Squash & Stretch

First it was the timing.

Now its the timing AND anticipation.

Questioned the appearance of the little cube guy but have now grown to love him.

He seems so happy :)

(first time using Flash properly)

Getting closer and closer

Our first storyboard assignment.

I actually was a little surprised to find myself truly enjoying it.

There's something pretty sweet about trying to figure out the best way to present your story.

Like choosing out the best outfit for your baby or finding the perfect spot for a painting.

Deciding to shade with a dark shade of blue instead of black worked rather well.

We didn't have to make them pretty really but why not?

If you enjoy, make the most of it.

As for the story, I kept it simple and reasonably straight forwards.

This way I was focusing more on composition, angles, setting and so on.

Timing a bounce

My first successful bouncing ball exercise.

Many frames slow.

Less frames fast.

Next all I have to do is Squash and Stretch.

Satoshi Kon

While working on my story board assignment, I came across Satoshi Kon's animation, Tokyo Godfathers. It took me exactly 30 minutes into the film to became a fan. 

Not only are his stories and concepts really interesting but also the fluidity of his editing and transitions. In 'Tokyo Godfathers', he managed to transition from the present to the past by merely connecting simple imagery, in this case a blood trail. No colour change or smoky vignette around the scene.Just a blood trail. 

Or what about his flawless transition in 'Millennium Actress'.

One moment the character is bent down in the snow and then, when she stands up she's in a ship yard in her past. Just like that, you understand that she is thinking about her past and haven't gotten lost in the transition.

Once again, animation proves its awesomeness.

My Blue Nose Girl.

Eyebrow wiggle & superpowers.

First session of the year

So I finally had my first life drawing session of the year.

When I heard life drawing was offered as part of the course I cried. Imaginary tears of joy.

I have the utter most respect for life models.

After all, who else is really going to let you to scrutinise and sketch them in the nude, let alone be patient enough to pose longer than a minute.  

Better remember not to take it for granted.

After all, you have to observe reality before you can truly manipulate it.

Right?

Wannabe Ophelia

Now and then, when and if I have time, I tend to get my little drawing tablet out and doodle a few images, sketches, or whatever my imagination takes me.
This time I managed to produce a rather solemn little piece.
I'm pretty sure my love of Millais's painting, Ophelia, came out in this one.