Curriculum

Term 1: Foundation

VanArts’ Visual Effects program is designed to familiarize students with the fundamentals of Visual Effects Production. Students will learn the basics of 3D Modeling, Animation & Rendering, 2D Image Manipulation & Compositing, and the history of visual effects techniques. The goal for Term 1 is to build a strong understanding of the building blocks of FX production.

3D FUNDAMENTALS:

• Basic Modeling/Shading/Texturing
• Basic Prop Rigging
• Keyframe Animation
• Introduction to Dynamic Simulations
• Lighting
• Basic Rendering
• Introduction to Programming for Artists

2D FUNDAMENTALS:

• Basic Image Manipulation
• Introduction to Node Based Compositing Systems
• Bit Depth
• Premultiplication
• Rotoscoping

GENERAL STUDIES:

• History of Visual Effects
• Introduction to Design

Term 2: Connections

During this second term students will begin to apply what they have learned from term 1. Intermediate FX topics, such as Dynamic Simulations and Character Rigging will be studied with an emphasis on how and why things work the way they do, rather than simply showing “where the button is”. The goal for Term 2 is for students to understand the process of FX production on an abstract level.

INTERMEDIATE 3D TECHNIQUES:

• Intermediate Modeling
• Introduction to Custom Shading Networks
• Character Rigging
• Intermediate Dynamic Simulations
• Image Based Lighting
• Layered Rendering for Compositing
• Intermediate Programming for Artists

INTERMEDIATE 2D TECHNIQUES:

• Introduction to Color Correction
• Image Tracking

GENERAL STUDIES:

• Digital Cinematography
• Concept Development

Term 3: Exploration

In Term 3, students start “colouring outside the lines” as they are required to apply what they know in inventive and innovative ways to solve a variety of production requirements. Advanced topics such as Procedural Modeling and Destruction will emphasize creative solutions to complex production problems. Students will also begin specializing in areas of particular interest to themselves. The goal for Term 3 is for students to demonstrate innovative and analytical thinking as well as artistic and technical expertise.

ADVANCED 3D TECHNIQUES AND PROCEDURAL SOLUTIONS:

• Automated Modeling Systems
• Advanced Shading Networks
• Advanced Dynamics/Destruction Systems
• Custom Lighting/Rendering Techniques
• Advanced Programming for Artists

ADVANCED 2D TECHNIQUES:

• Color Space
• Pulling Keys
• “Two and a Half D” Compositing
• Command Line Workflow

GENERAL STUDIES:

• Studio Shooting
• Green Screen
• Working with Actors

Term 4: Production

The final term at VanArts is dedicated to the production of an industry grade demo reel. Students working under the guidance of their instructors, create demo reels which illustrate their particular skills and talent. Production issues such as DVD and Web page authoring are covered, as are the elements of an effective reel such as good pacing, shot break downs and industry focus. The goal for Term 4 is to complete a demo reel that will clearly demonstrate to Studio Recruiters and Visual Effects Supervisors, the skill and ability of the student.