Animation Entrance Portfolio

Instructions

Animation is the art of bringing drawings to life through the illusion of motion. A strong foundation in drawing is essential for success in this competitive field.

We seek applicants who demonstrate a strong understanding of fundamental art principles. This includes a solid grasp of anatomy, proportions, perspective, and overall drawing proficiency. Successful portfolios should strive to showcase a strong foundation in traditional representational drawing and a unique and compelling artistic vision.

This entrance portfolio may be completely digitally or traditionally.

Handing In Your Portfolio

About one month before the Animation portfolio is due, you will be emailed instructions on how to submit your portfolio.

Required Portfolio Assignments

1. Drawings from Life

Life drawing cultivates a deep understanding of human anatomy and movement, crucial for animating believable characters. It hones observational skills and fosters a strong foundation in drawing fundamentals like proportion, perspective, and form, which are essential for creating visually compelling and convincing animated sequences.

A. Create two to three drawings of the human figure, preferably from a figure drawing class

• Full body poses
• 5–20-minute poses
• Line drawing with tone (black and white)

B. Create two to three drawings of the human hand or foot

• Draw the human hand or foot from a few different angles and poses
• Use underlying structure and tone to define form and create dimension
• Line drawing with tone – black and white

Human Hand Drawing

Human Figure Drawing

2. Expression Sheet

Expression sheets are vital for capturing the full range of emotions a character can convey. They serve as a visual guide for animators, providing clear examples of how a character’s facial features should change to express joy, sadness, anger, excitement, etc.

Create an original character in any style

The character can be any type of creature or person that has clear expressions. Draw a neutral or default face for your character. There’s no need to draw the torso. Using the base design, draw an additional 4–5 facial expressions that clearly represent a range of emotions.

Examples include happy, angry, sad, excited, surprised, nervous, confused, embarrassed, etc.

Expression Sheet Example

3. Perspective Drawing/Environmental Design

Environment design plays a crucial role in animation by establishing the mood, setting, and believability of the animated world. It enhances the storytelling and provides a context for the characters and their actions.

Create an original environment (interior or exterior) from your imagination or inspired by real life

• Choose an art style for your environment
• Create two drawings of the same environment from two different angles using 2-point perspective
• Environment/ background must have a ground plane/ stage
• Show structure and perspective in work
• Use line drawing only

Sample Perspective Drawing 1

Sample Perspective Drawing 2

4. Personal Work

Your Entrance Portfolio is a reflection of your unique artistic voice and potential. We encourage you to submit a diverse range of personal artwork, including sketches, drawings, concept design, or animation that showcases your creativity and passion for visual storytelling.

• Consider including an animation demo reel (recommended)
• 4-7 pieces max
• Any medium
• Can be drawings or animation
• Please provide any further art that showcases your strengths as an artist

Example of Personal Work

5. About You

Give us 100-200 words describing your animation and drawing experience, and why you’re interested in the Animation program.

Let us know about any relevant art training you’ve taken and what specific aspects of the animation industry most excite you.

How do you see yourself contributing to the field?