Workshop VR Animation at Aalto University

Publication date: 2023-03-05

Author:

Wastyn, Gert
Peixe, Daniel Martín ; Bastamow, Tanja

Abstract:

The workshop on "Animation in VR" was conducted at Aalto University in Finland by Daniel Peixe, a distinguished ex-Disney animator, and Gert Wastyn, the workshop facilitator. Tailored for participants in the Re:Anima International Animation Master program, the workshop aimed to comprehensively explore techniques and principles within the realm of Virtual Animation. Throughout the week-long program, international students were systematically guided through the entire animation workflow in Virtual Reality (VR) using the user-friendly software, "Quill." The workshop covered diverse topics, encompassing drawing in Quill, employing reference images for arm movement training, integrating 3D elements with the Grab tool, frame-by-frame animation techniques, storyboarding, and narrative exploration within the VR medium. Participants were exposed to various facets such as camera manipulation, sound integration, FX animations, and the strategic use of colour for scene lighting enhancement. The workshop incorporated a hands-on approach and practical exercises, such as modelling with simple shapes and the lathe technique. The curriculum introduced animation fundamentals using keyframes and layers, guiding students in uploading their creations to VR animation players on the Quest. Additionally, the workshop delved into diverse applications, covering aspects such as exporting to FBX/alembic formats and generating video exports in mp4. The workshop was a unique learning opportunity for student animators, providing direct insights from Daniel Peixe and Gert Wastyn, both experts in virtual animation. Peixe's VR short film, 'The Remedy,' was an exemplary showcase of the potentialities within VR storytelling. The knowledge imparted during the workshop will undoubtedly prove to be invaluable for students as they continue to explore and excel in the exciting and ever-changing world of virtual animation.