Build a stronger portfolio
PLEASE NOTE: An application is required for acceptance into this course.
This mentorship will mimic the building blocks used in a feature film production environment to develop professional and appealing character designs using Aesop's Fables
NOTE: Course outline for each instructor may be different; for specific outline information, please select the instructor and click on “Request Syllabus” below.
PLEASE NOTE: An application is required for this course. The first round of applicants will be notified of application status no later than 1 month prior to the start of term. Applications received after that time will be reviewed in the order they are received and notification for those can be expected before the term starts. If you have any questions please reach out to registration@cgmasteracademy.com
Registration Now Open
Only 3 seats left
Registration Period
Jan 31, 2024 -
Apr 22, 2024
Course Start
Apr 22, 2024
Course Format
Live group sessions (sessions are recorded and available afterwards)
Skills Level
Intermediate- Advanced
Duration
8 weeks
Q&A
Live (sessions are recorded and available afterwards)
Feedback
Individual recordings
Lecture Type
Live group sessions (sessions are recorded and available afterwards)
Assignment
Ongoing work each week (Expect to spend 8-10 hrs/wk)
PREREQUISITES
A basic understanding of design principles, a sharp eye towards observation and detail, and a willingness to jump out of your comfort zone
MATERIALS
Photoshop and a drawing tablet are preferred but pencil, pen and markers on paper are ok as well.
The more you know, the better.
Week #1
Welcome & Introductions - The Sandbox
Gaining observational skills in your reference gathering and taking your main characters for a test drive utilizing principles of design to push for appeal.
Week #2
Drawn to Story
Interactive moments between characters allows the audience to find the relatability of the person we are following in the story. When we showcase the harmony and conflict of a relationship we are capturing interest in those characters.
Week #3
The Superman Effect
A hero pose serves multiple purposes. Clarity in forms for a modeler, beauty for pitching, and confidence in direction.
Week #4
The Dynamic Lineup
Placing your main characters around secondary characters shows a level of confidence in world building that an Art Director or Production Designer will appreciate.
Week #5
Line of Action
Pushing for a strong line of action in forms and composition is a crucial step in appeal. Finding rhythm in your characters strengthens the principles of design in your work.
Week #6
Expressions
We find the humanity of the characters we design by focusing on clear and playful expressions. Finding unique emotions can give variety and interest to your characters.
Week #7
The Style Guide
Creating a style guide for production places each team at ease. Your confident answers in a style guide allow the visual development, modeling and animation departments to have a clear artistic vision. As an artist, you have that opportunity to aid the director, production designer, and art director by proposing a set of artistic rules that the team can live by.
Week #8
Presentations & The Final 10%
Your technique in how you draw details, add texture and how you lay down lines on a page is a vital step in allowing audiences to find your work appealing and engaging. Challenging the limits of your draftsmenship can open up new ways of how you work. Your creative toolbelt expands as you exercise patience in looking over the details of your designs.
STUDENT GALLERY
Prepare to meet your master.
LECTURES BY
Ivan Mendoza
Course Start: Apr 22, 2024
Ivan Mendoza is a seasoned Character Designer in the animation industry. His latest work is with Disney TV. Prior to his time at Disney, he worked for a number of studios, including Netflix, Dreamworks, Warner Brothers, Titmouse, Atomic Cartoons, and Starburns Industries. His design approach is unique in that it focuses on the life and performance of the character. Ivan has an inherent ability to want to share his knowledge and motivate aspiring artists. He has been a guest speaker at various colleges and mentorship groups for students interested in animation. He has also helped CTN and Center Stage Gallery hold portfolio reviews.
Instructor's Gallery
PRICING SCHEDULE
Even though our courses are the most affordable for the quality of education, these finance options allow you to focus on your goals instead of the barriers that keep you from reaching them.
3x Payments
$249.67
2x Payments
$374.50
Full payment
$749
Spring TERM REGISTRATION
Now Open
Jan 31, 2024 -
Apr 22, 2024
COURSE BEGINS on Apr 22, 2024
What makes this learning experience unique?
PERSONALIZED FEEDBACK
Receive personalized feedback on all assignments from the industry’s top professionals.
LIFETIME ACCESS
Enjoy lifetime access to the spectrum of course content, including lectures, live Q&As, and feedback sessions.
CERTIFICATION
Show off your Certification of Completion when you turn in 80% of course assignments.
FLEXIBLE LEARNING
Learn anywhere, anytime, and at your own pace with flexible, online course scheduling.
Need guidance? We’re Here to Help.
We can help with admissions questions, portfolio review/course recommendations!
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