The potential of animation to convey stories, both expansive and intimate requires the development of the student artist in the principles that govern storytelling, communication, character performance and visual skill, all of which conspire to express a cohesive idea to an audience. We are looking to attract and admit students with a desire to become animation storytellers and performers.
Animation is a unique medium in the Visual and Performance Arts that requires the meticulous construction of all elements, from concept to narrative exposition; the creation of sets, characters, memorable performances and supporting visual effects; and ultimately the final screen presentation.
The creation of these aspects requires keen perceptions of the world with sensitivity, curiosity, analysis, and a passion to communicate in the visual and cinematic medium.
Because students must engage in these aspects of education within the Mohawk Animation Program, we are looking for interest, passion, and potential in the visual disciplines of animation and performance art. To that end, Mohawk College requires evidence of that potential in the submission of an art portfolio to supplement GPA Academic scores in assessing your suitability to our program.
Portfolio Submission
Examples of your work submitted to the Mohawk College Animation program will be evaluated to determine potential aptitude and skills needed to succeed in this program and related industries.
Only submit your very best work, as we are asking for "quality over quantity”.
In our assessment we are looking for potential over expertise.
Your academic GPA will also factor into our admissions requirement as Student success in college requires well developed learning skills and transferable skills, such as: the ability to work independently and to participate in a team, good organizational skills, good work habits, and solid communication skills. It is also beneficial to have competent computer and technical skills.
Portfolio Requirements
(See Instructions below for submission formats and requirements)
Section 1: Drawings from Life (not photographs)
Two (2) drawings of Figures from Life from the list below
- A drawing of a hand
- A self portrait
- A person standing
- A person sitting
One (1) Drawing of a Hard-Surfaced or Mechanical Object from Life, (examples below)
Note: Drawing the object in its 3 dimensions is encouraged to demonstrate your understanding of the object structure
- Chair or bar stool
- Toaster
- A shoe or boot
- Vehicle
Two (2) Environment Drawings
Draw one of these images from direct observation and the other from your imagination. For both images, work freehand with pencil or pen. Avoid using rulers or depicting the subject from a flat perspective; i.e.: one face of a building or one wall of a room. Your drawing should, in some way, express an idea or personal feeling you wish to communicate about the environment you have chosen or the elements within it.
- An interior drawing, the inside of a room of your choice
- An exterior drawing, a location or place you find interesting
Section 2: Drawing from the Imagination
One (1) Character Pose
One drawing of an established animation character in a full body pose that is different from your reference image. (please submit your drawing along with a copy of the original character drawing you worked from)
Section 3: Create a Short Animation
Create a (flipbook) between 24 to 48 drawings using any medium of your choice. If using drawing as your medium, no colour or shading is required. You can also use stop motion or 3D computer animation. Submissions should be converted to a gif (please see instructions here)
Section 4: Personal Work
Please submit up to 3 pieces of your personal work, be sure to include at least 1 sketchbook example that demonstrates your process of designing an image
Section 5: A Personal "Creative Statement" that addresses the questions below:
- Why animation? Please tell us why you wish to pursue the study of animation.
- What do you hope to contribute to the field of animation upon graduation?
- How do you hope to benefit from attending Mohawk College?
- Why did you choose the personal artwork that you submitted? Why did you create this?
