Creative News
Colour is more than just a visual experience; it is a sophisticated language that blends scientific physics with deep emotional psychology. From Sir Isaac Newton’s first spectrum to the harmonious palettes used in modern animation, understanding colour theory is the key to creating visual impact. Whether you are exploring complementary contrasts or the calming effect of analogous hues, join us as we delve into the "Art and Science" of the colour wheel and discover how to wield the power of pigment in your own creative work.
Rotoscoping is the secret behind some of the most fluid and realistic movements in animation history. By tracing over live-action footage frame-by-frame, animators can capture the subtle nuances of human performance while maintaining the magic of hand-drawn art. Whether you are using traditional layers or modern software like After Effects, mastering this technique allows you to bridge the gap between reality and fantasy. Dive into our guide to learn the meticulous process of "unveiling the magic" and how to add your own artistic soul to every traced frame.
Giving your characters a voice is about more than just moving a mouth, it’s about the perfect synchronization of sound and shape. From understanding the core phonemes of speech to mastering the timing of a traditional dope sheet, our beginner’s guide breaks down the essential steps to creating expressive, realistic lip sync. Whether they are speaking or singing, learn the professional techniques that bring your characters to life and make them truly relatable to your audience.
In the world of animation, the difference between a stiff drawing and a living character often comes down to one fundamental principle: Squash and Stretch. By distorting a character’s shape to mimic physics and exaggerate emotion, animators can create a sense of weight and organic fluidity that captivates audiences. From the force of a high-speed landing to the elongation of a joyful laugh, discover why this technique remains the cornerstone of dynamic storytelling and how you can apply it to your own work.
Before the digital revolution, the magic of animation lived on transparent sheets of acetate. Painting animation cels is a labour of love that combines precise brushwork with a deep understanding of colour theory and storytelling. From the initial storyboard to the final hand-painted layer, discover how traditional artists breathe life into characters and why these authentic, "imperfect" masterpieces continue to captivate collectors and fans in a digital world.
2021 Christmas Opening details and a special stop motion animated treat from Super Strange Studios. Have a great Christmas!
For decades, Newplast Plasticine has been the go-to medium for everyone from world-class animators to industrial engineers. Its unique versatility makes it perfect for everything from fine art to stop motion. Dive into the world of "Marvellous Makes" by Super Strange Studios as we share their popular tutorial on how to craft your very own Plasticine snail.
See what Sturley Art had to say about our punched Economy Animation Paper and our ACME 3-pin pegbars in their latest blog post.
Ready to take your painting to the next level? McGuire and Hines Studios have launched an extensive range of video tutorials featuring our Artist Colours. From mastering the 'tools of the trade' to intricate techniques like rendering fur and background rocks, these lessons bring professional studio secrets directly to your work.