Bring physical objects to life frame-by-frame. In this hands-on workshop, animator Brennan Bova guides you through the fundamentals of tactile clay stop-motion animation, bridging physical sculpting with cinematic movement.

You will sculpt your own custom clay character, set up overhead camera rigs, and animate a short stop-motion cartoon sequence in a collaborative studio environment. Walk away with a physical clay character, a finished digital video file of your animation, and materials to continue creating stop-motion at home.

Workshop Rundown

Phase 1: Character Sculpting & Rigging

Sculpt an original, posable clay character designed for stop-motion. Learn how to build simple internal structures and shapes that hold up during frame-by-frame manipulation.

Phase 2: Camera Setup & Frame Capture

Set up table-mounted camera rigs and lighting stations. Learn frame capture software basics, onion-skinning, and how to maintain consistent lighting and camera positioning.

Phase 3: Animation & Video Export

Animate your character frame-by-frame, exploring weight, timing, and expressive physical performance. Export your completed stop-motion cartoon as a shareable video file.

By The End Of This Workshop, You Will:

• Sculpt a posable clay character designed specifically for stop-motion animation.
• Set up and operate overhead camera rigs, lighting, and frame-capture setups.
• Understand timing, spacing, and physical object manipulation in stop-motion.
• Leave with a completed digital video file, your clay character, and supplies to continue at home.

What We Provide

• Materials Included: Clay, sculpting tools, overhead camera arms, and lighting stations are provided.
• Take-Home Kit: Includes leftover materials and your custom clay character so you can keep animating at home.

What To Bring & Requirements

• Smartphone/Device: Optional. Bring a smartphone or tablet if you wish to use your own capture device.

Event Details

• Dates: To be announced
• Format: 1 single session · 3 hours
• Location: Urban Art Collective Art Hub, 50 Bayswater Avenue, Ottawa
• Instructor: Brennan Bova
• Level: All Levels
• Maximum Capacity: 10 students
• Minimum Enrolment: 6 students required