The Animation Project 2023

The Animation Project (FREE)

Intake Form
Are you passionate about animation and storytelling? Do you want to explore the fascinating world of animation through an engaging and dynamic workshop program? Look no further! The Animation Project is back, and we have exciting changes for the 2023 edition that you won't want to miss!

What do I need to know about the program?

Workshop Modules: The program consists of 7 workshop modules running from September 4 to November 24, 2023. You will have the flexibility to sign up for multiple modules or focus on a single one. The online sessions will be 2 hours long and the in-person session will be 4 hours long.

The final module will conclude with an in-person session to commemorate the end of the program and give participants the opportunity to connect.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to delve into the world of animation, learn from expert facilitators, and connect with fellow animation enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned animator or just starting your journey, The Animation Project 2023 is the perfect platform for you to explore, learn, and create!

About Cristal Buemi, Lead Facilitator

Cristal Buemi is a Puerto Rican Canadian toronto-based multimedia artist. She holds a BA from Toronto Metropolitan University and an MA from Bau, Design College of Barcelona. While multidisciplinary by nature, (stop motion animation, video art, photography, collage and digital design), her work pushes frame by frame boundaries by exploring the materiality and inherent beauty found in the minutia, through an experimental, and ecological lens. Cristal’s practice revolves around abstract storytelling, sustainability and texture through a plethora of natural and recycled materials. Both her collaborative and individual works have been exhibited worldwide including: The New York City Independent Film Festival, Animac, Harbourfront Centre’s CoMotion Festival, Fashion Art Toronto, Venus Fest, Stop Motion Montreal and broadcasted on AMC and HBO.

Cristal’s diverse education and artistic practice both personal and industry based, have influenced her to become a flexible experimental thinker and maker. This method of practice has inspired her passion for pedagogy and exploratory creative expression through community art education in collaboration with various organizations and academic spaces such as OCAD University’s Experimental Animation program, TIFF, SKETCH, TAIS, Big Brothers Big Sisters Canada, North York Arts and the Toronto District School board, both in person and online. Cristal’s teaching philosophy is all about an engaged pedagogy while creating safe, flexible and accessible learning environments. As a facilitator she has had the opportunity to work with participants of various ages and backgrounds by leading artistic workshops, talks, camps and courses to help advance their creative practices.

Cristal most recently co-founded Frame by Frame, a research and programming initiative that through the magic of stop motion animation creates flexible and adaptive artistic opportunities accessible to participants of all abilities.

For more information about Cristal visit her website HERE

To learn more about the program, please click HERE
This program is for people ages 55+ living in North York. Are you eligible for this program?*

YesNo
All North York residents are encouraged to apply to this program, but please note that priority will be given to Indigenous, Black and People of Colour as well as to 2SLGBTQ+ community members and Newcomers (people who have arrived to Canada within 7 years). Do you self identify with one or more of these priority groups?*

YesNo
SECTION 2: CONTACT INFORMATION
Name*

First NameLast Name
Preferred Name
Date of birth*

DayMonthYear
Date
Postal Code*
Personal Email*
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Phone Number*
Please enter a valid phone number.
Section 3: PROGRAM QUESTIONS
What is the name and model number of the device you will be using to join the Zoom meetings? (computer/laptop/phone/tablet/ipad/etc)*
What is the name and model number of the device you will be using to use the Stop Motion Animation App? (smartphone/tablet/ipad/etc)*
Prerequisites:*

Basic level of digital literacy. Can produce photos, videos, and send/receive emails, texts etc on their deviceHave the ability to record videos/audio and take photos with their smartphoneFeel comfortable sharing and uploading content from their smartphone via email, google drive, dropbox or wetransferAttend each class in the module you signed up forHave an interest in art, storytelling, filmmaking and thinking outside the boxBe open minded to learning new creative skills, and connecting with other members within the artistic community
Materials + Equipment:*

Reliable internet connection.A computer, tablet or smartphone to host weekly zoom classes (Device must be charged)A smartphone with a minimum storage space of 1GB (will be used as camera throughout the course and is separate from device that will host the class)Table or desk space used for small animation studioComfortable chairHeadphones
Why are you interested in this program? *
Modules

Module 1: Foundations in Technology (Module Closed)
Module 1: Foundations in Technology (Online)

September 5th & 7th @ 6pm-8pm | Online | Max 20 participants

1) September 5th @ 6pm-8pm: Digital Literacy + Me

This workshop is all about getting comfortable with a virtual community and environment. We will explore different platforms, terminology, and file-sharing spaces. We will also review best practices for photo and video capturing on a smartphone.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom and a smartphone.

