:
Steamboat Willie (1928) Walt Disney
What’s Opera Doc? (1957) Warner Bros
A Bear For Punishment (1951) Warner Bros
Robin Hood Daffy (1958) Warner Bros
Sleeping Beauty (1959) Walt Disney
Muybridge Motion Studies (1884) Pennsylvania University
Get A Horse! (2013) Walt Disney
Mickey Mouse Series (2013-2018) Walt Disney
Primal (2019) Cartoon Network
Wall-E (2008) Pixar
Up! (2009) Pixar
Frozen (2013) Walt Disney


15 WEEK LECTURE OUTLINE (Lecture Topics may change at any time):

- SHAPE & MOTION - Foundations of Animation/Bouncing Ball

- CHARACTER IN DESIGN - Character Model Sheet/50 Circles

- CHARACTER TURN AROUND - Design Character Turn/Size Comparison

- BOUNCING BALL/ROLLING COIN - Pose to Pose Animation Ball, Rolling Coin, Timing Brackets

- SIZE COMP, WALK CYCLE, HAMMER STRIKE - Hammer Strike, Film Personal Walk Cycle, Timing, Muybridge Walk Cycles

- PS TURNTABLE, HARMONY TURNTABLE - Animate Character Turn in PS/Harmony

- WALK CYCLE, TIMING - Character Walk (Single & Double Bounce), Western & Japanese Walk, Timing, EX Sheets

- RUN CYCLE, JUMP, LAND
 (MID TERM) - Animate Character Run, Jump & Land, Stagger, Anticipation, Overlap

- ANIMATION TAKE, REACTION - Animate Various Expressions, Acting, Turn

- LIP SYNC, MUSIC BEATS, EX SHEETS - Dialogue Tracks, Music & Timing, Phonemes, Stylized Mouth Shapes, Whistle

- FX ANIMATION - Straight Ahead FX Animation: Fire, Electricity, Water, Smoke

- MULTIPLANE & PANS - Create Depth with 3 Planes, Ratio, OLs, ULs, OL/ULs & Pan BGs

- 2 CHARACTER INTERACTION - Characters Holding Each Other/Fighting, Multi Interaction, BG Interaction (Props)

- ANIMAL LOCOMOTION - Muybridge Animal Motion, 4 Legs, Fins, Wings and No Legs

- FINAL PRESENTATION - Final Pitch of Animation Portfolio to Jury Final Grade, Portfolio
Assessment, Assemble a Portfolio Reel, Online Presence

LIFE DRAWING, GESTURE & PLEIN AIR SKETCHING:

Life Drawing is available on Wednesdays in the Life Drawing Studio (4th Floor) 10-1115a at Standing Easels based on Availability. Live Model provided. Bring Newsprint (18x24") & Vine or Willow Charcoal w/ Chamois.


Gesture Sketching is always available at the Student Union Mon - Fri. Take advantage of the students lounging in the area and try capturing 2 or more students, sharing the same space. Bring Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie and 20% Gray Marker (Tombow Brushpen Cool or Warm Gray 2).

 


 



Plein Air Sketching is offered several times a semester at the Texas State Fair, Tiger Refuge, Dallas Arboretum or Zoo. At these locations, you will be given the opportunity to Gesture Sketch animals in a semi-natural environment and study their motion and biomechanics. Schedule to be announced in the first weeks of the semester. Gesture Sketching done in Moleskin Sketchbook, Ultra Fine Point Sharpie, 20% Gray Marker or pencil.







