Designs On The Creative?
Computer Animation UK

We are currently in the Golden Age of 3D Computer Animation, with familiar characters and stories becoming part of our culture. We now happily flock to the cinema to witness the latest CGI effects in hollywood blockbusters such as the Matrix or The Incredibles. Die-hard technos eagerly await the latest computer games to hit the stores and now even pop music has jumped onto this phenomenon, through groups such as the Gorillaz with music performed through computer animated characters. SET investigates the rise of computer animation throughout the UK.

So how does computer animation work? Is it created with just a piece of software? Well, that is only part of it. Computer-generated television series and feature films are all created by teams of artists and technicians who know how to apply traditional skills to modern technology. Just learning the software is not enough these days; you need training that does not ignore the basic skills of art and performance that employers really look for.

The field of computer animation represents the marriage between art and science; practitioners in this innovative and exciting field need a good understanding of both the creative and the technical processes involved. Computer animation is fun, challenging and creative. It can be used to entertain, sell, communicate and inform. It is used in a wide range of media and is delivered on an ever-increasing range of platforms. Computer animation is fast becoming one of the most rapidly expanding areas of creative endeavour and technical development. Some of the more visible applications of 3D computer animation are seen in animated sequences in feature films and television, digital special effects in feature films, computer games, computer animated simulation rides and interactive virtual environments.

The expansion of the market and the application areas of computer animation are predicted to continue an explosive growth well into the century. This is an exciting, fast changing and rewarding area to be involved with. Well qualified professionals in this area are and will, in the foreseeable future, continue to be in great demand internationally and command substantial rewards.

So, if you have an interest in I.T. Combined with a flair for the creative then why not consider a career in computer animation. There are currently over 35 degree courses running at universities throughout the UK and this is set to rise. The courses vary from technical direction in animation to computer visualisation and animation. Entry requirement usually expect students to have a minimum of 3 A levels, one in a creative subject - preferably graphic design although art and design courses will also be considered - one in a technical subject - such as science, maths or computing - and any other chosen subject.

Be prepared that upon interview students are often expected to bring with them a portfolio of creative drawings, photographs and computer design projects etc.

Naturally, students who have studied creative computer programmes such as graphic design will stand a greater chance of finding a place. However, all students with an ability to show a technical and creative appreciation are considered. Computer Animation therefore is about the student with the full package. Admission tutors are no more interested in the technical boffin with no flair than the artist without any technical know how. A combination of the two and an ability to show this should guarantee you a place.

Computer animation graduates go on to pursue careers in the field of graphics software implementation, film special effects, animation production, multi-media, scientific visualisation, computer game design and many other related fields.

So, next time you admire the special effects in a film or pick up your play station remind yourself of the true heroes behind the product and if you choose to pursue a career in computer animation who knows, the next incredible could be you!

For more advice on studying Computer Animation contact:

The National Centre for Computer Animation http://ncca.bournemouth.ac.uk/

Based at Bournemouth University www.bournemouth.ac.uk

01202 524 111

UCAS

www.ucas.com

0870 112 2211