Friday, January 29, 2010

Penning thoughts


So what else is new besides the iPad?

Last evening, a couple of us from Eggstory popped by DigiPen's information session, something like an open house. Neat four year course in Animation. What was even greater was the tour of the campus and what our eyes feasted on. The above image is of their Drawing Room. Sure brings back memories of my days in California drawing on those benches! I guess I'm stuck with the $5 IKEA chairs that I have for now.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Lights... camera... snap!


Already into the second semester. Boy was that 1-day (excluding weekend) break short. I will comment about classes next another time, after I've been in it a little longer.

Yesterday, I went to Universal Studios for a shoot. A lighting company hired me to capture the works they've done within the park at Sentosa. And of course I had a first glimpse of the park before it opens. Since I'm a theme parks guy... I rate an above average. But this park is definitely better than any of the other theme parks that has opened in Singapore before. Maybe because the entire park isn't fully operational yet? Many of the props and buildings are made here in Singapore and the finishings are just so-so. I'm sure it's always a budget factor. But definitely worth a visit when it has officially opened. Hopefully then, the fine-tuning may just make the difference! :O)

Friday, January 15, 2010

A Sack Reflection



Finally, I'm done with my first 20 weeks. Our assessment ended yesterday and I would like to share this animation from one of my presentation piece with you all.

The flour sack, no doubt simple in design, but it takes a tremendous effort to animate, especially if you are doing it the first time. Timing is key and coupled with comedy, can bring bring about a smile or even laughter in someone feeling down.

I was just sharing with Philip Garcia, my animation instructor, how I used to get really inspired watching Disney movies in the 90s, and would pause the videos to draw out the scenes. Back then, or even when I was older enough to be in college, holding a job as an animator was simply far fetched. Imagine this conversation in Singapore, "What do you want to do when you grow up?"

"Draw cartoons and make people laugh" would be the reply that might cause people to wonder if I am certified crazy. Would have loved to have Philip continue to teach us advanced animation, but that's not going to happen because he is leaving the school. At least, he taught me and that alone is something I can proud of. :O)

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Colour My World


A couple of my classmates have been organising painting sessions outside of class time. And this is the first time I had joined them for the session. We used acrylics and it was a great feeling to be able to apply coloured dyes onto canvases again! :O) See painting here - http://imaginativeworkshop.blogspot.com/

Later in the morning is my assessment session at 10am. 14 of my classmates will showcase their stuff from Semester one. It's been one heck of a ride, especially towards the end with all the last minute swapping with make-up sessions.

For now, it's time to charge up those cells of mine... Zzzz...

Friday, January 8, 2010

Up, up and away!


Today, six of my classmates surprised me with this book. How cool! Thanks, guys!! I will be enjoying every bit of inspiration from it! I've peeked on the inside and it's been WOW so far!

I completed my flour sack animation... finally! Phew! Now I can start piecing my assessment stuff together. It's on Wednesday, 13 Jan. We are not having much of a school break as assessment has been pushed forward to day 10 of the 14 days of break we were suppose to have. So much for taking a break.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Twenty Ten


Cheers to 2010!!

I rendered the drink above on board North West Airlines on my way to Japan in my sketch journal. In this new and exciting year ahead, I will be resurrecting Imaginative's Workshop Blog. Instead of my design works, you will be seeing more sketches and illustrations posted there. http://imaginativeworkshop.blogspot.com/ This will keep me drawing for the year... hopefully. :O)

Speaking of which... O how do I miss my figure drawing classes! Looking forward to this new year and all it has in store for me. Whoooo-peee...