Author Archives: small world animations

Simon Otto – Character design in “How to train Your Dragon”

I’m a massive fan of both “How to Train Your Dragon” films, mainly because the characters are so well developed, entertaining and believable, and character design and development are an important element in the animation and comics workshops I run.  So I found this interview with Simon Otto, head of character animation at Dreamworks, reallyContinue reading “Simon Otto – Character design in “How to train Your Dragon””

We need to keep arts teaching in state schools!

Rufus Norris, Director of the National Theatre made great arguments for keeping arts teaching in state schools in his recent Guardian opinion piece, here it is if you didn’t see it. Arts are VITAL for children’s development, improving observational skills, lateral thinking/problem solving, fine motor skills, to name only a few benefits. All private schoolsContinue reading “We need to keep arts teaching in state schools!”

February – March Animation Workshops in Teignmouth

Two  Small World events are coming up in February: a one-off animation workshop during half term celebrating the release of the new Aardman film “Early Man”, and an animation club kicking off at Teignmouth library after half term 🙂 “Early Person” Animation Workshop To celebrate the release of “Early Man” come and create and animateContinue reading “February – March Animation Workshops in Teignmouth”

Happy New year from Small World

Having finally emerged from a post-xmas and new year slumber, Small World projects have now started in earnest 🙂 Last week saw the start of The Alice in Wonderland Drama project for magic Carpet in Honiton. I’m helping the guys design and make animal puppets and masks to use in their performance. During the firstContinue reading “Happy New year from Small World”

The Big Draw at TAAG – Programme of Events

TAAG’s “Animated Magic!” Big Draw Event What’s On There’s a whole range of exciting activities taking place between 14-27 October at the Big Draw event at TAAG in Northumberland Place, Teignmouth! This year’s theme is “Living Lines” – aka animation – so come along and watch animations made by local artists and children, and ifContinue reading “The Big Draw at TAAG – Programme of Events”

Announcing the Big Draw in Teignmouth!

The Big Draw at TAAG in Teignmouth is starting on 14 October with exciting exhibitions, screenings and workshops for everyone! Come and make your own animated superhero at the Comics Club animation special, find out how we made the intriguing animated drawings and paintings on show, or make your own box-car chevvy and motor alongContinue reading “Announcing the Big Draw in Teignmouth!”