Frame-by-frame animation is a long-established technique that creates the illusion of movement from a sequence of still images. Originally an optical toy, such as the praxinoscope, animation has continued to evolve with each technological advance. Today it is found in film, education, video games, and social media, and it continues to develop with AI. It has lost none of its imaginative and creative potential. Moreover, with the development of digital tools, it has become democratized and accessible to a wide audience. Anyone can now make an animation.

This course aims to introduce the creative possibilities of frame-by-frame animation. To that end, it covers two basic techniques: drawn animation and stop-motion (3D) animation.

Each technique includes four classes. In the first, through an exercise, we cover all the technical questions involved in creating an animation. In the following three classes, you create a small personal project, as we work through the stages of creation and design. Drawn animation work is individual, while stop-motion work is done in groups.

Drawn animation is created on a graphics tablet. It is a practice that requires careful thought while drawing. By animating a brief action, we see how to create a character, how to place it in a setting, and how to break down the movement in order to draw the animation.

Stop-motion animation, for its part, is more intuitive. Much like a film shoot, it raises the question of animating directly in front of the camera. Using a wire armature puppet, we develop a short script, customize the puppets, build and light a set, position the camera, and capture the frames of the animation.

After this course, you will have the skills to make an animation on your own.

Target audience

This course is primarily intended for people familiar with the fields of art and/or design who wish to strengthen their professional prospects in areas related to emerging technologies.

Prerequisites

No technical skills are required apart from basic computer literacy (word processing, file management, etc.).

You are welcome to bring your own laptop or graphics tablet.

Learning outcomes

• Gain an overview of the practice of frame-by-frame animation.
• Know the tools needed to make an animation.
• Know the stages involved in making an animation.
• Be able to make a short animation independently.
• Be able to create personal and original animations.

Course format

Lectures and workshops.

Dates and detailed program (Spring/Fall 2026)

Taught by