Explore stop motion animation with Morag Porteous

Explore stop motion animation with Morag Porteous 

Simple, everyday objects (cutlery, tools, sewing needles, flowers, bits of machinery, scraps of material…) hold the possibility to come alive, move, express feelings or tell stories. In experimental stop motion, we explore these possibilities by moving found objects under our phone or tablet camera. A simple-to-use, free/low cost app then turns these explorations into animation.

This kind of animation is a playful, focussed process that lets us to tap into creative energy and experiment towards unknown outcomes, in a spirit of camaraderie and collaboration.

This workshop is suitable for anyone who is curious about stop motion animation – whether you’ve never animated before or have a bit of experience and want to learn more. Ages 16 and over; please let us know any accessibility requirements.

(NB: This workshop will be a repeat of the one run in October)

What we’ll do:

• Create worlds and characters using different natural and found objects and materials
• Explore principles that lend more life and emotion to our animations
• Learn the basics of a free/low-cost animation app for phone or tablet
• Share inspiration and creative energy in an experimental and supportive environment.

What should I bring with me?

• Curiosity and openness to experiment together
• Small, everyday objects you would like to see come alive (cutlery, shells, leaves, fabric, fruit, scissors.... anything smaller than a mug)
• A smart phone or tablet (let us know if you don’t have one you can bring)
• The Stop Motion Studio app (either the free trial version, or the low-cost paid version). This can be download via the Apple or Play Store – instructions will be provided
• A charger for your device
• Comfy clothes, notebook, pen
• Water bottle, lunch or snack (there is nowhere to buy food on the site).

What will I take home?

• An embodied experience of animation principles
• A heightened awareness of the inherent life of objects, and the infinite possibilities of animation
• Confidence to experiment further
• Short animation experiment(s) to share privately or online
• A handout summarising the main techniques covered

About the Facilitator:

I got hooked on experimental animation the first time I saw paint come alive under a camera (whilst undertaking a Graduate Diploma in Animation at RMIT in 2005). I’ve worked on animation projects including documentary, experimental animation and a music video, and I’m currently exploring puppet animation. Elsewhere in my life and practice, I have a Master of Fine Arts and over 25 years’ teaching experience (including English language, Art Theory and cultural competence). I’m energized by the unexpected connections that arise in environments of trust and curiosity, and excited to share my passion for creative play and experimental animation.

* Please note, bookings will close midnight Friday 4th November.