Animation & Digital Arts
cinema.usc.edu/animationdsigismondi@cinema.usc.edu
213.740.3986
Marcia Lucas Post-Production Building (LPB) 202a
Animation Fundamentals
An introduction to the fundamentals of animation,
covering such topics as timing, anticipation, reaction,
overlapping action and metamorphosis.
CTAN 330 / 2 units / Ton Sito / 17850D / 7-10:00 pm / Th
The World of Visual Effects
Introduction to the expanding field of animation, from
classical to experimental and computer animation,
including virtual reality and the latest digital visual effects
for Hollywood feature films.
CTAN 432 / 2 units / TBA / 17856R / 9:30-12:20 pm / F
3D Animation and Character Design
The study of computer animation including storyboarding,
geometric modeling, choreography, lighting, texture mapping,
background creation and rendering. Lecture and laboratory.
CTAN 443 / 2 units / TBA / 17864D / 11-1:50 pm / M and 1-3:50 pm / F
This class runs another section for Game Design (17866D)
Introduction to Film Graphics-Animation
(CTAN)*
Practical course in concepts, media and techniques related
to the graphic film: symbology, composition, kinestasis,
animation, typography, color and materials. Survey;
lecture; production. Non-majors admitted on a
space-available basis.
CTAN 448 / 4 units / Shelley Wattenbarger / 17868D / 1-3:50 pm / F
Animation Theory and Techniques
(CTAN)*
Direct application of animation theory and techniques to
drawing skills, story and continuity: design staging, timing,
camera potential and action analysis. Lecture and laboratory.
CTAN 450A / 2 units / Shelley Wattenbarger / 17874D / 4-5:50 pm / W
Introduction to 3D Computer Animation
(CTAN)*
Exploring computer animation, including geometric modeling,
motion specification, lighting, rendering, texture mapping,
compositing, production techniques and systems for
computer synthesized animation. Lecture and laboratory.
CTAN 452 / 2 units / Dariush Derakshari / 17892D / 7-10:00 pm / T and 1-3:50 pm / F
Visual Effects
Survey of contemporary concepts and approaches to
production in the current state of film and video effects
work. Digital and traditional methodologies will be
covered, with a concentration on digital exercises
illustrating modern techniques. Lecture and laboratory.
CTAN 462 / 2 units / Eric Hanson / 17898D / 1-3:50 pm / M and 1-3:50 pm/ F
Experimental Animation
The creation of visuals for music is fertile ground for
digital artists. This class examines the history of
animation and visual effects in music video and
culminates in the creation of an animated music video.
CTAN 495b / 2 units / Mike Patterson / 17907D / 4-6:50 pm / M
Virtual Reality and Stereoscopic Animation
An in-depth exploration of aesthetics and techniques
involved in the conceptualization, design and production
of immersive virtual environments and stereoscopic
animation.
CTAN 502a / 2 units / TBA / 17916D / 1-3:50 pm / W
Motion Capture Performance
The art of acting, directing, story and performance
for motion capture will be explored while learning
cutting-edge technologies involved in bringing virtual
actors and worlds to life.
CTAN 599 / 2 units / Mike Patterson & Eric Furie / 17997D / TBA
Prerequisite: CTAN-452 + Mo Cap Fundamentals
