Basics of Computer Design and Animation WSL/TTL/PPiAK-L
The aim of the course is to introduce students to the world of film animation, with a particular emphasis on stop-motion techniques as a form of creative expression and a narrative tool. Throughout the course, students explore the fundamental principles of animation design and production, from developing concepts and scripts to designing characters and sets, creating storyboards, and producing short animated films and sequences.
Particular attention is given to the practical aspects of stop-motion animation, including working with a variety of materials (such as plasticine, paper and three-dimensional puppets), the principles of movement, lighting and image recording. Students also create short exercises in drawn animation in the form of flipbooks. Their stop-motion projects include cut-out and collage animation, clay animation and puppet animation.
Participants learn how to build a simple puppet for film animation, using a wire armature, and become familiar with the materials used in its construction.
As part of the animation course, students also acquire basic theoretical knowledge of animation techniques, with a particular focus on stop-motion as an artistic and narrative medium. They learn to recognise the diverse styles and aesthetic strategies characteristic of different forms of animation by analysing the work of both pioneering and contemporary artists. The course also introduces key aspects of the history of animated film.
An important element of the course is the development of analytical and descriptive skills. Students learn to discuss the expressive means, rhythm, visual qualities of movement and narrative structure of animation with precision. This enables them to develop their own projects more consciously and participate competently in discussions about animated film.
The course combines theory and practice. Students create their own animation exercises and short films, analyse examples from the history of animation, and explore the creative potential of stop-motion animation in theatre, art installations and multimedia forms of expression.
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Term 2025/26-L:
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Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge (W)
The student:
- knows the basic techniques of stop-motion animation and understands their application in various artistic and narrative contexts;
- recognises different animation styles and can situate them within their historical and aesthetic contexts;
- has knowledge of the materials, tools and production stages involved in creating a stop-motion animated film;
- understands the significance of animation as a means of artistic expression and a form of audiovisual communication.
(T_W06, T_W08, T_W11)
Skills (U)
The student:
- is able to independently design and produce a short stop-motion animation, from the initial concept to post-production, including editing and post-production in collaboration with a specialist;
- can construct a simple puppet for animation and select appropriate materials for its construction;
- uses basic terminology for describing and analysing animation and can interpret expressive means, rhythm and the visual qualities of movement in an animated work;
- can prepare a simple script, storyboard and production plan for an animated short;
- is able to make independent decisions, listen to collaborators and incorporate their feedback in pursuit of a shared goal: the creation of an animated short.
(T_U01, T_U03, T_U05, T_U06)
Social Competences (K)
The student:
- is able to collaborate within a creative team, sharing responsibilities throughout the animation production process;
- demonstrates openness to experimentation and to the development of an individual artistic language;
- understands the importance of engaging critically and thoughtfully with animated works and actively participates in discussions about them;
- is able to critically evaluate their own work and that of others, offering constructive feedback;
- demonstrates the ability to engage in self-assessment.
(T_K01, T_K02, T_K04, T_K08, T_K10)
In terms of knowledge (W):
T_W06
T_W08
T_W11
In terms of skills (U):
T_U01
T_U03
T_U05
T_U06
In terms of social competence (K):
T_K01
T_K02
T_K04
T_K08
T_K10
Assessment criteria
III ( 30 hours. ) - credit without a mark (non-graded pass)
IV ( 30 hours.) - credit with a mark
Review of practical work
Possible individual consultations during the creation of practical work
Assessment in the first semester is pass/fail, based on attendance and participation in classes, as well as the completion of short animation exercises.
Assessment in the second semester is graded. To pass the course, students must attend classes and complete the final assignment: an original short film using a film animation technique of their choice.
The final grade will be based on:
- attendance, participation and engagement during classes;
- the quality and scope of individual work;
- the development of knowledge, skills and critical awareness in the fields of photography and film;
- the assessment of the final projects, with particular emphasis on the work invested and the extent to which the intended objectives have been achieved
- Assessment of the preparation for the presentation of final projects.
Bibliography
Reading List for the Course
1. Paul Wells, "Understanding Animation" (1998).
– A comprehensive analysis of animation theory and practice, including cultural, artistic and technological contexts.
2. Mike Wellins, "Storytelling Through Animation"
– A practical guide to the animation production process, with an emphasis on narrative thinking and design.
3. Richard Williams, "The Animator’s Survival Kit".
– A technical and artistic handbook used by both beginners and professionals, offering an analysis of movement and its individual phases.
4. Mariusz Frukacz, "Rozmowy o animacji. 24 klatki na sekundę"
– A collection of interviews with prominent animated film artists, offering insights into their working processes and diverse approaches to animation.
5. Susannah Shaw, "Stop Motion: Craft Skills for Model Animation" 3rd edition (2017).
– A practical guide to stop-motion techniques, covering all stages of production, from character design to post-production, with an emphasis on the craftsmanship involved in animation.
6. Tom Brierton, "Stop-Motion Puppet Sculpting: A Manual of Foam Injection, Build-Up, and Finishing Techniques" (2004).
– A specialised handbook focusing on sculpting and constructing puppets for stop-motion animation, with an emphasis on practical methods for creating durable and flexible models.
7. "Nie tylko Disney. Rzecz o filmie animowanym", edited by Marcin Giżycki.
– A collection of essays exploring diverse trends and styles in animated film, highlighting the richness of animation beyond the dominant Hollywood tradition and Disney productions.
Supplementary Reading
1. Barry Purves, "Stop Motion: Passion, Process and Performance" (2007).
– An exploration of stop-motion animation from the perspective of an experienced animator, including examples and an analysis of puppet animation.
2. Kit Laybourne, "The Animation Book: A Complete Guide to Animated Filmmaking, from Flip-books to Sound Cartoons to 3-D Animation" (1998 edition).
– A handbook covering a range of animation techniques, both
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Term 2025/26-L:
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Notes
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Term 2025/26-L:
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