60-414 Advanced ETB: Hand Drawn Animation

10 units, Carnegie Mellon University

This studio course explores experimental animation as a contemporary art practice through two-dimensional, material-focused methods. Students will develop skills in both traditional frame-by-frame and under-the-camera animation techniques while working with a wide-range of physical materials, including charcoal, graphite, paint, sumi ink, collage, risograph, found objects, animation cel, and more. Software will be introduced for compositing, editing, and enhancing the distinctive qualities of the analog processes. Class sessions include lectures, demonstrations, critiques, studio work, and screenings of both contemporary and historical experimental animated films. Weekly assignments challenge students to interpret the various animation techniques through the lens of their own artistic practice and conceptual interests. Throughout the course, students will examine how gesture, time, and materiality can be deliberately employed to shape both motion and meaning.

Prerequisites: 60-110 (min C) or 60-220 (min C) or 60-333 (min C) or 60-125 (min C)

Offered: Fall 2025

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