2) September 7th @ 6 pm-8 pm: DIY At Home Studio Setups

Have you ever wanted to make your own tripod, or set up a reliable studio space at home for photography or animation? Then this workshop is for you. Join us as we discuss studio equipment like lighting, camera, and tripods/mounts. As well as DIY solutions for at-home studio spaces on a budget.
Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone, something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of a desk etc.) tape.

Module 2: Animation Basics (Module Closed)
Module 2: Animation Basics

September 12th, 14th, 19th + 21st @ 6pm-8pm | Online | Max 20 participants

1) September 12th @ 6pm-8pm: Introduction to Frame by Frame Art Making (Online)

We will begin to explore the wonderful world of Stop Motion Animation in this introductory workshop. Covering the history, terminology and basics of this diverse and unique medium where the possibilities are endless.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, paper, scissors, tape, markers/pencil, a straw, chopstick, skewer or stick.

2) September 14th @ 6pm-8pm: Animation Principles 1 (Online)

In this workshop, we will focus on some foundational elements of animation and dive into “Stop Motion Studio”, a free animation app available across most platforms.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone with the free Stop Motion Studio app and something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of a desk etc.) tape and some found objects.

3) September 19th @ 6pm-8pm: Animation Principles 2 (Online)

Timing and spacing are fundamental principles when it comes to animation. In this class we will uncover how these principles work and their importance when it comes to realistic animation. Additionally, we will begin to discover creative animated transitions.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone with the free Stop Motion Studio app and something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of desk etc.) Found objects, craft supplies, and or clay.

4) September 21st @ 6pm-8pm: Animation Principles 3 (Online)

No matter what type of animation you are interested in, understanding the 12 principles of animation will help elevate your skills by creating smooth, engaging and interesting movements. Through discussion and practice, we will discover what the principles are, and how they work together.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone with the free Stop Motion Studio app and something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of a desk etc.) Found objects, craft supplies, and or clay.

Module 3: Storytelling (Deadline to Apply: September 14th)
Module 3: Storytelling
September 26th, 28th, October 3rd + 5th @ 6pm-8pm | Online | Max 40 participants

1) September 26th @ 6pm-8pm: Deconstructing Stories (Online)

To become better storytellers first, we must understand what different types of story structures are out there. In this class, we will explore different narrative/non-narrative storytelling formats.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, paper and pen/pencil.

2) September 28th @ 6pm-8pm: Creative Writing (Online)

This class is all about going beyond traditional storytelling and diving into creative writing that includes spoken word/performance, and poetry, all through a stream-of-consciousness point of view. This workshop will help get your creative ideas flowing and practice various brainstorming techniques.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, paper and pen/pencil.

3) October 3rd @ 6pm-8pm: Visual Storytelling (Online)

The most powerful and impactful stories are often our most personal ones. Together through discussion, we will share our cultural, and historical stories to expand our communication skills and understand different perspectives. We will then explore how language can connect to colour, texture, movement and composition and help drive our visual stories forward.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, paper and pen/pencil.

4) October 5th @ 6pm-8pm: Storyboarding (Online)

In this workshop, we will be joined by an animation industry professional storyboard artist who will share the ins and outs of what makes a good storyboard.

Materials + Equipment Needed: A device to host Zoom, paper and pen/pencil.
Sign me up for this module*

YesNo

Module 4: Mixed Media Animation (Deadline to Apply: September 28th)
Module 4: Mixed Media Animation
October 14th, 21st, 28th, 31st + November 2nd | Hybrid | Max of 12 people

All in-person workshops in this module will be at TAIS (1411 Dufferin St Unit B, Toronto, ON M6H 4C7)

1) October 14th @1pm-5pm : Natural Materials (In-person)
Exploring the gathering and animating rituals of Phytograms, a technique where natural materials are used to process film and create tactical moving layered images. In this workshop we will begin by gathering natural materials from the outdoors, to then create our very own experimental film strips.

All equipment and materials will be provided.

2) October 21st @1pm-5pm: Paper puppets (In-person)
In this workshop, we will review the different types of paper puppets and learn how to make our very own, which we will later bring to life through stop-motion animation.

All equipment and materials will be provided.

3) October 28th @1pm-5pm: Pixilation (In-person)
Join us for this Halloween-themed workshop where we will expand our exploration of Pixilation (an animated technique where human beings become the life-size characters of the stories) and learn how to animate on a large scale to incorporate full-body movements while interacting with props and background elements. Participants will build their own backgrounds and then direct collaborative animated sequences.

