Sony Pictures Animation and Sony Pictures Imageworks have teamed with the educational platform Yellowbrick for “This Is Animation,” a free online course that introduces learners of all ages to the art and industry of animated filmmaking. Hosted by animation director Kris Pearn (The Willoughbys, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2), the course includes five modules that allow users to explore the core pillars of animation storytelling. “Animation is one of the most collaborative of all storytelling mediums,” said Pearn. “This course is about pulling back the curtain, showing the magic behind the process, and inviting new voices to explore careers - both artistic and non-artistic - in this incredible industry.” Check out a teaser for the course now: The course breaks down the animation process into five modules: The Pipeline – A big-picture look at the animation production process, including pre-production, production, and post-production. Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the different stages involved in bringing an animated project to life. The Idea – Explores how creative concepts evolve into stories. This module delves into the art of storytelling, focusing on the development of compelling narratives, themes, and character arcs specifically tailored for animation. The Hero – Craft compelling animated characters. Learners will discover the secrets behind creating memorable and relatable characters, exploring aspects such as personality, design, and animation techniques that breathe life into these creations. The World – Design immersive animated environments. This module takes learners on a journey through the art of world-building, focusing on the creation of visually stunning and believable settings that transport audiences to the heart of the story. Pulling It All Together – Showcase the many career paths in animation beyond art, including production management, business affairs, marketing, finance, and talent acquisition. This module highlights the wide range of career paths that exist in the animation industry. “This Is Animation” also features hands-on experiential learning, allowing participants to design their own rudimentary animated character and bring it to life through interactive exercises. “At Sony Pictures Animation, we believe great stories can come from anywhere,” said Kristine Belson and Damien de Froberville, presidents of Sony Pictures Animation. “Through this course, we want to inspire a new generation of talent and show that you don’t need to be an artist to work in animation - there truly is a place for everyone who possesses a love for the artform and the drive to be a part of it.” “At Sony Pictures Imageworks, we’ve always been proud to foster some of the most innovative talent in animation and VFX,” added Michelle Grady, president of Sony Pictures Imageworks. “We’re excited to launch this groundbreaking free online course, which not only demystifies the animation process but also empowers aspiring animators to explore their creativity and take their first steps into this dynamic field.” Users can now enroll in “This Is Animation” with an email address. Those who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion. Source: Sony Pictures Animation Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.