If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your name in the credits of a Pixar or Disney production, you’re not alone. But dreams don’t become careers by accident—they start with the right education. For aspiring animators who want to break into the world’s top studios, VanArts is often the first serious step. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, VanArts is one of the top animation schools in Canada, known for its intensive and practical 2D and 3D animation courses.
What truly distinguishes VanArts is its location, curriculum, facilities, and connection to the real animation industry. Graduates from VanArts have gone on to work at major studios like Industrial Light & Magic, DreamWorks, Sony Pictures Imageworks, and yes—Pixar and Disney.
Why Top Animation Studios Look for Trained Talent
To work at a studio like Pixar or Disney, artists need more than creativity. They need to know how to work on tight deadlines, collaborate in teams, and use software like Maya, Toon Boom Harmony, and Adobe tools fluently. Studios often look for portfolios that show not only imagination but also an understanding of motion, acting, timing, and storytelling.
According to The Rookies, an international platform for emerging creatives, formal training plays a huge role in helping young artists meet the technical and artistic standards expected in top-tier studios. That’s why attending a ROOKIES-certified art school in Canada gives students a real competitive advantage.
A Closer Look at VanArts’ Animation Programs
VanArts offers focused 2D and 3D Character Animation Programs that cover the full animation pipeline. Whether you’re interested in drawing expressive characters or moving them through digital environments, this one-year diploma helps students specialize while learning core principles that apply across all animation media.
Here’s what students can expect:
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- Foundational Principles of Animation: Every student begins with the 12 principles of animation, essential for believable movement.
- Acting and Performance: Students learn to express emotion and personality through movement, a key skill for character animation.
- Storytelling for Animation: The curriculum includes storyboarding and visual storytelling to help students build engaging narratives.
- Production Workflow: Students work through the stages of pre-production, production, and post-production using industry software.
- Portfolio Development: From the beginning, students build a demo reel—a crucial requirement when applying to Pixar, Disney, or any major animation studio.
- Foundational Principles of Animation: Every student begins with the 12 principles of animation, essential for believable movement.
Mentorship From Industry Professionals
One major reason why VanArts is ranked among the top animation schools in Canada is the faculty. Instructors are professionals with direct experience working at major studios. They give feedback that reflects the expectations of the industry, not just theory from a textbook.
It’s not uncommon for VanArts students to have their work reviewed by someone who has animated scenes in blockbuster movies or award-winning TV shows. That kind of insight can save years of trial and error.
Graduate Success Stories
VanArts has built a reputation for producing job-ready animators. Many of its alumni have landed roles in high-profile projects shortly after graduation. Studios consistently return to VanArts to hire fresh talent because they know the training is relevant and current.
One alumna joined Disney Vancouver as a CFX artist and worked on Moana 2! Another graduate joined the teams of Dreamworks, Sony, WETA, and is now working with Disney! These aren’t just rare stories—they’re part of what VanArts aims to achieve with each class.
Location Matters: Why Vancouver Is Ideal
Studying animation in Vancouver comes with its own advantages. The city is a global center for film, animation, and visual effects. Dozens of international studios have offices in Vancouver, making it an excellent place for internships, networking, and job opportunities.
Being in close proximity to so many studios also means guest speakers, studio tours, and industry events are a regular part of student life. For those looking for an edge in the competitive animation industry, studying in Vancouver, especially at a school like VanArts, can be a big advantage.
Admissions and What to Expect
VanArts keeps class sizes small to ensure personalized feedback. Applicants are expected to submit a portfolio, but don’t worry if yours isn’t perfect—VanArts also offers an Art Foundation program to help students meet the required level.
What matters most is passion and commitment. The admissions team looks for students who are serious about building a career in animation and are willing to put in the work.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Besides technical skills, VanArts helps students develop soft skills like teamwork, communication, and time management—all essential for success in high-pressure studio environments. You’ll leave not just with a diploma, but with the mindset of a professional animator.
And thanks to ROOKIES-certified art school in Canada, your skills will be recognized on an international platform.
Online Study Options Available
International students can also take advantage of our online study options, making it easier to start building skills from anywhere in the world before transitioning to on-campus learning or entering the workforce.
Start Your Animation Career the Right Way
VanArts isn’t a school for daydreamers. It’s for those ready to take action, to build skills that the animation industry demands, and to start working toward real job opportunities—at Pixar, Disney, or wherever your passion leads you.
If you’re serious about a future in animation, choosing the right school is the first move that can shape your entire career. VanArts gives students the tools, mentorship, and industry connections to turn a passion into a profession.
Join Us at Our Next Open House!
Are you curious to see VanArts in person? Join us at our next Open House on May 24! Explore our state-of-the-art facilities, meet our talented instructors, and learn more about our programs.
Attend Our Online Info Session!
Do you want to learn more about what VanArts has to offer? Register for our next Online Info Session on May 28! Learn more about our programs designed to unleash your creative potential.
Enroll Today for September Intake
Are you ready to take the next step towards your creative future? Enroll today for our September intake and embark on a transformative educational journey.
Now is the perfect time to take control of your future and embark on a journey towards a fulfilling career in art and design. Now is the time to Make Art Your Life!