Class Description
Get ready to dive into the world of digital art trends by creating your own animated GIFs! In this class, you’ll use Photoshop and Procreate to make simple animations while learning key principles of motion, timing, and visual storytelling. Whether it’s a loop for social media, or a cool piece of digital art, you’ll discover how GIFs are shaping modern culture and digital expression. By the end, you’ll have your own collection of eye-catching loops that are perfect for sharing online or adding to your digital art portfolio.
Learning Objectives: in this class, students will learn about:
- Applying animation techniques using digital tools such as Photoshop and/or Procreate;
- Understanding the foundational principles of motion and timing in animation;
- Exploring and utilizing key elements of art and principles of design—specifically movement, repetition, emphasis, contrast, and form—to create dynamic visual compositions;
- Developing skills in visual storytelling by effectively communicating ideas and narratives without the use of words;
- Examining the cultural impact of GIFs and their role in shaping modern digital communication and self-expression;
- The art of the peer critique and giving peer critiques on the progress of student work;
- Opportunities and potential resources on career pathways;
- How to distribute, exhibit, and promote artwork for a variety of audiences.
Equipment
- iMacs
- Wacom tablets
- iPads
- iPencils
Software
- Photoshop
- Procreate
Deliverables: Students and Class Projects
- By the end of the course, each student will create two or more custom animated GIFs that showcase their understanding of animation principles, design elements, and visual storytelling.
- These animations will be designed as eye-catching, seamless loops, ideal for sharing on social media, messaging platforms, or including in a digital art portfolio.
- Students will retain a final folder containing their finished animations in multiple file formats—.GIF and .MP4—to ensure compatibility across various platforms and devices.