ANIMATION REFERENCE -


"Steamboat Willie" (Walt Disney) 1928


"Robin Hood Daffy" (Warner Bros) 1958




"Sleeping Beauty" (Walt Disney) 1958



"A Bear for Punishment" (Warner Bros) 1951


"What is Motion - Eadweard Muybridge" (Cantor Arts Center) 2017


2D Animation Poster Annotation - Animation and/or Animation Layout by Frederick Gardner

 - Upper Left Image - "Teca Pyramid - Puma Golum Transformation A - v001" from "Maya and the Three" (Netflix Animation) 2019 

- Upper Middle Image - "Orchid Bay Street - Ming's Restaurant" from "The Life and Times of Juniper Lee" (Cartoon Network) 2004 Emmy Winner

- Upper Right Image - "London Graveyard - End of Path" from "Tom & Jerry Meet Sherlock Holmes" (Warner Bros Animation) 2009

- Bottom Left Image - "London Graveyard Angel w/ Diamond" from "Tom & Jerry Meet Sherlock Holmes" (Warner Bros Animation) 2009

- Bottom Upper Right Image - "Sundae Bloody Sundae" from "The Simpsons - Oh Brother Where Art Thou" Season 2 (Klasky Csupo/Fox) 1991

- Bottom Lower Right Image - "Desert Mountains (EXT) PAN" from "The Powerpuff Girls" (Cartoon Network) 2004 Emmy Winner


Thursday, September 19, 2024

The Simpsons Wikipedia - Frederick Gardner (Animator)

 

 My first job in animation was on The Simpsons. I was hired when Producers of the show walked by my desk at Cal Arts in my freshman year and left me a note, offering me to test to take as Animator. The test was to turn Skinner's Mom. I passed the test, was hired as a Full Animator (not Assistant) and never finished my second year at CalArts. Here is a link to my page in The Simpsons Wikipedia. It is not 100% accurate, there are many other contributions I made to The Simpsons while I worked for 20th Century Fox and Klasky Csupo. I will try and update this information in the near future. Some of the additional Simpsons work I did was publicity art/press photos for the Main Characters, Storyboard, Prop and Background Design for some episodes, completely animated and designed my own Itchy & Scratchy cartoon (solo), "Sundae Bloody Sunday", Character Design, Animator on several Butterfinger commercials, Animator on the second version of the Main Title for The Simpsons.

Sundae Bloody Sundae (YouTube):
https://youtu.be/AzPpkEJBJhM?si=-otsj1n9wvCBIb6R




NOTE: I (and the entire crew) won my first Emmy (certificate) for Best Animated Series working on The Simpsons.

The Simpsons Wikipedia link is here:

https://simpsonswiki.com/wiki/Frederick_J._Gardner_III

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

NEW Portfolio web sight!


"Tesla" Copter from Turkeys


I have launched a NEW portfolio web sight containing some of my designs from the past 12 years. You can see the artwork at: IndigoBluePencil.com. 

Indigo Blue Pencil

Sunday, September 27, 2015

La Muerte's Castle

La Muerte's Castle for The Book of Life

Inspired by Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. I also used reference from photos from Sandra and Jorge Gutierrez's romantic trip to Spain and other designs from Gaudi. The challenge was to keep the Gaudi asthetic in the shape language of the Land of the Dead (later called the Land of the Remembered). 


Gaudi Cathedral Ceiling (Detail)

Gaudi - La Sagrada Familia Cathedral


The entryway to La Muerte's castle went through several design iterations, from a large skull whose mouth opens for entry to a giant sacred heart/tree of life with a lego-like doorway.













I added skulls, mustaches, antlers and hearts in varying scales to play up the enormity of the place. 







The final version of La Muerte's Castle Doorway came about by trying to get the design to fit in the HD 1:1.78 aspect ratio. A majority of the drawing was manipulated in Photoshop using the transform tool and then redrawn. 





La Muerte's Castle Entryway (Final)


In designing the interiors, I noticed shapes that reminded me of "The Lorax" from Dr Seuss. I embraced that and pushed the Seuss quality to keep things magical, light and yet, mysterious. La Muerte is a goddess and her power should be felt in the majesty of the structure. Jorge wanted the interiors to feel open and massive. 

Tree of Life - G Klimpt





















The Gaudi cathedral interiors are the same way. Many of the pillars in the cathedral are designed as huge trees, so I kept that idea and the "swirl" design from the Gustav Klimpt "Tree of Life" (La Muerte's castle exterior). The floating pillars inside the castle now look like a forest with a canopy of prayer flags above. 

La Muerte's Castle Walkway