Motion is an imperative part of any modern designer’s toolkit. However, learning time-based software and the fundamental principles of animation is intimidating for many designers who typically only work statically.

This newly designed 10-week course will take a bit of the mystery out of motion, making learning 2D motion graphics enjoyable and worthwhile. Through a series of in-class lectures, hands-on projects, critiques, and classroom discussions, you will learn techniques and approaches to make static compositions come to life, design with a kinetic mindset and understand the links between Photoshop/Illustrator and After Effects. Additionally, this course will cover a basic history of motion design, and how classic principles of animation fit into a modern context for identity systems and information design.

While this class will include how-tos and assistance on software usage, this is not a tutorial class—instead, motion theory and problem solving through technical issues within the Adobe CC will be emphasized. Additional programs outside of the Adobe ecosystem may be touched on in the course.

Required Materials

• Reliable internet connection and Zoom & Slack apps
• Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, and Photoshop CC (Latest)
• A favorite lyric-driven song (.mp3/.wav)
• A vector-based drawing of a logo (original or existing)

• Solid understanding of design and typography
• Foundational understanding of design and typography
• Proficiency in Illustrator/Photoshop
• Intermediate to Advanced skill experiences with Illustrator/Photoshop
• Minimum 5 hours per week for outside of class assignments

Registration for fall classes opens on Wednesday, August 28.

Class size is limited to 14 students to allow for 1:1 feedback

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