Taxonomy term

What Does Computer Animation Mean?

Computer animation is a subdiscipline of animation and computer graphics. Also called “CGI” (computer-generated imagery or computer-generated imaging), computer animation is created using 2D or 3D computer graphics. Unlike traditional animation, which may involve creating images, objects and environments by hand, just about everything in computer animation requires the use of computers. That said, the curriculum for animation degree programs and computer animation programs is still somewhat similar.

What Does Animation Mean?

Animation has been around since the early 1900s when it was used to create classic animated films such as Humorous Phases of Funny Faces (1906, considered the first example of animation) and The Haunted Hotel (1907). Traditional animation is the process of simulating movement by displaying a series of frames or pictures. In addition to traditional animation, other common types of animation include stop motion (clay animation, puppet animation) and computer animation (2D, 3D). Less common types of animation include sand animation, erasure animation, and pinscreen animation.

What does a Background Painter do? Where does a Background Painter work? ACR takes a look:

About Background Painters

A background painter or “matte painter,” is responsible for creating backgrounds for animated and live-action films. A background painter may create an entire matte painting (such as a village or skyline) where animation or live action occurs in only a few spots. This requires advanced skills in developing 2D and 3D backgrounds.

Degrees Offered:  A. S. Graphic Design; B. S. Computer Animation, Digital Arts and Design, Game Art, Game Design (online only), Game Development (traditional only), Graphic Design (online only), Web Design and Development; M. F. A. Media Design (online only); M. S. Game Design (traditional only)