In order to meet the continuous demand for specialized 3D character animators and the great need for visual effects artists, The Animation Workshop, VIA University College is proposing to run the two training activities 3D Character Animation in the spring and Visual Effects in the fall again in 2017 (3DCA & VFX). 3DCAThe 3DCA course takes the participants through all the components of 3D character animation. Under the supervision of guest teachers who are all international and European animation professionals, the participants are introduced to the Maya software and to 3D character animation through a series of exercises designed to transfer the classical 2D animation principles onto the computer and a 3D platform. Focus will lie on the basic animation principles, body mechanics and physical action during basic training and then move on to the advanced concepts of pantomime acting and dialogue animation. The advanced animation modules are structured as mini-productions. The course will culminate in a 4-week final project, each student’s showreel masterpiece; a 30 seconds animated short film or game intro.VFXThe VFX course is constructed to equip highly creative and dedicated European computer graphics professionals with the knowledge and skills to create photorealistic computer graphics and integrate them seamlessly with live action footage. This will range from set extensions through CG-characters or vehicles to body part replacements and effects simulations such as smoke, debris and water. Participants will work within the industry standards for software. Throughout the course, participants work on their own final project, a short live action scene with integrated CG elements and simulations. At the end, participants will have the opportunity to incorporate their final project into their show reels under the supervision of their guest teacher, and they will then be ready to start to work immediately as junior VFX generalists for film or animation studios.