Unit Seven : Claymation Videos
In this unit, students will work in teams to create stop-motion animation films. By creating these Claymation films; students will be able to create a unique character of their own design before coming together as a group to build sets and develop a story line. Using digital cameras and Windows Movie Maker students will compile individually shot frames into short films which will be premiered on the last day of class.
Task One : Clay Practice
So far this year we have been doing a lot of two dimensional art. To help you transition into working in three dimensions, we will be doing several days of clay practice in class. One exercise that can help an artist master clay skills is to experiment with losing one of their senses. We will use this sunglass template to create blindfolds that will help us to work with clay in new ways!
Task Two: Character Design
The first step in creating our Claymation videos is to design our individual characters. In your sketchbook, please draw a front and back view of the character you would like to sculpt. Your drawings should be fully colored and as detailed as possible. Next to your drawings please include a list of the colors of clay you will need to sculpt your character. From these drawings and this list is how you will receive your clay. For example, if you do not write that you need hot pink clay and you do not color your character with hot pink hair, do not expect to receive hot pink clay. Below is a tutorial video on the steps you will need to follow to build your Claymation character. Please remember that all characters must be able to stand unassisted and are required to have an armature.
A Sneak Peek At How The Pros Work
Watch this teaser trailer created by Latika Studios for their Claymation movie "The Boxtrolls" and get a brief behind the scenic look at what it is like to create a feature length stop-motion animation film.
Watch the introductory credits to the children's show "Gumby" that was developed by animator Art Clokey. This long running classic helped to pave the way for animators like Nick Park and Will Vinton.
provided by ReKu3008
In class we will have the chance to watch several films created by the animator Nick Park and Aardman Studios. Please visit this site to learn more about their production company and how they create their wonderful cast of characters.
Task Three: Group Story Development
Uses this form to help structure your group participation. You will need to work together to develop a storyline and build the necessary sets and props before you will be able to film.
Task Three: Film and Edit
Your group will work together to film your stop-motion film. This will require you to take a series of individual photographs that you and your group will later work together to edit with the assistance of the program Windows Movie Maker into a short, stop-motion animated film. During filming it will be helpful for you to assign jobs to each group member. You will need a photographer, director, character movers, continuity specialists and editors.
Project Evaluation
Please complete this self evaluation and hand it in with your completed claymation character.
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Examples of Finished Projects |
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Here are examples of Claymation videos created by former Holt Junior High Students:
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