The summer school programme co-hosted by the Beijing Film Academy Animation School and the renowned French animation school GOBELINS has successfully concluded.
The three-week summer school, which started on June 30th and ended with the return to China on July 21st, not only provided valuable learning opportunities for the participating teachers and students but also promoted exchanges and cooperation in the field of animation education between the two countries.
The Beijing Film Academy Animation School
Established in 2000, the Beijing Film Academy Animation School originated from the Animation Specialty of the Fine Arts Department of the Beijing Film Academy, which was initially founded in 1952.
Over more than 70 years, the animation specialty has cultivated a large number of outstanding animation talents for China and achieved remarkable accomplishments both domestically and internationally.
The Summer School
During the summer school, students delved into professional knowledge and techniques of animation production and had the opportunity to interact face-to-face with top international animation masters. The summer school kicked off with a wonderful speech by animation master Kristof SEERRAND at the welcome meeting, which inspired the students’ enthusiasm for learning.
Students received role animation courses from industry experts, including the twelve principles of animation, character design, story design, and motion capture technology. Additionally, they participated in unique acting and life drawing courses provided by animation master Robert Bennett. In the storyboard course, storyboard designer Valentin LUCAS specifically taught the students the process of storyboard production, composition, and the use of perspective and shots, helping them to improve in animation creation.
At the same time, teaching assistants provided personalized one-on-one tutoring for each student, guiding them to avoid common mistakes in storyboards and improve the use of lens language, giving students a deeper understanding of animation creation.
Apart from professional learning, students also explored the deep artistic heritage of Paris in their spare time. They visited landmark art venues such as the Louvre and the Pompidou Center and recorded the unique scenery and cultural atmosphere of Paris in the streets, broadening their horizons and drawing inspiration for their creations.
The Dean of the Beijing Film Academy Animation School said: “The cooperation with GOBELINS this time was very successful. We are very grateful for the high-quality educational resources and support provided by Gobelins. Our students not only learned cutting-edge animation technology and design concepts but also gained valuable international exchange experience. This will have a profound impact on their future careers.”
« During my study in France, I deeply felt the unique educational style and rich cultural life of France. Academically, interaction and discussion encourage students to think independently, and this open learning method has benefited me a lot. »
Zhang Weiyi - GOBELINS’ STUDENT
« The three weeks at Gobelins made me have a deeper understanding and recognition of the art of animation. This study tour not only gave me the opportunity to learn from top teachers in the animation industry but also allowed me to exchange and share. »
Tang Sihan - GOBELINS’ STUDENT
« How to maintain focus and enthusiasm in the fast-paced study and life, and how to complete new topics in a short time, these 20 days are full of challenges everywhere. The teachers at the school are all very passionate about creation! »
Manhin Tang - GOBELINS’ STUDENT
« This is a very unforgettable experience, in terms of meeting many new friends, learning a lot of knowledge from the teachers on the front line of the industry, learning lifelong learning methods and attitudes from classmates. »