All equipment and materials will be provided.

4) October 31st @ 6pm-8pm: Claymation (Online)
In this spooky workshop edition, we will be diving into the magical world of claymation. Bringing clay shapes and colours to life through stop motion animation and various animated transitions.

Equipment + Materials Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone with the free Stop Motion Studio app and something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of a desk etc.) clay, sculpting knives, tape and background paper.

5) November 2nd @ 6pm-8pm: Clay characters (Online)
Continuing with our exploration of clay, we will discuss clay characters and all that goes into building your own clay puppet ready for animation. Participants will have an opportunity to make their very own clay-based figures and characters.

Equipment + Materials Needed: A device to host Zoom, clay, tape, glue, scissors, sculpting knives, wire or pipe cleaners, craft supplies and fabric.
Sign me up for this module*

YesNo

Module 5: Drawing Mediums in Animation (Deadline to Apply: October 26th)
Module 5: Drawing Mediums in Animation
November 7th + 9th | Online | Max 40 participants for online

1) November 7th @ 6pm-8pm: Hand Drawn Animation (Online)
Through a hands-on approach, in this workshop, we will explore different animation techniques using pen, pencil and erasers. Participants have the opportunity to create their very own expanded flipbooks and animated sequences using hand-drawn techniques.

Equipment + Materials Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone with the free Stop Motion Studio app and something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of a desk etc.) a stack of paper, pencil, pen, eraser, or charcoal and tape.

2) November 9th @ 6pm-8pm: Frame by Frame Painting (Online)
Continuing our exploration of drawing techniques, we will practice and discuss paint as a medium to animate with. We will cover various techniques such as; paint on glass, cell painting and how colour is used to tell stories. Discover which approach you to connect with most!

Equipment + Materials Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone with the free Stop Motion Studio app and something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of a desk etc.) paper, paint, paint brushes, acetate or an empty picture frame.
Sign me up for this module*

YesNo

Module 6: Sound for Animation (Deadline to Apply: November 2nd)
Module 6: Sound for Animation
November 14th + 16th | Online | Max 30 participants for online

1) November 14th @ 6pm-8pm: Sound for animation 1 (Online)
Music plays an important role in storytelling, especially in animation. In this workshop we will dive into the use of sound in various animations, and how to capture tone, mood, and pace when pairing movement with sound.

Equipment + Materials Needed: A device to host Zoom.

2) November 16th @ 6pm-8pm: Sound for animation 2 (Online)
Sound effects are used to further engage audiences with animation and storytelling. In this workshop, we will explore how sound effects are used to highlight movement in animation, and how to source or create your very own.

Equipment + Materials Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone and found objects.
Sign me up for this module*

YesNo

Module 7: Out of the Box (Deadline to Apply: November 9th)
Module 7: Out of the Box
November 21st + 23rd | Hybrid | Max 40 participants for online | Drop in style for closing workshop | No max # of people | In-person workshop in this module will be at North York (TBA)

1) November 21st @ 6pm-8pm: Animating outside the box (Online)
In this class, we will discuss and explore the many unconventional materials, objects and techniques used within animation that go beyond traditional mediums used in frame-by-frame art making. We will cover items like light painting, powder animation, felt, 3D printing and even sewing as potential animating tools.

Equipment + Materials Needed: A device to host Zoom, a smartphone with the free Stop Motion Studio app and something to hold your device in place (tripod, selfie stick, mount, stack of books, cardboard box, edge of a desk etc.) unconventional materials or objects that spark curiosity on how you would bring them to life. Think yarn, felt, jewelry, metals, clothing etc. The world is your oyster!

2) November 23rd @ 6pm-8pm: Sand Animation + Closing (In person)
For our last workshop, we will be gathering for a drop-in style format workshop covering sand animation. Participants will have an opportunity to explore sand animation and its many meditative and experimental properties through their very own sequences. This will also be an opportunity for all participants across all modules to come together as a form of reflection and community building to wrap up our program. Work created throughout the project will be on display and snacks and light refreshments will be served. So come out and help us celebrate the closing of The Animation Project 2023.

All equipment and materials will be provided.
Sign me up for this module*

YesNo
Please tell us if you have any specific needs in order to participate in this program:*

The Animation Project (FREE)

SECTION 2: CONTACT INFORMATION

Section 3: PROGRAM QUESTIONS

Modules

In Partnership with TAIS!