WEEK 11: 2D Animation Using Flash, Intro to Character Design

This week we're really getting into the nitty-gritty of frame-by-frame animation techniques using Flash.

For inspiration, we'll be looking at some work created using this method. We'll discuss the animation principles most applicable to creating 2D animation: exaggeration, solid drawing, and appeal. We'll start some simple animation cycles using the bouncing ball and our trusted flour sack.

Simplicity is a necessity with this labour-intensive medium. We'll have a look at one of the most popular examples of hand-drawn Flash animation -- Simon's cat.  The creator, Simon Tofield, created his first Flash cartoon to teach himself Flash. 

We'll also start thinking about the final assignment for the year -- a 2D/live action integration project.

We'll discuss character design techniques -- finding a style using at all kinds of media including what's in your fridge..

Bring your tablets! Be ready to draw...

Homework:  Design a character for the final project. Have a printout of it ready to hang on the wall.
Three words of advice:

1. Keep. 
2. It. 
3. Simple!

If you're stuck check out these simple characters for inspiration:
Powerpuff Girls
Kirby
"Mr Men" and "Little Miss"
Super Meat Boy
Zero
Rex the Runt
Erky Perky
Ilo Milo
Patapon
Picachu
Moomin
Totoro, Soot (and other Ghibli/Miyazaki cartoons)
Stick Figures
Pikmin
Bone
Mole sisters
Sandra Boynton
Pocoyo
Breadwig.com
Teen Girl Squad (Homestarrunner)