Andover College Creative Media students have been given top career tips from Oscar\u00ae winning Aardman Animations, creators of famous characters including Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep.<\/p>\n
Students were given an exclusive insight into the life and work of professional animator Jim Parkyn who has been in the animation business for 17 years. Aardman Animations\u2019 Senior Model Maker, Jim ran a number of workshops as an exciting introduction to the students\u2019 \u2018stop-motion\u2019 module in their studies.<\/p>\n
Working alongside Jim, the aspiring animators were expertly guided through the creative process of recreating Aardman\u2019s signature character, Gromit. Jim explained \u201cGromit is an interesting character to make. What seems like mistakes can often contribute to the character\u2019s demeanour and during these workshops, we see all different kinds of Gromits, from Gromit puppies to mature versions, with a vast array of emotions\u201d.<\/p>\n
The Andover students are entering the industry at just the right time with Jim saying: \u201cWith nothing more than a lump of clay and a camera phone, you can go anywhere. There are no restrictions as to what you can do in society today.\u201d<\/p>\n
Last year Andover College launched \u2018Digital Futures\u2019, an inspiring new approach to its computing, digital and creative media courses in recognition of the increasing demand for multi-faceted creative and technological skills. According to Jim the importance of digital practice in animation cannot be underestimated: \u201cDigital skills are vitally important in the Film and Media industry today, from specialist skills in editing stop motion animation right down to using social media to self-promote your work. You have to adopt many different hats to be successful in society today and things like social media, website creation and so on are a great platform to get your work out there.\u201d<\/p>\n
Aardman Animations, created in 1972, adeptly engages audiences with compelling stories told through animation which has earned the company a deserved worldwide reputation. Their award-winning work produces a unique brand of independent film alongside work for broadcast and advertising spots. The studio has had ten Oscar\u00ae nominations, and has won four and also received a number of BAFTA nominations and awards.<\/p>\n
Commenting on the unique experience the Creative Media students enjoyed, Deputy Principal Martin Simmons said: \u201cThis opportunity for students to understand project work, the importance of planning and the amount of detail that goes into even a single creation or still shot is exceptional. In a digital age, students being exposed to these fundamental and traditional making skills are a great balancing experience \u2013 understanding this initial stage of creation validates where all great ideas begin.\u201d<\/p>\n