THIS IS A ONE-SEMESTER COURSE.

This course will explore the global development of animation, from early visual storytelling traditions to contemporary digital technologies.

Students will examine how animation has evolved across cultures, artistic movements, and usages and will make connections from prehistoric imagery to hand-drawn 2D animation, to stop-motion, to claymation, to 3D computer graphics. They will also analyze influential artists and works—both renowned figures such as Walt Disney and Hayao Miyazaki (director of the 2001 Japanese animated film Spirited Away) and lesser-known innovators whose contributions shaped the field of animation.

Class Meetings: Mondays, 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time
Dates: September 14 – December 14, 2026

Student Expectations: Assignments will emphasize critical thinking through short analytical writing or drawing exercises, strengthening students’ ability to interpret and evaluate visual media within a global historical context.

Student Support: The instructor is available via email.

Feedback/Assessment: The instructor will provide feedback on all homework assignments.

Materials/Supplies: Students will need pencils and paper for this course.